Latvian Players Dominate Optibet Hockey League Season Awards
The Optibet Hockey League (OHL) has announced its award winners for the 2025/2026 season, and a remarkable trend emerged: all four major awards were claimed by Latvian players. The league’s top performers were selected through a vote by the head coaches of all OHL teams.
Jānis Voris | Foto: LHF
Jānis Voris Named Top Goaltender
Leading the way was Jānis Voris, the goaltender for Kyiv Capitals, who earned the title of best goaltender. In 19 games played, Voris maintained a remarkable 92.2% save percentage while allowing an average of just 2.57 goals against. He likewise recorded at least one shutout during the season, solidifying his position as one of the league’s elite netminders. Voris’s statistics demonstrate his consistent performance throughout the regular season.
Pauls Svars Recognized as Top Defenseman
On the blue line, Pauls Svars of Liepāja earned the distinction of being named the league’s top defenseman. Svars showcased his all-around game, accumulating 41 points (10 goals and 31 assists) in 39 games played, while also registering 10 penalty minutes. His offensive contributions from the back end were a key factor in Liepāja’s success.
Roberts Jekimovs Claims Top Forward Honors
Up front, Roberts Jekimovs of Prizma was crowned the league’s top forward. Jekimovs led the OHL in scoring with an impressive 66 points (28 goals and 38 assists) in 40 games. His offensive prowess was instrumental in Prizma’s regular season performance. Jekimovs’s ability to both score and create opportunities for his teammates made him a unanimous choice for the award.
Kristers Obuks Earns Top Young Player Award
Rounding out the award winners was Kristers Obuks of Riga Hockey School, who was named the league’s top young player, receiving the Aleksejs Auziņš award. The 17-year-old forward demonstrated significant potential, recording 28 points (11 goals and 17 assists) in 37 games. Obuks’s emergence as a key player for Riga Hockey School signals a bright future for Latvian hockey.
The dominance of Latvian players in the OHL awards reflects the growing talent pool within the country’s hockey system. The league’s recognition of these players underscores the increasing competitiveness and skill level within the Optibet Hockey League. It’s a testament to the development programs and dedication of players across Latvia.
The awards were determined by a vote of all OHL head coaches, adding weight to the selections and highlighting the consensus among league personnel regarding these players’ exceptional contributions. This season’s award winners represent the best of the best in the Optibet Hockey League, and their achievements will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Latvian hockey players.
Looking ahead, the OHL playoffs are set to begin, and these award-winning players will be crucial to their respective teams’ success. Fans can expect exciting matchups and high-stakes competition as teams battle for the championship title. The league’s official website, www.lhf.lv, will provide updates on the playoff schedule and results.
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