Mikko Esko, 31, is the first setter of the Finnish team. He has 162 matches in the national team. Head coach Mauro Berruto says that Esko is now one the best setters in the world. Esko was nominated as the best Finnish Volleyball player of the seasons 2008-2009 and 2009-2010. 198 cm tall Esko played three seasons in Padova, one season in Montichiari and last season in Modena with a four year contract to the club. Esko is a national league and cup champion of two different countries: Finland and Belgium. He is also a two time Finnish champion in beach volley. His nickname is “Meskoâ€, which comes from M. Esko in his playing shirt. Mikko’s wife Saara Esko plays also as a professional Volleyball player. Her club in the season 2009-2010 was Carpi in the Italian A2-league and they succeeded to qualify to the A1. Saara was named the best Finnish female Volleyball player of the seasons 2008-2009 and 2009-2010.
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