From Nashville Predators On SI · · 2m
Pekka Rinne's Hall of Fame Speech
Hockey legend Pekka Rinne shares his journey from Finnish small town to NHL Hall of Fame.
In brief
Hockey legend Pekka Rinne shares his journey from Finnish small town to NHL Hall of Fame. Pekka Rinne, a Finnish-born NHL goaltender, became the fourth Finnish player inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame after a 15-year career with the Nashville Predators. Originally reported by Nashville Predators On SI.
Pekka Rinne Inducted
Goaltender Pekka Rinne became the fourth Nashville Predators player inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame on Monday.
Rinne's Career Stats
Rinne played 683 games for the Predators across his 15-year career, winning 369 with 60 shutouts.
Awards and Achievements
Rinne won the Vezina Trophy in 2018, the King Clancy Trophy in 2021, and led the Predators to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2017.
Rinne's Hall of Fame Speech
Rinne delivered a speech thanking his family, coaches, and teammates for their support throughout his career.
“Wow, thank you. Thank you, David. That man had a pretty big impact on my career.”
Early Life in Finland
Growing up in Kempele, a small town in Northern Finland, Rinne's idol was his cousin Jari, a goalie.
Junior Hockey Struggles
Rinne's junior career wasn't successful; he was tall and uncoordinated, playing in a lower-level league.
Coaching Turnaround
Coach Harri Hautamäki convinced Rinne to continue playing hockey and move to Kärpät, a higher-level team.
Early NHL Draft
Rinne was drafted by Nashville in 2004 in the eighth round, 258th overall, after being overlooked.
Nashville Predators Career
Rinne signed his first contract with Nashville Predators in August 2005, starting a 16-year career with the organization.
Nashville as Home
Nashville became Rinne's second home, giving him community, lifelong friendships, and cherished memories.
Key Mentions
Rinne thanked David Poile for believing in him and changing his life, and his three head coaches, Trotz, Lavy, and Hynes.
Honoring Deceased
Rinne honored his agent Jay Grossman, who passed away in March, and former coach Brent Peterson, who passed away in September.
Finnish Hockey Legacy
Rinne highlighted Finland's hockey legacy, naming players like Kurri, Selänne, and Numminen as role models.
Family and Support
Rinne thanked his parents, sisters, and children for their unwavering support throughout his career.
Message to Young Athletes
Rinne encouraged young athletes to follow their passion, embrace setbacks, and never give up on their dreams.
“You don't have to be the most highly touted prospect. You don't have to have everything figured out when you're young.”
Final Thanks
Rinne shared the honor with everyone who supported him, including his family, teammates, coaches, and fans.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Here's the gist
Pekka Rinne, a Finnish-born NHL goaltender, became the fourth Finnish player inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame after a 15-year career with the Nashville Predators.
