Teemu Selanne, born on July 3, 1970, in Helsinki, Finland, was destined for greatness from a young age. Growing up in Finland, he quickly fell in love with the game of hockey and began playing at a young age. His natural talent and dedication to the sport quickly caught the attention of scouts, and he was soon on his way to a professional career in the NHL.
Selanne began his professional career playing in the Finnish Elite League before making the jump to the NHL. He made an immediate impact in the league, scoring an impressive 76 goals and tallying 132 points during his rookie season in 1992-1993. This incredible performance earned him the nickname "The Finnish Flash" and solidified his place as one of the league's top players.
Throughout his career, Selanne continued to be a prolific scorer, racking up an impressive 684 goals and 1457 points in 1451 games. He was known for his speed, skill, and scoring ability, making him a formidable opponent on the ice. In 2007, Selanne helped lead the Anaheim Mighty Ducks to a Stanley Cup Championship, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in NHL history.
Off the ice, Selanne is a devoted family man. He married Sirpa Vuorinen in 1996, and together they have four children - three sons named Eemil, Eetu, and Leevi, and a daughter named Veera. Despite his busy schedule as a professional athlete, Selanne always made time for his family and placed a high priority on spending quality time with his loved ones.
In 2013, Selanne became the oldest active player in the NHL and the last one drafted in the 1980s. Despite his age, he continued to be a dominant force on the ice, proving that skill and dedication can transcend age. However, in 2014, Selanne announced his retirement from professional hockey, ending a remarkable career that spanned over two decades.
Teemu Selanne will forever be remembered as a legend of the game, a true ambassador for hockey, and a beloved figure both on and off the ice.
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