Ilves signs Champions Hockey League winner Christoffer Rifalk to bolster goaltending

Ilves reports that Christoffer Rifalk, raised in Kalix in northern Sweden, came up through Kalix HF and Luleå HF before stepping into senior hockey.

His breakthrough came during a loan to IK Oskarshamn, where he played a key role in the club's promotion to the SHL in 2019. He then spent seven seasons with Rögle BK, collecting three silver medals and a Champions Hockey League title. He recalled early encouragement, "maybe you should be there in goal," and credits his technical style for his development.

Rifalk cited Ilves's clear ambition to win the Finnish championship as the main reason for his move. Settling into Tampere has been easy thanks to teammates, club staff and the loud home crowds. He has already found strong chemistry with fellow goaltender Mantas Armalis and praised the arena and supporters. Exclusive interviews are on ILVES+. Off the ice, he is enjoying Tampere's restaurants, nature and saunas and spends downtime playing video games with teammates.

The move comes after Ilves reshuffled its goaltending this season, including Roope Taponen's loan to HC Davos reported in March.