Joni Knuutinen

HPS, Head of Coaching

We worked with Joni through a four-session observation package. The goal was to make his coaching patterns visible and to build peak experiences in training systematically through playfulness.

Coaches already have a great deal of knowledge about coaching, and information is constantly becoming more accessible. A good coach stands out by being able to communicate skillfully, in an engaging way, and in a manner that takes the players' age into account. Many coaches know a lot about the sport itself, but in my view they could achieve even greater impact through more skillful interaction.

During the training, I realized that my own behavior—especially my nonverbal communication (how I stand, how I use my hands, etc.)—began to influence the players' energy levels. An enthusiastic coach clearly gets much more attention. I now use my choice of words and phrases more deliberately and communicate more clearly through them. As a result, communication has become clearer and players grasp more quickly what they are expected to learn.

What especially stayed with me from the final training session was the emphasis on bringing playfulness into every part of the practice. I succeeded in "lifting" the atmosphere of the games to a level that felt exceptionally positive, visible as strong engagement and effort during play. The players played as if it were the final of the Champions League and, above all, genuinely enjoyed what they were doing.

A coach's skillful interaction (both verbal and nonverbal) has a significant impact on players' energy levels and learning. This has been discussed before, of course, but the training provided concrete tools for creating peak experiences and meaningful training environments for players.

Ilpo "Ile" Verno

Head Coach, HPS boys born in 2013

We worked with Ile for about a year. The goal was to review his coaching style holistically, create peak experiences through it, and transfer the key learnings to the wider coaching team.

I coach HPS boys born in 2013, and previously I felt that both our training sessions and matches had a certain atmosphere—one that could be described as "doing what is necessary." In addition, some players did not dare to challenge more advanced players. I wanted to create a more energetic and dynamic environment where development is a core value, because that is essential if players are to progress toward higher levels.

I have a long background as a player and have coached for quite some time, so I feel confident in my understanding of football theory. Our Head of Coaching suggested that I meet with Mirko Kareinen, as he had discussed with him before and had become interested in Mirko's expertise. I myself was also seeking ideas to develop my coaching. Already in our first conversation, Mirko helped me understand that coaching is not only about what you say, but above all about how you say it.

We started a project that lasted almost a year, focusing on facial expressions, word choices, and vocal emphasis that support coaching situations. Mirko observed training sessions and matches, and the discussions afterward—where we went through his observations—were particularly valuable. Together, we built a concrete structure and approach for how different aspects should be emphasized in training.

The results were clearly visible: the atmosphere in training became more energetic and dynamic, and I gained clear tools for addressing situations on the field in the right way. Mirko's expertise and practical guidance have been extremely valuable. I warmly recommend Mirko to anyone who wants to develop their coaching communication and create a positive, goal-oriented environment within their team.

Jesse Mertanen

Vitical Esports, Partnerships

We worked with Jesse when Coaching Spot was involved in esports operations. We supported esports players both in their game performance and in the everyday factors around performance.

We have been cooperating with Mirko for 3-4 months now and I am really satisfied with the cooperation between us. Things are handled honestly and as agreed and when discussing things, the conversation is genuine and both parties are able to ask questions and discuss their issues openly and in a good mood.

The conversation doesn't even have to be weekly, we have even gone a month without contacting others, but as soon as the matter comes up, just send a message and the meeting can be arranged very easily and things will be taken care of again without any problems.

You also learn a lot when talking with Mirko, and his way of dealing with things is really clear and understandable, and it also affects the outcome of things positively. I am already really satisfied with our current cooperation and I expect it to continue for a long time!

Riksa

Enhanced Esports, eSports player

We worked with Riksa for nearly two years as both a mental performance coach and a player agent. Our goal was to support him holistically in both performance and contract-related matters.

Mirko has been a really important factor in the development of my playing career.

In addition to handling all kinds of contract negotiations first-class, Mirko has also acted as a problem solver in various in-game as well as external challenges.

I have learned from him, among other things, leadership skills, new thought patterns and in general how the mind works and how to control it.

Jonathan Samson

Coaching Spot Oy, Employee

Jonathan worked at Coaching Spot Oy for about a year while Mirko was part of the Neuro Change Institute. His role was to lead the first conversations with prospective coaches and assess their fit for the team. 

It was an amazing experience working with Mirko Kareinen. He is a very talented and focused person with his work.

I had learnt a lot while working with him. He knows his strengths and also knows how he can handle his challenges. Whenever there was a challenging situation he faced it with calmness and he has got enough skills to overcome the hurdles. He always remains positive.

I wish him best of luck in the future. I do wish to work with him again!

Miikka Kareinen

Westend Indians, #23, Athlete

We supported Miikka as a mental performance coach for nearly two years. The work covered both life and sport—helping him bring out the best version of himself.

Mirko is an insightful, thought-provoking and reliable coach.

I feel the key ability in Mirko is to challenge you in a comfortable way - I have been able to pinpoint blindspots in my own mental schemes throughout our journey.

Mirko is very attentive, good listener, able to hear and see also the things between-lines and/or unspoken ones. Would recommend 100% Mirko for similar positions!!

Alexia Muzin

Neuro Change Institute®, Team member

We mentored Alexia during the Neuro Change Institute period. The goal was to support her in starting her business, training as a mental performance coach, and building her own client base.

I'm so glad to have Mirko's support every week as his client! As a coach, he is always giving me new perspectives & practical solutions on my problematics.

The support I gain from him is amazing and every week I'm looking forward to have our session. He knows how to listen, to motivate me when I'm down but also to create a safe space for me to open up without being afraid of being judged. I feel I can tell him everything, really!

I also love the fact that he is sharing his personal stories when appropriate. Thank you Mirko for being an amazing coach & human being.