Peter Åslin, Swedish ice hockey player (b. 1962)
Peter Karl Åslin, born on September 21, 1962, and sadly passed away on January 19, 2012, was a highly celebrated Swedish national ice hockey goaltender. Renowned for his exceptional skills and crucial saves between the pipes, Åslin's career spanned a significant period, during which he consistently represented Sweden on the international stage, earning him a revered place in Swedish hockey history.
His international career began with an immediate and remarkable triumph. Åslin was a pivotal member of the Swedish national junior team that clinched the gold medal at the 1981 IIHF World U20 Championship. This victory was particularly historic, as it marked Sweden's only gold medal at the World Junior Championship for an astonishing 31 years, a drought that was finally broken with another Swedish victory in Calgary in 2012.
Club Career Triumphs
Domestically, Peter Åslin enjoyed considerable success, securing three Swedish Championship titles (SM-guld) in the top-tier league, known today as the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) but previously as Elitserien. He was instrumental in two championship victories with AIK Hockey from Stockholm, contributing to their wins in 1982 and 1984. Later in his career, Åslin added a third national title, achieving a memorable championship with HV71 of Jönköping in 1995. This final victory underscored his longevity and continued impact in Swedish club hockey.
International Success with Tre Kronor
Peter Åslin's contributions to the Swedish national senior ice hockey team, famously known as Tre Kronor (Three Crowns), were equally impressive and consistent. He participated in four IIHF Men's World Championships, achieving a medal in every single one, a testament to his reliability and peak performance on the global stage. His crowning achievement came in 1992, when he backstopped Tre Kronor to a coveted gold medal at the World Championship in Prague, Czech Republic. Beyond this gold, he also secured three silver medals at the World Championships in 1986, 1990, and 1993, showcasing Sweden's consistent presence among the world's elite hockey nations during his tenure.
Further adding to his distinguished international record, Åslin earned an Olympic bronze medal at the 1988 Winter Olympics held in Calgary, Canada. This achievement solidified his status as a multi-medal winner for his country across various major international tournaments. Overall, Peter Åslin proudly represented Sweden in an impressive 91 national team games, highlighting his enduring commitment and skill as a premier goaltender for Tre Kronor.
Personal Life and Legacy
Outside of his distinguished hockey career, Peter Åslin was a dedicated family man, married with children. Tragically, he passed away prematurely on January 19, 2012, in Leksand, Sweden, at the age of 49, following a series of debilitating strokes. His untimely death left a void in the Swedish hockey community, but his legacy as a decorated goaltender and a key figure in multiple historic victories for both club and country continues to be remembered and celebrated.
Frequently Asked Questions About Peter Karl Åslin
- Who was Peter Karl Åslin?
- Peter Karl Åslin was a highly accomplished Swedish national ice hockey goaltender, born in 1962, who had a distinguished career playing for Sweden's national team (Tre Kronor) and several top Swedish clubs, most notably AIK and HV71.
- What were Peter Åslin's most significant international achievements?
- Åslin secured a gold medal at the 1981 IIHF World U20 Championship, a gold medal at the 1992 Men's World Championship in Prague, and three silver medals at the World Championships (1986, 1990, 1993). He also won an Olympic bronze medal at the 1988 Calgary Olympics.
- How many Swedish Championship titles did Åslin win?
- Peter Åslin won three Swedish Championship titles (SM-guld) in the top-tier league. He won two with AIK (1982, 1984) and one with HV71 (1995).
- When did Peter Karl Åslin pass away?
- Peter Karl Åslin passed away on January 19, 2012, in Leksand, Sweden, at the age of 49, after suffering multiple strokes.
- What was the significance of Åslin's 1981 World Junior Championship win?
- The 1981 IIHF World U20 Championship gold medal, with Åslin in net, was Sweden's only victory at that tournament for 31 years, until their next win in 2012.