Finnish forward Antti Miettinen, whose career spanned the NHL and top leagues in Finland, Russia, Germany and Switzerland, today announced his retirement from the club he began his career with, HPK.

After starting with HPK’s junior teams, and some prime showings with the national team, Miettinen was a late draft pick of the Dallas Stars in 2000, spending three seasons in Dallas, three in Minnesota, and two in Winnipeg. Miettinen returned to Europe for good after limited NHL play, spending parts of seasons with Ak Bars Kazan, HC Fribourg and Eisbären Berlin, before returning for one last season with HPK.

Internationally, Miettinen first suited up for the senior Leijonat squad at the 2002 World Championships, joining the team for six World Championships and the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. Miettinen was also named to the 2006 Olympic team that won silver, but missed the tournament due to injury, still being awarded a silver medal. Miettinen won another silver at the 2007 Worlds, as well as a pair of bronzes from the 2010 Olympics and 2006 Worlds.

Miettinen won his first IHLC on the Euro Hockey Tour in 2002, winning the title again at the 2003 and 2006 Worlds, and lastly at the 2010 Olympics. We wish Antti and his family the very best for his retirement and the things to come!

Photo Credit: Flickr – IIHF – HHOF – IOC