Tapion Sulka’s long-time executive director and coach, one of Finland’s top badminton players of the 1990s, Lasse Lindelöf, has passed away after a serious illness. Tapion Sulka mourns Lasse's energetic and joyful presence. Tapion Sulka ry extends its warm condolences to Lasse’s family and loved ones.
Lasse began playing badminton in 1979. He entered his first competition only at the age of 12. His first Finnish Championship title came in mixed doubles at the age of 17 in 1985. Altogether, alongside four mixed doubles national titles, he also won two men’s doubles championships.
Lasse was one of the absolute leading figures in Finnish badminton during the 1990s. He was a key link in the legendary team that took Finland’s men’s squad to the Thomas Cup finals in Jakarta in 1994. Over the course of his career, Lasse represented Finland in a total of 79 international matches. His trademark was quick and light footwork, which seemed to happen almost effortlessly. In Sulkapallo magazine, he was nicknamed “the weasel.”
Lasse began his coaching career in 1993, working at many levels from juniors to elite players. In 2012, he was appointed executive director of Tapion Sulka. Through his work and charisma, he supported the club’s growth into what it is today.
Lasse’s contribution to the club and its spirit was immense. He coached hundreds of current and former Tapion Sulka hobbyists and top players, igniting in them a deep passion for badminton and supporting their journeys to the highest level of the sport. In Lasse’s chest beat one of the greatest Tapion Sulka hearts.
