Ryan Best, born in Matsqui,
British Columbia, is a prominent figure in the hockey community, particularly
in the Windsor, Ontario area. He has an extensive background as both a player
and a coach.
Playing Career: Ryan's playing
career includes time during the Sun County Panther’s inaugural season over 25
years ago. Ryan ended up playing in the WSHL for the Phoenix Polar Bears, Utah
Jr. Grizzly’s, and fighting for the National tittle with Sacramento Capital
City Thunder. Ryan ended his career with the Windsor St. Clair Saints playing
in the OHASr.
Coaching Career: Transitioning
into coaching, Ryan has held several notable positions including two years with
the Dallas Titans in the WSHL as the leagues youngest head coach. Coming back
to Ontario, Ryan transitioned into AAA with Windsor as an assistant coach for
two years. Moving back to his roots, Ryan was placed as a head coach with the
Sun County Panthers AAA organization from 2017 to 2022. In recognition of his
coaching excellence, he was named the ALLIANCE Hockey Coach of the Year for the
2019-20 season.
During the 2022-23 season Ryan
took on the role of assistant coach for the women's hockey team at the
University of Windsor. The following year he assisted with Essex 73's in the
PJCHL. During the 2024-25 season Ryan moved back to the head coaching position
for the U15 Sun County Panthers where the team is currently holding a playoff
position. Ryan currently holds 65% winning percentage as a coach.
In addition to these roles,
Ryan is the owner and head instructor of Defensive Edge Hockey, a position he
has held since 2010. He has also helped contribute to multiple teams and
organizations at various levels as a primary consultant. Ryan Best's dedication
to hockey in the Tecumseh and Windsor regions is evident through his ongoing
commitment to developing young talent and contributing to the sport's growth at
various levels.
See you at the SCP tryouts!