“I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue leading this team and to build on the foundation we’ve started,” said Huska. “I believe in this group, in their character, talent, and potential. I’m excited about the direction we are heading. I want to thank Craig, the ownership, and the entire organization for their trust and support. We are committed to pushing forward and bringing success back to Calgary.”
Over the course of his coaching career in Kelowna, the Trail, BC native helped guide his teams to four Memorial Cup appearances, winning in 2004 over the Gatineau Olympiques.
As a player, Huska spent his junior career as a teammate of former Flames captain and current special advisor to the general manager Jarome Iginla with the Kamloops Blazers, winning three Memorial Cups in 1992, 1994 and 1995, which ties a CHL record. In total, he has competed for the Memorial Cup on seven occasions, winning four titles. He has also represented Canada on three occasions as an assistant coach in 2011 and 2012 at the World Junior Championship, and as an assistant coach at the 2025 IIHF World Championships.
Huska was drafted in the third round, 76th overall, in the 1993 NHL Draft by the Chicago Blackhawks and played three years with the Hawks IHL team in Indianapolis before making his NHL debut on May 1, 1995, against Calgary. He completed his playing career in 2000 following his final two seasons with the Islanders and Coyotes AHL clubs.
Ryan and his wife Denise have two daughters Hanna and Olivia and son Luke and have called Calgary home since 2014.