Introduction
The 2025 season was a landmark year for FC LeKi. Against considerable challenges, our team demonstrated resilience, determination and collective effort, culminating in a successful promotion to Kolmonen.
This achievement reflects the hard work of our players, staff and the wider FC LeKi community.
1) Pre-Season and Early Challenges
Our preparation period was long and demanding. The winter was difficult, and our pre-season did not unfold as smoothly as hoped. Nonetheless, our technical staff introduced an intensive training programme that pushed players beyond previous limits. For many, this level of commitment and professionalism was new, but it laid the groundwork for fewer injuries and better fitness throughout the season.
Friendly matches served primarily as opportunities to monitor fitness levels and team dynamics rather than results. By contrast, the Suomen Cup provided a vital testing ground. The board had set a realistic target of reaching the third round, balancing ambition with our limited squad size and the approaching league campaign.
That objective was met, and our players' performances in the Cup gave the group confidence and strengthened team spirit.
2) Season Highlights
- Champions of Nelonen Pirkanmaa. FC LeKi secured first place and the league title, earning promotion to Kolmonen.
- Suomen Cup achievement. The club met its target of reaching the third round, showing resilience against tough opposition.
- Top scorer of the Suomen Cup 2025. Our very own Vili Vaittinen earned national recognition by finishing as the top scorer of the entire competition with an outstanding 13 goals, an extraordinary accomplishment that brought pride to our club and to Pirkanmaa football.
3) Lessons in Management
Despite the successes on the field, we also faced challenges off it. As a club with new leadership, we encountered some of the realities of lower-league football in Finland.
While the club's guiding principle has always been 100% commitment, not all players consistently met this standard. In some cases this led to disciplinary action, including the release of players who failed to respect the values of FC LeKi or the authority of the coaching staff.
In addition to sporting challenges, the club also had to manage unexpected financial burdens. Several unforeseen bills placed extra strain on our limited resources, reminding us of the importance of careful budgeting, transparent communication and forward planning. These experiences provided valuable lessons for the administration and underlined the need for sustainable structures going forward.
4) Decisions for the 2026 Season in Kolmonen
The Board of Directors has agreed on the following measures:
- 1. Equal responsibility for all players. Every player, whether new or returning, will contribute equally to the costs of participation. Each player pays an annual club fee of €450: €200 (training facilities), €150 (home and away jerseys and socks) and €100 (tracksuit).
- 2. Self-management of registration and insurance. Each player is responsible for his own registration and insurance through the Palloliitto (Finnish FA).
- 3. Merit-based selection. Payment of the club fee does not guarantee playing time. Team selection will always be based on performance, discipline and commitment to FC LeKi's values.
5) Club Identity and Values
FC LeKi is more than a football team. We are a community built on commitment, respect, teamwork and ambition. Every player, coach and volunteer is expected to embody these values, so that our club grows not only in sporting success but also in character.
6) Role in the Community
As a club deeply rooted in Lempäälä, we are proud to contribute to the sporting culture of the region. Football is not only about winning matches but about creating opportunities for young people, strengthening local identity and offering positive pathways for development. FC LeKi is committed to continuing this role as a reliable and ambitious community partner.
7) Player Development
One of FC LeKi's central missions is to develop players and provide opportunities for growth. Our focus is on building individuals who are physically strong, tactically intelligent and mentally resilient. For some, FC LeKi is a stepping stone to higher levels of football; for others, it is a lifelong home. In both cases, we are committed to supporting our players' journeys.
8) Gratitude and Acknowledgements
The Board of Directors wishes to express its sincere gratitude to all who contributed to this season's success. Our players, coaching staff and volunteers devoted their time and energy with passion. Our supporters gave encouragement in moments both difficult and triumphant.
We extend a special thank you to the City of Lempäälä and the City of Vesilahti for providing training and match facilities. We also warmly thank LeKi-futis for their invaluable support during the winter months through the use of indoor facilities and booking time. Without these partnerships, our progress would not have been possible.
Finally, we recognise the families of our players, whose patience and support enable their loved ones to give so much to the club. Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed.
9) Vision and Long-Term Goals
Promotion to Kolmonen is an important step, but it is not the destination. FC LeKi's long-term vision is ambitious: to become the number one club in Scandinavia. This bold goal will not be achieved overnight, but through consistent effort, strong values, disciplined management and the gradual building of infrastructure. Every decision made today, from youth development to financial discipline, is taken with this vision in mind.
10) Call to Action
We invite everyone who shares our journey to join us:
- Players who want to develop and commit.
- Supporters whose voices inspire us.
- Families who stand behind our players.
- Sponsors and partners who share our vision and want to grow alongside us.
- Volunteers without whom the club cannot function.
Together, we made history in 2025. Together, we will build a future where FC LeKi is not only a respected name in Pirkanmaa, but a force in Finnish and Scandinavian football.
On behalf of the Board of Directors of FC LeKi
September 2025