He had already established a name for himself as one of the top amateur players in the world with his outstanding play during international competition over the past few years.
As a freshman with the University of Wisconsin, the Madison native had an impressive performance at the 2004 World Junior Championships (WJC), as the United States won its first-ever gold medal.
Suter decided to forego his remaining years in the NCAA to go pro. He started the 2004-05 season in the AHL with the Milwaukee Admirals.
Ryan tallied 7 points in his first 16 pro games, and was just growing accustomed to the AHL when his country called upon him once again.
In December, Suter was named captain as Team USA set out to defend its WJC title. He led his squad to the bronze-medal game before falling in overtime to the Czech Republic.
Although disappointed with the team’s outcome, Suter led all tournament defensemen in scoring with eight points (1g-7a) in seven games and earned a spot on the All-Tournament team.
Ryan is an excellent skater who possesses great puck-handling and passing skills. Just shy of his 20th birthday, he has great anticipation and can read plays quite well.
“He’s going to be a star in the NHL,” states once source. “Ryan is the type of player that can dominate with his overwhelming skill and great overall sense for the game.”
While many players can make the rightful claim to have hockey in their blood, Ryan actually has it in his DNA.
His father, Bob Suter, won a gold medal in the 1980 Olympics with the USA “Miracle on Ice” National Team, while uncle Gary enjoyed a distinguished 17-year career in the NHL, winning the Calder Trophy in 1986 and a Stanley Cup in 1989 as a member of the Calgary Flames.
Once play gets underway again, expect Ryan to add plenty to the Suter legacy with a successful NHL career of his own.
