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Ziedins Selected to Latvian Olympic Team

December 22, 2005 - ECHL (ECHL)
Stockton Thunder News Release


STOCKTON, Calif. - Stockton Thunder center Maris Ziedins has been selected to play for the Latvian national Olympic Hockey Team at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy.

"All of us in the Thunder organization are very proud of Maris for making the Latvian Olympic team," said Thunder President Dan Chapman. "Anytime an athlete has an opportunity to represent his or her country, it has a very special meaning. In addition to the United States, Thunder fans will have another team to root for in the Olympics."

Ziedins, 27, was selected to a roster of 23 players (three goaltenders and 20 skaters), which include 13 returnees from the 2002 Winter Olympic squad and 17 participants in the 2005 World Championships. Ziedins' teammates will also include past and present National Hockey League veterans Arturs Irbe (goaltender - San Jose, Dallas, Carolina, Vancouver), Mighty Ducks of Anaheim defenseman Sandis Ozolinsh, and Colorado Avalanche defenseman Karlis Skrastins.

A native of Talsi, Latvia, Ziedins has registered seven points (2g-5a) in 15 games with the Thunder in 2005-06. He split his first ECHL season in 2004-05 between the Toledo Storm and Greenville Grrrowl, combining for 48 points (25g-23a) in 67 games.

"Maris' puck-handling and playmaking skills will be a huge asset for Team Latvia," said Thunder head coach Chris Cichocki. "I'm assured it will be a great experience for him."

Ziedins is slated to rejoin the Thunder from his Olympic tryout on December 26, in time for Stockton's 5pm game against the Fresno Falcons.

The 2006 Winter Olympic Games' hockey tournament (men's bracket) is scheduled for February 15-26, and will feature a five-day "round robin" competition, leading up to the medal rounds from February 22-26.

Team Latvia is scheduled to play its first game in the tournament against Team U.S.A. on Wednesday, February 15 at noon (PT). NBC Universal Networks Television will carry coverage of the Olympics (check local listings).

A complete listing of the Latvian roster is available for viewing at www.nhl.com/features/latvia_oly_roster.html.

The Thunder returns to play on December 26 against the Falcons, with a 5pm (PT) faceoff slated at Fresno's Save Mart Center. The game can be heard live on the internet (free-of-charge) and is available for viewing at a $6 "pay-per-view" fare at www.stocktonthunder.com, courtesy of B-2 Networks.

Thunder season tickets, individual tickets, and mini packages are on-sale now. Individual tickets can be purchased in-person at Stockton Arena's Box Office, online at www.stocktontickets.com, or by phone at (209) 373-1700. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit www.stocktonthunder.com.



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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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