Kirsch Hired as Head Men's Basketball Coach
FORT DODGE, Iowa - Iowa Central Community College is excited to announce the hiring of Ryan Kirsch as new head coach of the Triton Men's Basketball program.
Kirsch brings 10 years of collegiate basketball experience to Iowa Central. He joins the Triton staff after stints as assistant coach at University of Minnesota Duluth (2022-2024) and Kirkwood Community College (2018-2022).
An Iowa native, Kirsch earned a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering from Iowa State University and holds a master's degree in sports administration and leadership from Augustana University in Sioux Falls, SD.
During his time at UMD, Kirsch helped lead his team to its first ever NCAA Division II Elite Eight appearance in 2023. While at Kirkwood, Kirsch was part of a coaching staff that led the Eagles to the school's third NJCAA national championship and three ICCAC Conference titles. He served as student assistant to the Iowa State University Men's Basketball program from 2014-2016 under the leadership of TJ Otzelberger and Fred Hoiberg.
As one of the premier junior colleges in the nation fielding athletic teams in over 30 sports with more than 75 national championships, Kirsch stated that he was impressed with all that Iowa Central has to offer and looks forward to building the basketball program.
"During the hiring process, something that resonated with us was just how successful of an athletic department Iowa Central has. We are confident we can bring that same type of success to men's basketball," said Kirsch. "I believe in the administration's vision for the future of the program, and I am truly humbled to be in this position."
"We are beyond excited that we were able to secure the services of Ryan Kirsch to lead our Men's Basketball Program," said Iowa Central Athletic Director Kevin Twait. "Ryan's track record of successful recruiting and player development will propel our program to greater heights. He will build a culture and environment that student-athletes will want to be a part of. We had several tremendous applicants for this position and Ryan surfaced as the cream of the crop. "We are anxious for the 2024-25 basketball season to get here."
In addition to coaching, Kirsch brings extensive knowledge in recruiting, player development, scouting, travel and logistics, camps, video editing and graphic design.
Kirsch is married to his high school sweetheart, Branygon. They are the parents of a daughter, 2-year-old Kollyns.
"I am honored to be chosen as the next head men's basketball coach at Iowa Central Community College," Kirsch said. "I would like to thank President Dr. Jesse Ulrich and Athletic Director Kevin Twait for this incredible opportunity. My family and I are eager to get to Fort Dodge, engage in the community, and get to work."`