Steel name Doell as new head coach

The New Ulm Steel of the NA3HL are excited to announce Curtis Doell as the Steel’s new head coach for the 2021-22 hockey season.

Doell was previously named the assistant coach for the Steel, taking on the role July 1st. Former head coach, Zach Stepan, has taken a position as assistant coach for the Aberdeen Wings of the NAHL.

Doell grew up in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. He played Midget AAA hockey for the Saskatoon Blazers then he moved on and played junior hockey in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League with the Melfort Mustangs earning defenseman of the year honors. From there he earned a scholarship to the University of Minnesota-Duluth and earned honors on the All WCHA Rookie Team. After the conclusion of his sophomore year, he signed with the Florida Panthers as a free agent. In his first year of pro hockey, he played for the Kentucky Thoroughblades in the AHL. His second season was in Louisville with the Panthers of the AHL. Unfortunately, his career was cut short due to multiple concussions.

After his playing days ended, Coach Doell decided to join the coaching ranks with the Mankato West Scarlets in the winter of December 2000. From that season forward he has coached the Scarlets as both an assistant and a head coach. He became the head coach before the 2009-10 season and for the past nine seasons, has been at the helm of the Scarlets. He has taken the Scarlets to 5 section finals and one state tournament. He has been named Section 1A coach of the year 3 times and has also coached the HP 16’s for section 1A/1AA for 3 seasons.

“I am excited for the opportunity that has been given to me from Kelly Kasik (team owner) and Mike Janda (Chippewa Steel Head Coach/GM) to become head coach at the NA3 level after coaching the high school level for 21 years. I am looking forward to continue building the community relationship and becoming part of New Ulm as a club.”

Although Doell is new to the NA3HL, he is well versed in the hockey world. His goal this season is to provide a well trained, entertaining team that is fun to watch, compete night in and night out, and an environment where the community is excited to bring their friends, family, and coworkers.