"I always knew where I was going eventually, so it helped me to stay at home for three years. It helped me to develop my game. But it also helped me off the ice. Life here is way different, and I was able to get older"

In this quote, Saku Koivu reviews his choice to remain at home for 3 years instead of instantly pursuing his hockey profession. He discusses that this choice eventually helped him in both his game and his individual life. By remaining at home, Koivu was able to concentrate on developing his skills and becoming a much better player. However, he likewise acknowledges that this time enabled him to grow and grow as a person. Koivu recognizes that life in his home country is greatly different from the fast-paced world of expert hockey, and this time at home permitted him to change and end up being more ready for the challenges ahead. In general, Koivu's choice to stay at home for 3 years had a positive effect on both his athletic abilities and his personal development.