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The Sheffield Steelers are delighted to confirm that forward Mikko Juusola has signed a new contract with the club ahead of the 2026–27 Elite League season.
The popular Finnish forward will now enter his fourth season in Sheffield after becoming a key part of the Steelers line-up since arriving ahead of the club’s historic Grand Slam campaign in 2023–24.
Since joining the Steelers, Juusola has played 208 games in league, Challenge Cup, Play Off and Champions Hockey League competition, scoring an impressive 75 goals and 180 points.
A fan favourite at the Utilita Arena, Mikko’s pace, skill and work ethic have made him one of the most exciting forwards in the Elite League.
Head Coach Aaron Fox was delighted to secure Juusola’s return for another season.
“Getting Mikko back was a priority for our group,” said Fox.
“He’s a player we rely on in all situations and someone who can play a top-six role on either wing.
“Mikko was huge for us on the penalty kill last season and can play multiple spots on the power play as well.
“He battled through some injuries early in the year, but once he got healthy I thought he had a great second half of the season and became one of our most consistent players again.
“We know he can completely change the dynamic of a game with his skating ability, and over the last three years he’s produced some big offensive numbers for us.
“I still think he’s at a great age and I expect him to have a big bounce-back season and be a guy capable of scoring 25 to 30 goals again.
“As always, I’m really looking forward to having him back in orange.”
Before arriving in Sheffield, Juusola had spent almost his entire professional career in Finland, apart from a short spell in Czechia with HC Energie Karlovy Vary in 2023.
Mikko arrived in Sheffield with experience in both Liiga and Mestis, having played 178 games in Finland between 2018 and 2022, and he immediately made an impact with the Steelers during the club’s Grand Slam-winning season, scoring 24 goals and 50 points in just 58 games.
He also impressed on the European stage in the Champions Hockey League, recording 3 goals and 5 points in 8 games against some of the top teams in Europe.
Speaking from his home in Finland, Juusola said returning to Sheffield was an easy decision.
“It was an easy choice to come back for a fourth season. Sheffield feels like my second home and the Steelers are like my second family.
“I love playing in Sheffield, playing at the Arena and in front of the incredible Steelers fans who have always made me feel so welcome and appreciated.
“After the last two seasons without silverware, I think we all feel we owe the fans success again. I know myself and my teammates will do everything we can to bring more trophies back to Sheffield.”
