HV71, the celebrated Jönköping hockey team, has made waves at this year’s Musikhjälpen, showcasing not just talents on the ice but also the unity and passion of its fanbase. The fundraising event, which has concluded successfully, saw HV71's entrance song "Håå Vee" emerge as the most requested track, overshadowing the usual favorites like Taylor Swift and Coldplay.
The 2024 edition of Musikhjälpen took place over the course of one week, firmly rooted in Sundsvall. It kicked off on Monday and concluded the following Sunday. The event was broadcast live on both Sveriges Radio and SVT, allowing fans from across the nation to contribute not only their money but also their voices.
This year, Musikhjälpen raised over 60 million kronor, marking it as the second highest total ever achieved by the fundraising program. Host Linnéa Wikblad expressed her excitement, stating, "Jag hade en känsla i kroppen att vi skulle slå förra året." The atmosphere radiated enthusiasm as supporters engaged with the initiative, showcasing the vibrant hockey community's spirit.
Mari Hesthammer, music editor at Musikhjälpen, commented on the significance of this hockey patriotism, saying, "Det är fantastiskt att hockeypatriotismen har kunnat bidra till årets ändamål." This reflects how HV71's supporters not only uplift their team at games but also rally for charitable causes, unifying behind meaningful representations.
Throughout the week, over 73,000 song requests poured in, contributions led by HV71’s iconic song. The team’s vibrant representation found itself not only at the top but also confronting playful competition from the likes of Luleå Hockey’s "Muskler av Stål" and Färjestad’s entrance songs, showcasing the fierceness of hockey fandom across the country.
Fans demonstrated their commitment with requests flooding the lines, many expressing their sentiments through social media. Carl Andersson, devoted HV supporter, articulated the power of engagement, stating, "Det visar på kraften som finns bland alla HV-supportrar i Jönköping och runtom i Sverige.” This powerful assertion captured the essence of the support behind HV71, which blossomed during Musikhjälpen.
The program unfolded through live broadcasts featuring the hosts, who managed to maintain the momentum of viewer interest. Emil Hansius, one of the program hosts, also humorously remarked on the competition, saying, "Det här är den enda tabellen de kan toppa," cleverly prodding rival teams as HV71 led the request ranks.
Competitors from other hockey clubs fought back, yet HV71's supporters prevailed once again. Interestingly, this wasn’t the first time the team dazzled at Musikhjälpen. Last year's program saw their entrance song reach the fourth position on the charts, but this time, without the prominent backing of local celebrity Sofia Dalén, the triumph felt even more gratifying. Carl Andersson reflected, "I år hade vi ingen Sofia Dalén som hjälpte oss. Vi fick kämpa i motvind – det gör ju det här ännu mer imponerande.”
The community spirit and togetherness centered around HV71 extend beyond the music show. Despite facing challenges this SHL season, the team has turned its fortunes around, winning five consecutive matches following some dismal performances. This revitalization has brought about optimism not only on the ice but within the city’s supporters. With many expressing pride and unity, Carl Andersson stated, "Det vi lever för är sammanhållningen kring klubben och det betyder mer än vad det står på resultattavlan.”
This experience at Musikhjälpen shows how sports unite fans and communities, elevates morale, and contributes to charitable causes. The fundraising campaign has managed not only to meet its targets but has inspired countless to participate, showcasing the strength of individual contributions creating significant outcomes.
Looking forward, the HV71 team is set to face top club Frölunda, on Thursday, stirring enthusiasm among fans eager to see their beloved team rise through the ranks. The combination of such sportsmanship with communal efforts like Musikhjälpen epitomizes what it means to be part of the hockey family.
Overall, the 2024 edition of Musikhjälpen bore witness to the immense support garnered by HV71, imbuing the event not just with fundraising but with the power of hockey spirit and community pride. With the visibility and success achieved, one can only anticipate what future events will bring for both the team and its unwavering supporters.
