The Minnesota Wilderness announced this week that Sam Graham will succeed Zachary Stepan as the franchise’s ninth head coach, marking a new chapter for the team ahead of the upcoming season.
A Fresh Coaching Direction
Graham arrives after a two‑year tenure as an assistant with the Dubuque Fighting Saints, where he helped the club top the NAHL in scoring with 271 goals and a 27.8 percent power‑play conversion rate.
Prior to Dubuque, Graham served on the staff of the Anchorage Wolverines, where his defensive schemes contributed to a 90 percent penalty‑kill efficiency and a run to the Robertson Cup semifinals.
General manager Brandon Ferns praised Graham’s blend of offensive acumen and player relationships, noting that the coach’s demeanor mirrors that of his predecessor, Stepan, who stepped down to lead Augsburg University.
Owner Barry Bohman echoed the sentiment, describing Graham as the “perfect fit” to maintain the Wilderness’s fast‑paced, skilled style while building on the high‑scoring offense that defined the 2025‑26 campaign.
Ferns highlighted that Graham’s hiring aligns with the organization’s goal of preserving a high‑tempo game, a philosophy that helped the Wilderness lead the league with 249 regular‑season goals.
Training Camp and Vision
The new coach will get his first look at the roster during the team’s main training camp, scheduled for July 16‑19 at Cottage Grove Arena in Cottage Grove, Minnesota.
Graham expressed excitement about the opportunity, stating he looks forward to shaping a squad that plays with speed and skill, and to continue the franchise’s tradition of competitive hockey.
Dubbed the ninth coach in the Wilderness’ NAHL history, Graham inherits a roster that has already demonstrated depth on both ends of the ice, a foundation he hopes to expand.
Endorsements and Expectations
Both Evan Dixon, head coach of Dubuque, and Jamie Kompon of the Florida Panthers have publicly endorsed Graham, citing his extensive coaching knowledge and ability to connect with players as key assets for the Wilderness.