Calgary Flames head coach Ryan Huska will be representing Canada in the upcoming IIHF World Championship in Sweden and Denmark.
Huska, born in Cranbrook and grew up in Trail, says it was an easy decision when he was asked to be an assistant coach.
“It means a lot. Often at this time of the year you want to be playing playoff hockey but the one nice thing that players and coaches have if they get the opportunity to is to take part in the World Championships,” he said.
“When I was offered the opportunity I didn’t even have to think about it.”
Huska recently completed his second season as the Flames’ head coach and just missed out on the playoffs, but he’s hoping to bring the gold home for Canada.
“I’m really honoured to represent Canada and be part of a great coaching staff and hopefully be able to come home with a gold medal.”
The Columbus Blue Jackets’ head coach Dean Evason was named head coach for team Canada.
Huska will be joined by Trail Smoke Eaters and Kootenay Ice alum Steve McCarthy who was also named as an assistant coach.
He’s been an assistant coach with the Blue Jackets since the 2021/22 season.
Canada will open the tournament against Slovenia on May 10.
They will then face Latvia, France, Austria, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden in the preliminary round.
The medal games will take place on May 25.
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