SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — The Sioux Falls Stampede are proud to announce the hiring of Justen Close as the team's assistant coach and goaltending coach for the upcoming season.

Close most recently served as an assistant coach at Gustavus Adolphus College, where he helped guide the Gusties to an 18-8-1 record and a berth in the MIAC Championship Game.

"We are thrilled to welcome Justen to the Stampede family," said Stampede General Manager Tony Gasparini. "As a player, he was one of the top collegiate goaltenders in the country during his career at the University of Minnesota, and his coaching experience at Gustavus made him the ideal choice. I think our players and staff will enjoy working with him, and we look forward to having him help continue the tradition of excellence we've built in Sioux Falls."

Close joined the Gustavus coaching staff after completing an outstanding playing career that included five seasons as a goaltender at the University of Minnesota. During his time with the Golden Gophers, he helped the program capture a Big Ten Tournament championship, two Big Ten regular-season championships and two NCAA Frozen Four appearances. Close was a two-time semifinalist for the Mike Richter Award, which recognizes the top goaltender in NCAA Division I men's hockey. He concluded his collegiate career tied for the program record with 13 career shutouts, matching a mark held by former Stampede goaltender Kellen Briggs.

Following his collegiate career, Close spent one professional season with the Jacksonville Icemen of the ECHL, where he earned ECHL All-Rookie Team honors.

"I am extremely excited to join one of the top junior hockey organizations in North America in Sioux Falls," Close said. "I hope to contribute to the level of excellence that has already been established here and look forward to getting to work."

A native of Kindersley, Saskatchewan, Close earned a bachelor's degree in management and a master's degree in sport management from the University of Minnesota, graduating in 2024.

The defending Clark Cup champion Stampede continue preparations for the 2026-27 season. Players will report to training camp in three weeks, with the first official practice scheduled for Aug. 26. Season, group and suite tickets are available now through the Stampede office at 605-275-4625.