With all the pop stars messing around, all the superstar athletes making a fool of themselves everywhere, it’s heartening to know that there are still men like Raimo “Raipe” Helminen around.

The six-time Olympian, and the world record holder with his amazing 330 games with Team Finland is a good as they come.

He’s always played with a lot of heart, he does his best, he never gives up, and he’s had no problems with going from the Swedish Elite League scoring leader and a powerplay dynamo to being a penalty-killing grandpa that takes the important faceoffs. I can’t remember reading an article about him complaining about his problems with the Swedish taxman. He’s honest, he looks you in the eye when he talks to you, he calls you back if he says he’s going to, he’s funny, passionate, and just one great man.

I remember when I decided to write a book about the team that won Finland’s first (and only) World Championship in hockey.

I sat in the car parked outside my son’s kindergarten and called Raipe. He was the first person I called. I introduced myself, and said that I wanted to write a book about them, and wondered if he’d be interested in participating.

He said “yes” before I had finished my sentence. And with Raipe on board, I knew I would get the rest.

I don’t have many idols left, but the one I have is the best.