Awww, it sort of tugs at the heart -- the end of an era, even though it ended with the Washington Capitals before today. Still, there is a bit of -- actually, let's face it, a whole lot of -- once a Capitals player, always in our minds and hearts. And Godzilla was so incredibly great -- so totally amazing!
"South African-born German international goaltender Olaf Kolzig, best known for his years with the Washington Capitals in the NHL, announced his retirement on Wednesday," according to Reuters. "Kolzig, an NHL All-Star in 1998 and 2000, played most of his career with the Capitals who drafted him in 1989."
Yep, of course he was known for his years -- heck, his career -- with the Caps! Those of us who are long-time Caps fans could never forget our own Olie the Goalie -- Olie the Great! -- and can still hear the chant, O-lie, O-lie, O-lie!
"The 39-year-old goaltender made eight appearances last year for Tampa Bay Lightning before injury cut short his season and although he was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs he did not feature for them."
Wow! Olie is 39! How quickly the years do pass. And if he's 39, how old does that make us?
"It was in the U.S. capital, though, where Kolzig made his name after several years learning his trade in the minor leagues," reported Reuters. "He won the Vezina Trophy as the league's top goaltender after posting 41 wins in 1999-2000, and also helped the Capitals reach the 1998 Stanley Cup finals."
It's a record to be proud of. Olie will certainly never forget the Caps -- nor will we forget him. He was one of the best, and seemingly one of the most underrated.
"While I appreciate everything the game has given me and certainly will miss it, I am looking forward to spending more time with my family and remaining involved in hockey in some capacity," Kolzig said in a statement released through the NHL Players' Association, the news release concluded.
There is no doubt, Olie was and remains very respected and loved by his Caps teammates and fans, and always will be a part of the Caps family!
Olie, thanks for the good times and the memories. Best of luck -- have a healthy and happy retirement!
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Statement from Capitals chairman and majority owner Ted Leonsis:
“Olie was the face of the Capitals franchise for years, on the ice, in the locker room and around Washington, D.C. He was a great Capital and the organization and our fans will always have fond memories of ‘Olie the Goalie.’ We wish him and his wonderful family all the best in his retirement.”
Kolzig retires with a number of Capitals goaltending records, including:
- Career games played (711), minutes (41,259), wins (301), save percentage (.906), saves (18,013) and shutouts (35)
- Single season games played (73, 1999-00), minutes (4,371, 1999-00), wins (41, 1999-00) and save percentage (.920, 1997-98) Sphere: Related Content
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