Ryan Delaney (left) will rejoin the Yarmouth hockey program next season. (file photo)

Former Yarmouth standout returns to alma mater as coach

Ryan Delaney, who skated into legend after leading the Yarmouth hockey team to the 2001 Class B state championship, will return to the Clippers as associate head coach, Yarmouth head coach Marc Halsted announced last week.

Delaney had over 100 goals and over 200 points during his playing career and will forever be remembered for his epic double-overtime game-winning goal against Falmouth in the 2001 Western Class B Final and his hat trick against Gardiner in the state game. He worked as an assistant with Scott Rousseau and the always potent Falmouth program the past two seasons.

Now, he’s returning to his roots.

“There will be some work cut out, but I’m excited for the challenge and this opportunity,” Delaney said. “I understand there’s some talent coming up through the program.”

The Yarmouth program has struggled in recent seasons, including a 4-12-2 mark this past winter. The Clippers have qualified for the playoffs just once in the past four seasons and haven’t enjoyed a winning mark since 2003-04.

“The title of associate head coach is an indication of both the faith I have in Ryan as a dynamic young coach and a firm statement of the significant part Ryan wants to play with our program,” Halsted said. “Ryan will have the opportunity to help shape our offensive scheme, the power play and many of our core systems and concepts. I have tremendous faith in Ryan and firmly believe he’ll bring a certain intensity, passion and knowledge to Yarmouth hockey.”

Delaney graduated from Hobart College and works for the Portland Pirates in corporate sales. He said he enjoyed his time with Falmouth and is looking forward to the new opportunity.

“I learned in my experience with Falmouth,” Delaney said, “Scott was really supportive. In getting to know Marc over the past month, I really look forward to working with him.”

Rest assured, the Yarmouth community will be very excited to have a legend back in the fold.

“We are extremely excited to have Ryan Delaney back in Clipperland,” said Yarmouth athletic director Susan Robbins. “He brings a sound knowledge of the game and has a true passion for ice hockey. Additionally, he is an alumnus and vested in the success of our program. We have always had good luck with former alums coaching in our programs and feel very fortunate to welcome Ryan back!”

Sports Editor Michael Hoffer can be reached at mhoffer@theforecaster.net