André Smulter Appointed Assistant Coach and Strength Coach

H.C. Tochigi Nikko IceBucks is pleased to announce that André Smulter has been appointed as Assistant Coach and Strength Coach, effective from the 2026-2027 season. Mr. Smulter is well-versed in training theories and development methods cultivated in Finland, and possesses high expertise in the fields of physical strengthening and conditioning. In modern ice hockey, in addition to skills and tactics, building a body that can endure a full season has become extremely important. With this appointment, the team will incorporate Finnish-style training to enhance players' physical strength, prevent injuries, and improve conditioning, aiming to elevate the overall level of the team. Furthermore, as an Assistant Coach, he will support Head Coach Jaronen and play a crucial role in the daily strengthening of the team. The club has high expectations for him as an indispensable figure in its pursuit of the championship. Details are as follows: ■ André Smulter Date of Birth: May 1, 1979 Place of Birth: Finland Playing Career: Sport (I-divisioona) → Kalmar HC (Division 2) → Hudiksvalls HC (Division 1) → Sport (Mestis) → Bergen (Norway) → Ritten/Renon (Italy) → Nordic Vikings (Asia League) → Gislaveds SK (Division 1) → Sport (Mestis) → IF Troja-Ljungby (Division 1) → Milton Keynes Lightning (EPIHL) → Gislaveds SK “C” (Division 1) → Muik Hockey (Suomi-sarja) → IFK Lepplax (II-divisioona) → Osby IK (Division 3) National Team Career: 1996-1997 U-18 Finland National Team 　　　　1997-1998 U-19 Finland National Team 　　　　1998-1999 U-20 Finland National Team Coaching Career: 2013-2018 Muik Hockey, Player-Coach 　　　　　2018-2019 IFK Lepplax, Player-Coach 　　　　　2019-2023 Boro/Vetlanda HC, Head Coach 　　　　　2023-2025 Brödernas/Väsvy, Assistant Coach 　　　　　2025-2026 Väsby IK, Assistant Coach, Head Coach, Sports Manager 　　　　　2026- H.C. Tochigi Nikko IceBucks, Assistant Coach, Strength Coach "I'm very excited and honoured to have given the opportunity to work in a traditional and great club like Nikko IceBucks. I'm going to do everything in my power to help the team to be successful and I'm looking forward to meet all the fans and people around the club!"