Chiefs part ways with Head Coach Ryan Smith
Spokane, Wash. — The Spokane Chiefs announced Wednesday that they have parted ways with Head Coach Ryan Smith.
“It was a difficult decision to part ways with Ryan,” Chiefs General Manager Matt Bardsley said. “He is a quality person who has been instrumental in laying the foundation for us to have success while building a strong culture, but we felt it was necessary to move in a different direction. We thank Ryan and his family for all they have done for the Spokane Chiefs organization and wish him all the best going forward.”
Smith spent two full seasons as the team’s full-time Head Coach after taking over as Interim Head Coach in February of the 2021-22 season. He spent 126 regular season games and eight playoff games at the helm.
The Chiefs will also not renew Assistant Coach Dustin Donaghy’s contract for the 2024-25 season.
“Dustin is a passionate young coach and a proud alum, and we thank him for his two years with the Chiefs and wish him well going forward,” Bardsley said.
Current Associate Coach Stefan Legein will return for the 2024-25 season.
The organization’s search for a new head coach will begin immediately.
—
The Spokane Chiefs are a member of the U.S. Division of the Western Hockey League, the world’s finest development league for junior hockey players. Since 1985 the Chiefs have been a pillar in the Spokane community, offering family-friendly entertainment and a winning tradition, which includes: two Memorial Cup Championships in 1991 & 2008, two WHL Championships in 1991 & 2008 and four Western Conference Championships in 1991, 1996, 2000 & 2008. Over 60 alumni have gone on to play in the National Hockey League.
