MANKATO, Minn. — Minnesota State Men's Hockey Head Coach Luke Strand has announced that Associate Head Coach Troy G. Ward has resigned from his position with the Mavericks to pursue a professional coaching opportunity with the Shanghai Dragons organization competing in the KHL system and based in St. Petersburg.

Ward joined the Minnesota State coaching staff in 2023 and quickly became a key figure in one of the most successful stretches in program history.

During his time in Mankato, the Mavericks captured back-to-back MacNaughton Cup Championships, back-to-back Mason Cup Championships, and earned consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances while continuing to establish themselves among the nation's elite Division I hockey programs.

"Troy is an exceptional coach, mentor, and friend," said Strand. "His passion for the game, commitment to our student-athletes, and investment in our program have left a lasting impact on Minnesota State Hockey. We believe in continual development—for our student-athletes, coaches, and staff—and this opportunity represents another step in Troy's coaching journey. While he is moving on to a new challenge internationally, the relationships, memories, and contributions he has made here will remain a part of our program forever. Troy and Marilyn have been tremendous members of the Maverick family, and we wish them nothing but success and happiness moving forward. Troy will always be a Maverick."

Over Ward's three seasons behind the Maverick bench, Minnesota State compiled a 67-35-14 overall record and helped develop some of the most decorated student-athletes in program history.

During that span, Maverick players earned seven major conference awards, including:

• Sam Morton — CCHA Forward of the Year (2024) and CCHA Player of the Year (2024)
• Alex Tracy — CCHA Goaltender of the Year (2025) and CCHA Player of the Year (2025)
• Rhett Pitlick — CCHA Forward of the Year (2025)
• Evan Murr — CCHA Defensive Player of the Year (2025, 2026)

In addition, Tracy (2025) and Murr (2026) earned CCM/AHCA Second Team All-America honors.

Ward's influence extended well beyond championships and individual accolades. His experience, hockey acumen, and commitment to player development helped shape the culture, daily standards, and competitive identity that fueled Minnesota State's continued success on the conference and national stage.

"Troy brought a wealth of professional and collegiate experience to our staff every day," added Strand. "His ability to teach, connect with players, and challenge people to improve made our program better. We are grateful for everything he has done to help move Minnesota State Hockey forward."

"I'd like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to everyone associated with Maverick Hockey," said Ward. "To Luke Strand, our coaching staff, student-athletes, administrators, university personnel, alumni, fans, and supporters—thank you for making the last three years so special. It has been a privilege to be a part of this program and community. The memories, relationships, and accomplishments we shared will stay with me forever. Marilyn and I will always cherish our time in Mankato. Once a Maverick, always a Maverick."