Sioux Falls, S.D. – Sioux Falls Stampede Head Coach Ryan Cruthers has been named a finalist for United States Hockey League (USHL) Coach of the Year honors.
Cruthers is in his first year as the Stampede's Head Coach after serving as an assistant for the club during the 2022-23 season. During that time, he was a key figure in the development of NHL prospects Sam Harris (Montreal), Maxim Strbak (Buffalo), and Chris Pelosi (Boston).

In his first season leading the Herd, the Farmingdale, N.Y. native guided the Stampede to a first-round bye in the Clark Cup Playoffs following their best regular season since 2019-20. Under his leadership, the team achieved its first 40-win season since 2012-13, which included 20 home victories. With Coach Cruthers' help, the Stampede also hosted their first playoff game in six years, bringing new life back to hockey in Sioux Falls.

With his coaching this team's offensive production was historic, breaking the franchise record with 247 goals scored. The scoring output rivaled that of the Stampede's 2015 Clark Cup championship team. Prior to this season and Reid Varkonyi's breakout year, the last Stampede player to record a 50-point season was Artem Ivanyuzhenkov during the 2018-19 Clark Cup run. Demonstrating his team first mentality produces individual successes. 

Cruthers' commitment to the organization goes far beyond on-ice success. His focus on building a strong locker room culture has been reflected both on the ice and within the community. Cruthers has played an important role in supporting youth hockey in Sioux Falls, with the team contributing 82 hours to local youth programs. Ryan Cruthers' dedication to the Stampede has elevated both the team's performance and its culture, on and off the ice.