Cruthers returns to the Stampede after serving as an assistant coach during the 2022-23 season

The Sioux Falls Stampede have tabbed Ryan Cruthers to be the new head coach after the franchise opted not to renew Eric Rud's contract last week.

Cruthers, 39, spent last season in the SPHL, where he served as the Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations for the Fayetteville Marksmen. The Farmingdale, New York, native guided the team to a 31-19-6-0 record and a postseason berth.

Prior to his time with Fayetteville, Cruthers was an assistant coach for the Stampede during the 2022–23 season.

Cruthers also spent time with the USPHL's Charlotte Rush for two seasons as the team's general manager and head coach. He notably served as head coach and assistant general manager for the Chicago Steel during the 2017–18 season.

"First, I would like to thank the ownership and staff for putting their trust in me to be the next head coach of the Stampede," said Cruthers in a release. "I am excited to return to the Sioux Falls community after spending the 2022–23 season here and getting to know our passionate fan base." He continued, "It's clear what the Stampede vision is as an organization and I am excited to help lead it in that direction. Tony and his scouting staff have attracted top-tier talent that we will continue to develop daily on an individual basis while working towards our team goals."

"We are thrilled to have Ryan back with the Stampede," said Stampede General Manager and Vice President of Hockey Operations Tony Gasparini in the same release. "In his short time with us a year ago, he showed a tremendous work ethic and dedication towards our players and their individual development, both on the ice and as young men."

Prior to his coaching career, Cruthers played collegiate hockey at Army and Robert Morris, serving as a team captain during the 2007–08 season.

Professionally, he spent time in the ECHL with the Utah Grizzlies, Mississippi Sea Wolves, Reading Royals, Alaska Aces, and Orlando Solar Bears. Added, Cruthers played in the AHL with stops in Lake Erie, Albany, Norfolk, Manitoba, and Hershey.

After his final season with the Reading Royals, in which he scored 15 goals and 50 points while also serving as a player-assistant coach, Cruthers retired from his playing days and made the transition to coaching full time.