Utah Grizzlies Introduce Ryan Kinasewich As New Head Coach

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The Utah Grizzlies didn’t have to look far for their new head coach.

The Utah Grizzlies announced today that they have hired Ryan Kinasewich to replace long-time head coach Tim Branham. Branham has taken the role as an assistant coach with the Colorado Eagles, the AHL affiliate of the Colorado Avalanche.

Kinasewich has been the assistant coach for the Grizzlies for the past three seasons and played five seasons with Utah and finished his career as the Grizzlies’ all-time leading scorer. In 239 games played with Utah, Kinasewich put up 156 goals, 190 assists for 346 points.

We will be going live on Facebook and Instagram Tuesday (9/28) at 11:00 AM to announce our new coaching staff.#GoGrizzGo 🐻🏒 pic.twitter.com/wp7uxKTLZu

— Utah Grizzlies (@UtahGrizzlies) September 24, 2021

KSL Sports spoke with Kinasewich about the change.

KSLS- When did you realize that Tim was moving on and you were in the running to be the head coach?

RK- Honestly, it all happened so suddenly, it was kind of a whirlwind. Once I knew Tim was leaving, I had a pretty good feeling that I would have a great shot at the job.

KSLS- Had you given yourself a timeline to become a head coach?

RK- I had not set a timeline. I’ve always wanted to be a head coach, but I also knew I needed time to season as an assistant before that became a reality.

KSLS- Do you think it gives you an advantage that you not only played here but that you cut your teeth as an assistant coach here?

RK- Obviously being part of this organization for 9 years and the familiarity with Kevin Bruder and Jill Roberts helped my chances. I’m grateful to them for believing in me.

KSLS- What will a Ryan Kinasewich built team look like?

RK- I’m a big believer in building from the net out. I think this season we will have strong goaltending and a fantastic D core. That being said, I was an offensive player, so I want my team to be high octane, push the pace and have a relentless attack. I’m excited to get everyone going.

The Utah Grizzlies kick off the season against their rivals the Idaho Steelheads, a team that opted out of last season, in Idaho on Friday, October 22. The home opener is on October 23 at the Maverik Center.

Coming soon… October 23rd#GoGrizzGo🐻🏒 pic.twitter.com/5fpDn97aHd

— Utah Grizzlies (@UtahGrizzlies) September 17, 2021