Finnish baseball figure Aulis Paski dies at 79

Aulis Arvi Ilmari Paski, a significant figure in Finnish baseball, passed away on June 20, 2026, in Seinäjoki at the age of 79. He succumbed to a long-term illness after a life dedicated to sports and community.

Paski began his pesäpallo journey in his hometown of Nurmo, quickly showing talent. He debuted in the top league at just 15 years old with Nurmon Jymy. His playing career continued with Puna-Mustat before he transitioned to coaching, where he achieved his greatest successes. As a coach for Puna-Mustat and Hyvinkään Tahko, Paski was known for his strategic acumen and ability to instill a winning mentality, leading his teams to Finnish championships in 1973 and three consecutive titles from 1979 to 1981.

Beyond his coaching achievements, Paski was a key administrator. He served as the operational manager for Hyvinkään Tahko and held the position of operational manager for the Finnish Pesäpalloliitto (Baseball Association) from 1972 to 1974. His contributions were recognized in 2022 when he was inducted into the Pesäpallon Hall of Fame, acknowledging his influential role in the sport.

Paski also made pioneering contributions to municipal sports. He was the first sports secretary in Nurmo, a position established in 1970, setting a precedent for other municipalities in Finland. In this role, he championed youth sports and recognized the importance of community fitness programs.

After his pesäpallo career, Paski pursued golf with passion, founding the humorous Peltru-golf club. The club, with its unique entry requirements of being from Nurmo or embodying the spirit of pesäpallo, hosted an annual tournament for 29 years. Paski's passing marks the end of this tradition, leaving behind memories of a dedicated sportsman, administrator, and community leader.