“I have to tell the cancer not to visit me again”

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Blick: Antti Törmänen, how are you?
Antti Törmanen: On the one hand, I’m disappointed because we could be the ones celebrating now. Little was missing. On the other hand, I am also very proud that we have come this far, to a seventh final match.

What ultimately made the difference?
In that last match, Servette’s key players were slightly better than our key players. And we just gave away the first goal we conceded.

How have you personally managed to get through this intense playoff phase despite the recent cancer diagnosis?
I received so much support from my staff and the players. It was not possible for me to be with the team all the time because I had my treatment days. But I always had the full support of the whole organization – it was great! Sports director Martin Steinegger did a great job when he had to replace me on the boards and my absence didn’t have a negative impact on the players either. No one ever complained. It makes me very proud to work with such characters.

But where did you get the energy from?
From the squad. She has always helped me free myself from the thought that I am seriously ill. This is my way of processing and that’s why it’s always a happy moment for me when I can be here.

How emotional have the past few weeks been for you?
They were very special and in between I was also sad. I would also like to take the opportunity to apologize for not giving interviews during this time as this is actually one of the trainer’s duties. But I had to protect myself a little bit.

There were many emotional messages from other coaches, players and fans. Have you noticed all this?
Yes, of course, that made me very happy and also moved. It’s not just me, every time I go to the hospital for treatment, I see a lot of people suffering. I hope I can show through my example that if you have cancer or any other serious illness you should fight and never give up.

You were often seen smiling at the gang. It looked like you really enjoyed these playoffs.
True. Ice hockey and sports in general give people a lot of emotions that make them forget about their worries at home, at work or anywhere. And of course I really enjoy it if I can be a part of that.

Is it possible for you to be Biel’s coach next season because of your health situation?
We haven’t talked about that yet and I haven’t thought too much about it either. A big competition is about to start for me and I absolutely want to come out on top. I have to tell the cancer to stop visiting me and that I don’t want more visitors like that in my body.

What are your plans for the coming weeks? Is it possible for you to go to your native Finland?
No, that is not possible and if so, then only for a short period of two weeks. I am undergoing treatment, we are in the middle of chemotherapy. We started three weeks ago and it will continue for a long time. The next appointment is Friday morning in Lausanne.

Does it make it even harder for you because you’ve had cancer before, or does that experience make it a little easier?
I can’t say that. On the one hand, it’s easier because I know what to expect. But on the other hand, it’s also harder because I know what to expect. Either way, it’s going to be a fight.

Source : Blick