Sandis Ozoliņš (Russian: Сандис Озолиньш, Sandis Ozolinsh; pronounced /ˈsɑːndɨs ˈoʊzoʊlɪntʃ/; born August 3, 1972) is a Latvian ice hockey player and captain for Dinamo Riga of the Kontinental Hockey League. During his career in North America (in the NHL), Ozoliņš was a seven-time NHL All-Star, Stanley Cup champion, Norris Trophy finalist, the all-time leader for goals, assists, points and games played by a Latvian in the NHL, the all-time goal, and points leader among defencemen in Colorado Avalanche history and the second highest paid sportsman in Latvian history, after NBA basketball player Andris Biedriņš.
Ozoliņš was drafted in the 1991 NHL Entry Draft by the San Jose Sharks, as the 8th pick of the 2nd round, 30th overall. He has skated for the San Jose Sharks, Colorado Avalanche, Carolina Hurricanes, Florida Panthers, Mighty Ducks of Anaheim and New York Rangers. He is often considered a prototype "offensive defenseman," in that he becomes heavily involved in his team's offense and scoring opportunities.
Ozoliņš is also the owner of Vilki OP/LaRocca of the Riga Open Championship. Ozoliņš also owns other Latvian sports ventures, including Latvia's first 18-hole golf course, Ozo Golf Club.
