As an ice hockey fan, I have often wondered how sports clubs could help players adjust to life in Finland. Or is integration entirely the player's own responsibility? Clubs run their operations professionally as limited companies, but is the focus so entirely on sports under the assumption that the player will ask if they need something?
As in other businesses, salaries make up the largest chunk of the budget, as teams invest a significant amount of money in a foreign player's salary. But what would be the result if they also invested in developing the player's other skills, such as language proficiency? Would the investment reflect on the playing field as well?
Since an athlete's daily routine revolves around sports all year round, clubs could naturally offer digital learning materials to their players, ensuring that study is not bound to a specific time or place. At the same time, the club would invest in the athlete's life after their sports career, easing their transition into working life. Training would also provide a good balance and meaningful activities for free time. But how to handle situations when the player also has a family—their home support team?
The home team plays a vital role during a sports career, as they are the ones taking care of daily life so the player can fully focus on their performance. In my opinion, they should by no means be forgotten. Could the solution be to offer them the opportunity to learn the language as well? For instance, educational games could be provided for children to play at home together with their parents. At the same time, parents would learn the language while engaging with their child.
An athlete is an employee in a company, and companies strive to help employees adjust to life in Finland by offering language training among other things. So why not invest more in a player's adaptation too? I think this comes down to assumptions and perceptions. It is assumed that the only way to receive language training is to hire an instructor on-site at a specific time and location. However, the internet offers many options that serve as great alternatives to traditional training. A trainer can be met online from one's own computer without needing to book separate rooms. Efficient, isn't it? And language skill development doesn't have to be limited to foreign players—clubs could offer language training to domestic players too. Utilizing digital materials makes training cost-effective as well.
Language development is long-term work and above all requires 1. motivation, 2. goals, and 3. tracking. Digital materials can offer versatile tools so that these three aspects are achieved.
Antti Arhio
Sales & Customer Support
