Below, you can acquaint yourself with ÅAU Sports leaders for the 2026-2027 academic year If you have any questions, you can find the contact details for the leaders in each presentation.
The site is still under construction.
Futsal
Sanni Kylén +358442033119
Hi! I’m Sanni Kylén, a primary teacher education student at Åbo Akademi University. I’ve been passionate about football and futsal for more than half of my life and have around five years of coaching experience. I look forward to welcoming you to the court and sharing the joy of the game!
Futsal for women and circuit for the staff
Nellie Mannil +358442306182
My name is Nellie Mannil, and I am studying to become a primary school teacher at Åbo Akademi University. I have always had a strong passion for sports and physical activity. I play football and compete in alpine skiing, but I have also tried many other sports over the years.
My interest in sports is partly thanks to my parents, but above all to my previous studies at Folkhälsan Norrvalla, where I trained as a sports instructor and completed a dual qualification in 2025. Through my education and my own experience in sports, I have had the opportunity to explore different ways of coaching and inspiring others to be physically active, which is something I am truly passionate about.
The most rewarding part of being an instructor is seeing others develop, helping them stay motivated, and making exercise an enjoyable and positive experience.
Rugby
Riccardo Notarangelo (+358504495054)
Volleyball, Floorball and Futsal
Hansen Tawiah +358465868444
Hey everyone! I’m Hansen, a doctoral researcher in Educational Sciences at Åbo Akademi. I lead floorball, volleyball, and futsal sessions. When I’m not immersed in research, you’ll find me staying active across just about everything, from running the courts in volleyball and futsal to hiking trails, swimming, cycling, football, and hockey.
My goal is to create an upbeat, inclusive space where everyone feels welcome, whether you’re picking up a ball for the first time or have been playing for years. Come as you are, break a sweat, meet great people, and let’s have some fun together! I hope to see you soon!
Karate for beginners and Intermediate class
Jens Knip (5th Dan) (+358505915260)
I have practised karate since 1987 and even Kyusho-jutsu for a few years of my career. I regularly attend international camps abroad to develop my skills. I also organise camps for a partner organisation in Finland every year as an invited guest. I am a registered instructor in the World Combat Association. I am in charge of training, content and development at Karate-Do Shotokan.
I possess a great deal of knowledge and skills in self-defence and threatening situations after working in the security sector for 15 years. Linda and I also regularly hold self-defence classes for various groups, such as social workers, nursing students and young girls. Various Adult Education Centres have also been long-standing partners.
Guided training in a small group at the gym
Anki Stenkull-Aura +358503677914
In addition to my administrative role as the coordinator of ÅAU Sports at Åbo Akademi, I am also a Physical Education teacher and a Personal Trainer. I’m passionate about health and wellbeing.