SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The United States Hockey League (USHL) announced today that
Sioux Falls Stampede General Manager
Tony Gasparini has been named the
2025–26 USHL General Manager of the Year.
The honor marks the second time in franchise history, and the first since Bob Motzko earned the award in 1999–00, when Gasparini served as an assistant coach with the organization.
"Tony helped us start the Stampede nearly 30 years ago. He joined the Los Angeles Kings as a member of their hockey staff, helping them win two Stanley Cups," said Stampede co-owner Brian Schoenborn. "Tony rejoined us our General Manager several years ago and he brought his experience, incredible hockey sense and leadership back to the Stampede, and has made an incredible difference."
"Being named USHL GM of the Year is a testament to Tony as a person, professional and a leader in the sport of hockey," added Schoenborn.
The 2025–26 season marked Gasparini's fourth campaign as the club's Vice President of Hockey Operations and General Manager. The Stampede posted 89 points with a 43-16-3 record, finishing first in the Western Conference and second overall in the USHL. The team also recorded back-to-back 40-plus win seasons for the first time in franchise history.
"I am honored and humbled to receive this award, but it truly belongs to our entire team," said Gasparini. "It reflects the dedication of Coach Cruthers, his staff, our scouts, and the entire hockey operations group. Their hard work throughout the season, especially in developing our players, has been a key factor in our success on the ice."
The Stampede featured a balanced offensive attack, with eight players recording 40 or more points and 12 players reaching the 30-point mark. The team's 267 goals scored tied a franchise record. All accomplishments ranking first in the USHL.
Gasparini's roster building was highlighted by offseason addition
Thomas Zocco, who led the Herd in scoring with 70 points (22 goals, 48 assists) in 60 games, and long-term defenseman
Matthew Grimes, a 2023 tender who developed into a key contributor this season with 35 points (9 goals, 26 assists).
Key draft selections were highlighted by 2025–26 USHL Rookie of the Year
Cooper Soller and defenseman
Jake Prunty. Soller, a 2024 Phase I Draft pick, totaled 49 points (26 goals, 23 assists), while Prunty, selected in the 2025 Phase I Draft, added 37 points (4 goals, 33 assists) in his rookie campaign.
Goaltender
Linards Feldbergs, a 12th-round selection in the 2025 Phase II Draft, posted a 2.51 goals-against average and a .910 save percentage in his first season. Forward
Brent Solomon, a 2024 Phase I Draft selection and Detroit Red Wings draft pick, contributed 53 points (24 goals, 29 assists) in his first full season with the team.
Key in-season acquisitions included forwards
Brock Schultz and Tobias Öhman. Schultz made an immediate impact, recording 17 points (10 goals, 7 assists) in his first 11 games, including a nine-game point streak. He finished the season with 42 points (23 goals, 19 assists) in 47 games with Sioux Falls. Öhman added 22 points (6 goals, 16 assists) in 20 games after joining the team in February.
The Stampede return to action in the Clark Cup Playoffs tomorrow night in Lincoln in Game 3 of the Western Conference Semifinals. Puck drop is 7:05 PM and fans can listen live on KELO News Talk 1320-AM, 105.1-FM, 107.9-FM and KELO.com or watch on FloSports.
