TAMPERE - FINLAND. After weeks of speculation and turmoil, Tappara have appointed a new head coach. As reported on Pro Hockey News previously, the interim head coach, Sami Hirvonen, has been appointed as the head coach for the up and coming season.

Hirvonen's appointment comes after the previous head Petri Mattila resigned two weeks ago. Hirvonen served as Mattila's assistant coach before the resignation and has since acted as the interim head coach.

Hirvonen's contract covers this season and has an option for the 2011-2012 season.

"Sami was our strongest candidate from the start," said Tappara's General Manager, Mikko Leinonen in a statement. "We wanted to explore other options as well before making the final decision. We believe that we have made the best choice by hiring Sami."

Prior to joining Tappara, Hirvonen was the head coach to Mestis team LeKi. Mestis is the second highest tier of hockey in Finland. In his last season with LeKi, Hirvonen lead the team to the quarterfinals of the Mestis play-offs. Prior to his role at LeKi, Hirvonen was the head coach of local rivals' Ilves Junior A team.

Contact janne.virtanen@prohockeynews.com