Roster, U15 (Sun County Panthers)

Ryan Best

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.×