The team was involved in the founding of the Finnish top division Liiga, formerly known as SM-Liiga, in 1975, but was relegated only one year later after the 1975–1976 season.

Climbing back up to the First division proved to be a tough task and wasn't accomplished until spring 1997, with the game-winning goal of the deciding game against Kiekko-67 being scored by Kari Teräväinen in overtime.

The overall qualification series were close as Sport at one point was a single goal away from beating Ässät in overtime and being promoted to Liiga, but was unable to score.

Eventually, the club surfaced from its financial struggles and went ahead to consistently fight for the championship victory again.

This was due to former Liiga team Jokerit transferring to KHL, leaving an open slot in the Finnish top division.