Olavi Linnonmaa is a Finnish former professional ice hockey player who played as a forward. He is best known for his career with HIFK in the SM-liiga, the top-tier professional ice hockey league in Finland, during the 1970s and early 1980s. He also represented the Finnish national team internationally.
Biography Born in Finland, Olavi Linnonmaa began his professional ice hockey career in the SM-liiga with HIFK during the 1973–74 season. He established himself as a reliable forward for the Helsinki-based club, spending the majority of his career there.
His professional club career included stints with:
- HIFK: 1973–1981
- SaiPa: 1981–1982
- HIFK: 1982–1983
Linnonmaa's career highlight came in his final professional season, 1982–83, when he won the Kanada-malja, the Finnish championship, with HIFK. He was known for his consistent play and contributions to his team's offense.
International Play Linnonmaa represented the Finnish national ice hockey team on the international stage. A notable appearance was his participation in the inaugural Canada Cup tournament in 1976, where he was part of the Finnish squad competing against top hockey nations.
Awards and Achievements
- Kanada-malja (Finnish Ice Hockey Champion): 1983 (with HIFK)