Sioux Falls, S.D. — Sioux Falls Stampede General Manager Tony Gasparini has been named a finalist for the United States Hockey League (USHL) General Manager of the Year Award.

Gasparini returned to the Stampede three years ago after a 12-year tenure with the Los Angeles Kings' amateur scouting department. Since his return, he has nearly doubled the team's win percentage. After missing the playoffs for four consecutive seasons, the Stampede have now earned back-to-back playoff appearances under Gasparini's leadership, including hosting their first playoff game in six years. His ability to build a competitive roster has reignited the Stampede's winning tradition.

A major part of Gasparini's success has been his talent acquisition. In his first full season, he tendered defenseman Matthew Grimes and drafted standout rookie Anthony Bongo. During Phase II of that same year, the Stampede selected NHL prospects Beckett Hendrickson and Dean Letourneau.

In his third USHL Phase I Draft, Gasparini secured key pieces including forward Alexei Vlasov and goaltender Kaenan Smith. During Phase II, he added 2024-25 Stampede captains Austin Baker, Brock James, and Bryce Ingles. He also picked up standouts goaltender Ryan Manzella and forward Brent Solomon.

Gasparini's eye for talent extends to the trade market as well. One of his key acquisitions was defenseman Gennadi Chaly, who joined the Stampede from the Waterloo Black Hawks during the 2023 offseason. Chaly went on to break the franchise record for most goals by a defenseman with 26.

Thanks to Gasparini's strategic moves over the past three years, the Stampede have once again become a competitive force in the USHL.

Gasparini and the Stampede staff will get back to work building next year's roster during the USHL Phase I and Phase II Drafts on May 5th and 6th. Stay tuned to the Stampede's social media channels for updates on the newest additions to the Herd.