In a time when the San Jose Sharks were searching for identity and inspiration, their head coach, Ryan Warsofsky, delivered both, halfway across the world in Stockholm, Sweden. He guided Team USA to a historic 1-0 overtime victory over Switzerland in the 2025 IIHF World Championship final. Warsofsky ended a 92-year gold medal drought for the Americans, marking a huge moment for U.S. hockey.
At just age 37, Warsofsky is the NHL’s youngest head coach. Not only that, but he has been tasked with steering the rebuilding of the Sharks. Yet, his leadership on the international level showcased his ability to take a group of NHL players and mold them into a cohesive unit.
“No one was bigger than the team,” Warsofsky said. “It took guys falling into roles that they’re probably a little bit different than what they play in the National Hockey League.”
This was evident as Team USA navigated the tournament.
Warsofsky’s approach went beyond tactics and line changes. He maintained a culture of connection.
“You’re with each other 24/7 for two and a half weeks. You really bond … You know their kids’ names, where they grew up, their hobbies,” he shared, describing the depth of relationships formed during the tournament.
The team’s chemistry was palpable, perhaps even created by off-ice activities.
“A lot of poker games. These guys were really into poker… Maybe that’s what helped our group,” Warsofsky told the media.
The gold medal game was a payoff for patience and perseverance. Scoreless through regulation, it was forward Tage Thompson who etched his name into history, netting the overtime winner just over two minutes into the extra period.
For Warsofsky, the victory was more than just a professional milestone.
“Goose bumps … We wanted to hear our anthem in Sweden when there were only about 40 Americans in the building,” he reflected.
As Warsofsky returns to San Jose, gold medal and all, the Sharks organization and its fans have a reason to be optimistic. His success on the world stage is a glimmer of what’s possible, even in the middle of a rebuild.
“I’m so glad I’m American. I’m glad for the freedoms that we have. I think it’s the greatest place in the world,” Warsofsky proclaimed. Something that resonates deeply as he brings a piece of international glory back to the Bay Area.
In Warsofsky, the Sharks have more than a coach; they have a leader who knows how to build, inspire, and win. The gold is just the beginning.
