Dustin Ruehle Named Youth Coach Of The Year

May 27, 2009 - National Lacrosse League (NLL) Colorado Mammoth

DENVER - It was announced today Dustin Ruehle, head coach of the Panthers' third-grade team in the Colorado Youth Lacrosse Association, has been named the inaugural Colorado Mammoth Youth Lacrosse Coach of the Year. In the month-long competition featuring nominations from the state's youth lacrosse playing population and their families, Ruehle came out the victor.

"The passion in the nominations we received for Coach Ruehle was nothing short of overwhelming," Mammoth general manager Steve Govett said. "It was evident that Dustin has played an instrumental role in his players' lives, and that he is making each of them better individuals. You couldn't ask for anything more from a youth lacrosse coach."

Ruehle was also recognized at halftime of the Men's Collegiate Lacrosse Association Division 1 national championship game at Dick's Sporting Goods Park on May 16. The coach said he was "surprised" and "in shock" when he was named the winner.

"It's a great honor because I think it's very important to be involved in youth sports," said Ruehle. "The fact that my (players and their) parents felt good enough to nominate me...it's almost an indescribable feeling."

While one of his players called Ruehle "the best lacrosse coach he's ever met," a parent spoke of the coach's impact on his son's life and the sport of lacrosse in general.

"We are so lucky for our son to have such an amazing role model outside of our family circle. Coach Ruehle is a fantastic ambassador of the sport."

As the inaugural winner of the award, Ruehle was presented with a commemorative plaque and a Mammoth team-signed jersey. He will also receive VIP accommodations at a Colorado Mammoth home game next season.

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National Lacrosse League Stories from May 27, 2009

• Dustin Ruehle Named Youth Coach Of The Year - Colorado Mammoth

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