Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Holota played junior with the OHA's Guelph Biltmores. After leading the league in assists during the 1940-41 season, he turned pro the next year with Omaha Knights of the AHA. Holata was named to the league all-star team after notching 28 goals in 48 games. During the 1942-43 season he was recalled to Detroit for 12 matches and was also a top scorer for the AHL's Indianapolis Capitals and the senior Toronto Army Dodgers. Holota remained with the Dodgers then spent a year in military service during World War II.

After the War, Holota played three more games for the Wings then split the bulk of the season between the AHL and USHL. In 1946-47 he led the AHL with 52 goals as a member of the Cleveland Barons and was placed on the league's first all-star team. Holota starred for three more years in Cleveland and helped the team win the Calder Cup in 1948. He retired in 1951 after playing in the AHL, PCHL and USHL.

Courtesy of the Hockey Hall of Fame