Norfolk hires former Mount Michael coach as boys basketball coach

NORFOLK, Neb. — Norfolk is turning to a Nebraska native and former high school head coach to lead its boys basketball program.

The district announced Friday that Ryan Salsman will be the next head coach for the Panthers. He served as head coach at Mount Michael Benedictine School in Omaha for two seasons starting in 2023. The York native has also been an assistant coach at Lincoln Southeast, North Bend Central and Kearney High.

"I’m incredibly excited and grateful for this opportunity,” Salsman said in a statement. “Norfolk has a proud basketball tradition, and I look forward to building the high school program while continuing to grow and strengthen the youth program.”

Salsman replaces Ben Ries, who stepped down after one season. Ries had previous stints as boys basketball coach, girls basketball coach and activities director. Salsman will be the boys program’s third head coach in as many years.

“We are excited to have Ryan run our boys basketball program,” activities director John Erwin said. “He brings a lot of knowledge and passion for the game. We look forward to him being in Norfolk for a long time and I know he is excited to build on the program and tradition we have already established in Norfolk."

Outside of the high school ranks, Salsman has coached AAU basketball for nine seasons with Lincoln Supreme/OSA.

“Being able to build it from the youth level up is a huge bonus,” Salsman said. “I want to thank the Norfolk administration for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to lead the boys basketball program.”

Norfolk was 5-17 this past season.