Story Summary
Vaasan Sport will retire the number of club stalwart Erik Riska when the team hosts HPK on 14 November. The club announced during the first commercial break of Wednesday’s game that Riska’s No. 13 will be withdrawn from use for that home fixture. Riska, who ended his playing career in spring 2024, spent Sport’s entire current Liiga era with the club and holds the team record for appearances with 699 games. The 37-year-old also played 51 games for Lukko in the 2013-14 season. At Sport, Riska was part of the captaincy group in 11 seasons, serving as captain for seven and alternate captain for four.
Key Facts
- Vaasan Sport will retire Erik Riska’s No. 13 on 14 November in the home game against HPK.
- The club announced the number retirement during the first commercial break of Wednesday’s game.
- Erik Riska retired from playing in spring 2024.
- Riska played 699 games for Sport, the most in the club’s history.
- He also played 51 games for Lukko in the 2013-14 season.
- Riska is 37 years old and was in Sport’s leadership group for 11 seasons (captain seven seasons, alternate captain four seasons).
- Sport has previously retired the numbers of Tomi Väkelä (27) and Håkan Hjerpe (29). Sami Laaksoharju’s No. 14 has been removed from use in his memory.
IHM Discussion
Retiring a player’s number is one of the clearest gestures a club can make to acknowledge sustained contribution. The decision to withdraw Erik Riska’s No. 13 recognises both longevity and leadership: he is Sport’s all-time appearance leader and was part of the club’s captaincy group for 11 seasons. Staging the tribute at a home game gives supporters an opportunity to recognise a player whose career was closely tied to Sport’s current Liiga era.
Why It Matters
The move cements Riska’s place in Sport’s history and gives supporters a focal point to celebrate his contribution across the club’s current Liiga era. For younger players and fans, it is a tangible reminder of long-term commitment and leadership within one organisation.
Mini Q&A
When will Erik Riska’s number be retired?
Riska’s No. 13 will be retired on 14 November during Vaasan Sport’s home game against HPK.
Which number is being retired?
Vaasan Sport will retire number 13.
When did Erik Riska retire from playing?
Erik Riska ended his playing career in spring 2024.
How many games did Riska play for Sport?
Riska played 699 games for Vaasan Sport, the most in the club’s history.
Did Riska play for any other Liiga club?
Yes. Riska played 51 games for Lukko in the 2013-14 season.
What was Riska’s role in the team?
Riska was in Sport’s captaincy group for 11 seasons, serving as captain for seven seasons and as an alternate captain for four.
What Comes Next
Sport will retire Riska’s No. 13 during its home game against HPK on 14 November.