AC Oulu Volley reaches finals in debut season with upset over championship favourite

Finnish volleyball club AC Oulu Volley has advanced to the national league finals in its first top-tier season after defeating preseason favourite Akaa Volley 4–2 in the semifinals, Yle reports.

The underdog team, competing in the top division for the first time, will now face Hurrikaani Loimaa in the best-of-seven championship series starting Sunday. A victory would mark the first time since 2002 that a newly promoted team has reached the men’s league finals.

Head coach Sami Kurttila, a three-time Finnish champion, described the achievement as part of an ongoing “journey of discovery” for the young squad. “The atmosphere is hectic right now,” he said, adding that the team had adjusted its playing style to counter Akaa’s strengths while better suiting its own offensive approach.

AC Oulu secured its league spot last season after acquiring Oulu Kisko’s position in the second division, then unexpectedly gained promotion when Karelian Hurmos withdrew. Though analysts predicted the team could challenge top sides in individual matches, its run to the finals has exceeded expectations.

Standout performers include setters Lasse Jäntti and 17-year-old Eeli Kuukasjärvi, alongside top scorer Samuel Jackman and versatile veteran Jan Helenius. Kurttila praised the team’s construction but noted the focus remains on the upcoming series: “We’re stepping onto new ground again, and the players are on their own internal journey—this is a great situation.”

The last newly promoted finalist, Perungan Pojat in 2002, finished as runner-up. Kokkolan Tiikerit’s 2013 championship—just one year after earning promotion—offers another parallel for AC Oulu’s surprise campaign.

Tags: volleyball, finland, sports