Ryan Kinasewich named new head coach of Innsbruck

Following the unexpected departure of Jordan Smotherman, HC TIWAG Innsbruck has reacted swiftly and appointed a new bench boss: Ryan Kinasewich will lead the Haie moving forward. The Canadian spent the past eight years with the Utah Grizzlies of the ECHL – first as an assistant coach, then as head coach.

For Kinasewich, this marks a return to familiar territory. Between 2010 and 2016, he played in the win2day ICE Hockey League, suiting up for teams such as Zagreb, Salzburg, Graz, Dornbirn, and Fehérvár. Now he returns as head coach – with one clear goal: bringing Innsbruck back to the playoffs.

“I was really impressed by the changes and the vision in Innsbruck. The organization is clearly committed to making HCI successful again,” said Kinasewich. He was particularly convinced by the talks with the club's management and the clear drive for continued development. He’ll be supported on the bench by Assistant Coach Nino Pedevilla.

Personal recommendations also played a part in his decision: “I obviously spoke with Mitch O’Keefe, who I played with. He had nothing but great things to say about the city and the organization.”

And for Kinasewich and his family, Innsbruck is already familiar ground: “Since I’ve played in this league, I know how beautiful Innsbruck and Austria are. My wife and I are beyond excited to come back.”