AIK Hockey has appointed 37-year-old Viktor Tuurala as its new head coach for the men's team, with a contract running through the 2027/2028 season. Tuurala returns to Stockholm after leading Kalmar HC to second place in Hockeyallsvenskan's regular season and earning the league's coach of the year award. The club views his hiring as a key step in its future plans.
AIK Hockey announced on Monday that Viktor Tuurala will take over as head coach. The 37-year-old has signed a deal extending to the end of the 2027/2028 season. Tuurala expressed excitement about returning home, telling the club's website: “I feel damn good right now... This is home. When an opportunity comes to come home, it's something you really want to seize. You don't just want to be ready; you want to be overprepared. These chances don't come often.” He emphasized building a team identity rooted in hard work and mental toughness, aiming for fans at Hovet to immediately recognize “this is AIK Hockey, this is Gnaget, this is for real.” Sport director Lasse Johansson praised the hire, saying Tuurala brings a clear playing style, strong drive, and the ability to develop teams and players while fostering a winning culture. Johan Andersson steps down as head coach but remains under contract; sources indicate he will become one of Tuurala's assistants alongside Mattias 'Puh' Persson Ulvegård. Tuurala joins a team that finished fifth last season and exited in the quarterfinals. His track record includes elevating Kalmar from Hockeyettan to second in Hockeyallsvenskan with an effective offensive style and strong leadership.