Mike Puhrmann, the Stillwater Area varsity offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, received the Butch Nash Award at the 59th Annual Minnesota Football Coaches Association Awards Banquet on Saturday, April 1, 2023.

This award, named after long-time Gopher assistant Coach Butch Nash, is bestowed on an ideal assistant coach who displays loyalty, competency, rapport with players and coaches, integrity, and at least 15 years of experience. In 23 years of coaching, all at Stillwater, Coach Puhrmann has served as a sophomore assistant with the last 13 as Ponies varsity offensive coordinator. With Ponies varsity, Puhrmann has assisted in five sub-district championships and the Ponies have played in seven section championships, winning a trip to the state tournament in 2022.

“Mike's commitment to continuous improvement as our offensive coordinator has developed a Ponies offense that is multiple, adaptable, and effective,” said Head Coach Beau LaBore who nominated Puhrmann. “Mike is dedicated to football and our players, is great in preparation, and over time has empowered our staff and players to take ownership of our offensive execution.”

Coach Puhrmann joins former Ponies coaches Dennis Meyer, Jerry Foley, Donn Drommerhausen, Dick Klein, Mark Elmer, Darrell Salmi, and Mark Harris as Butch Nash Award recipients.

It is a great honor to be recognized by the Minnesota Football Coaches Association and Coach LaBore. Coaching football at Stillwater is one of the highlights of my life. I am grateful to work with passionate coaches and talented players.

Congratulations Coach Puhrmann!