Meet Janik Beichler, winner of a trip for two to the Champions Hockey League Final in Oulu, Finland.
by Derek O'Brien
During the Semi-Finals, we had a contest to win a trip for two to the Champions Hockey League Final. In Wednesday's episode of CHL Centre Ice, Janik Beichler of Duisburg, Germany was selected as the winner.
As Duisberg is close to Dusseldorf, Janik is a fan of Dusseldorfer EG, and he also supports the Vancouver Canucks and Colorado Avalanche in the NHL.
It's clear from the teams he supports and from his photo, in which he sports a jersey of the Western Hockey League's Prince George Cougars, that he's a fan of hockey worldwide.
“I spent a high school year in Prince George (2013–14), so that's how I became a Cougars fan.” the 19-year-old proudly says. “I've always been a fan (of hockey) but didn't get to play myself until I was in Canada in 2013. I started playing there and still do as a hobby.”
And as a fan of hockey in different countries, he's sure excited to have won a trip to the game that will determine the club hockey championship of Europe.
“When I found the email in my inbox, I couldn't believe it. Now I'm super excited to go! I've never been to Finland and never as far north as Oulu. I'm just a huge hockey fan and can't wait to see Europe's best teams face off against each other!”
And between Karpat Oulu and Frolunda Gothenburg, currently the first-placed teams in the Finnish and Swedish leagues, respectively, who would Janik like to see win?
“I'll be cheering for the home team! Karpat seem pretty much unbeatable with Sami Aittokallio in net. Plus, they kicked Dusseldorfer EG out of the tournament!” he said, referring to the meeting between the teams in the Round of 32 in which Aittokallio recorded back-to-back shutouts.
And as it's a trip for two, Janik gets to take someone with him. So who's the lucky person?
“My best friend Dean. He's never been to a hockey game, so it will be an amazing experience for him as well!”
Congratulations to Janik and Dean. Enjoy your trip to Oulu and a great hockey game!