Rosemount’s Ricky Saintey in Class 2A and Mankato West’s Nate Olsen in Class 1A were named the state’s coaches of the year by the Minnesota Hockey Coaches Association.
Saintey, in his 9th season leading the Irish, guided Rosemount to a 25-5-1 record this season that included a 4-2 victory against Edina on Saturday in the state Class 2A third-place game. Rosemount was making its second state tournament appearance, the first coming in 1992.
Olsen, in his fifth season at Mankato West, led the Scarlets to a 20-9-2 record and sixth-place finish in the state Class 1A tournament. The Scarlets were making their first state tournament appearance since 2016.
“I am incredibly proud of both Nate and Ricky,” MHCA Executive Director Dustin Vogelgesang said. “Their passion, dedication, and commitment to their programs are truly inspiring. From the youngest Mites all the way through high school, they give their whole hearts to developing players and building something special.
“They are not only creating winning teams, but more importantly, they are building a culture that always keeps the players’ best interests at the forefront,” Vogelgesang added. “Both coaches are shining examples of how educational-based athletic programs should be led with integrity, purpose, and a relentless commitment to developing young athletes both on and off the ice.
“Congratulations from the Minnesota Hockey Coaches Association.”
Mike Terwilliger of Shakopee in Class 2A and Nick Davidson of Dodge County in Class 1A were named assistant coaches of the year. West’s Jason Anderson was named section 3A assistant coach of the year.
Coaches of the year and assistant coaches of the year were also named in all eight Class 1A and 2A sections by the MHCA.