CHIPPEWA FALLS, WI – The North American Hockey League’s (NAHL) Chippewa Steel announced today that both coaches have been renewed to return for the 2024-25 season.
General Manager & Head Coach Chris Ratzloff will be returning for his second season with the Steel after leading the team to a 29-25-4-2 record in his first season. . He emphasizes the team’s potential and the strong relationships built within the Chippewa community, stating, “I’m grateful to have another opportunity with the Steel and look forward to next season. We have a great core of potential returners and the players we have recruited will add to that.”
Assistant Coach Steve Dougherty will be entering his third season and has also has been promoted to Associate Head Coach. Dougherty shares his enthusiasm for developing young talent and working alongside Ratzloff. He highlights the team’s focus on nurturing players for future advancement, stating, “I’m really excited to be returning with the Steel for another season! I am looking forward to again getting to coach and learn from Chris Ratzloff, he’s a phenomenal coach and an even better person!”
Owner Kelly Kasik echoes the excitement, emphasizing the coaches’ positive impact on the community and their commitment to player development, stating, “We are thrilled to have our coaches back! We had a great group of young talented hockey players this past season and I am so excited to see what they can accomplish next season.”
In addition to coaching renewals, the Chippewa Steel announced a new three-year lease agreement with the Chippewa Area Ice Arena. This extension underscores the team’s dedication to Chippewa Falls and its vibrant hockey community.
Ratzloff and Dougherty express their eagerness to continue engaging with fans and youth hockey programs while solidifying the Steel’s presence in Chippewa Falls, with Ratzloff adding, “We are excited about the three year lease. It has been great working with Bob and the CYHA Board. Our players have enjoyed working with the youth teams and programs and will continue that.”
Dougherty concludes, “The recently signed three-year agreement with the rink solidifies that we’ll be a part of the great community of Chippewa for the next few seasons, and is something everyone is really excited about!”
Kelly Kasik reaffirms the organization’s commitment to community partnerships and looks forward to the continued success of the Chippewa Steel in the coming seasons.
The Steel are actively working on sponsorships and season tickets. If Interested, please reach out to Cory Hunt at cory@chippewasteelhockey or Chris Ratzloff at chris@chippewasteelhockey.com.
Visit www.chippewasteelhockey.com for the latest news and information from the team including press releases, sponsor, ticket and other i.nformation.
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