If you weren’t awake when Latvia announced the first six players they’ll be taking to the Olympics, you’re not alone. Considering there’s a seven hour time difference, it was actually nine in the morning for Latvians.
But nonetheless, the Flyers will have at least one representative at the Winter Olympics. Rodrigo Abols, who has played for his country numerous times, will be heading to Italy as a part of Team Latvia.
Latvia reveals the first 6 players on its preliminary roster for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026.🇱🇻👀 #IIHF #Olympics #NHL #NHLPA @lhf_lv @olympics @nhl @nhlpa pic.twitter.com/khjuffSnLq
— IIHF (@IIHFHockey) June 16, 2025
Abols has been a huge part of Latvia’s roster dating back to 2012-13 when he first represented his country in international play. Since then, he has played at the World Juniors, World Championships, and various other tournaments throughout his career. And on nearly every stage, Abols has found success.
He was a part of the Latvia team that shocked the world when they earned the bronze medal at the 2023 World Hockey Championship. The defeated the United States, which was another shocker. Abols had five goals and seven points in 10 games and was named a top three player on Latvia’s roster. While Latvia would fail to medal at the tournament the following year, Abols was still recognized as a top player on his team.
His play, both internationally and in the SHL, helped earn him an NHL contract with the Flyers heading into the 2024-25 season. Mostly playing for the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Abols did earn a late season call up in January, making his NHL debut at 29. He appeared in 22 games, scoring his first career goal and finishing with two goals and five points. For the Phantoms, Abols had 15 goals and 32 points in 47 games.
Grab that puck! 🙌
— NHL (@NHL) February 5, 2025
Rodrigo Abols has his first NHL goal! pic.twitter.com/ibMdkJzLa2
Abols signed on for another year with the Flyers and will once again have a chance to battle for a spot in the NHL.