Former Top Pick Named Seals’ Head Coach

SAN DIEGO – The San Diego Seals announced today that Patrick Merrill, a defender who played 15 years in the National Lacrosse League, has been named the team’s first general manager and head coach.

“I welcome Patrick and his family to San Diego and our community of avid lacrosse fans,” said team owner Joe Tsai. “We at the Seals couldn’t be luckier to have a coach, mentor and strategist of Patrick’s quality join our organization, and we look forward to working with him to launch our inaugural season.”

The Toronto, Ontario native was the first-overall pick in the 2002 National Lacrosse League Entry Draft. He played in 194 games for Toronto, Orlando and New York, registering 18 goals, 65 assists, 570 penalty minutes and 818 face-off wins.

“The NLL is the pinnacle of the sport,” said Merrill. “I’m flattered that [Joe and president Steve Govett] have put their trust in me to lead this franchise. This really is a dream come true.”

A graduate of Mercyhurst College, Merrill won three NLL titles and four Mann Cup championships (Canadian Senior ‘A’ national) as a player.

At the international level, he was part of Team Canada’s silver-medal-winning team at the 2010 World Field Lacrosse Championships in Manchester, England. A year later, he brought home the gold at the FIL World Indoor Lacrosse Championships in Prague, Czech Republic.

Merrill, 39, has won two Minto Cups (Canadian Junior ‘A’ national championship) in the last three seasons as the head coach of the Six Nations Arrows. A co-founder and coach at The Hill Academy (Ontario), a perennial lacrosse powerhouse, Merrill claims multiple (U.S.) national titles to his resume.

More than three dozen candidates were considered. Merrill’s experience and vision ultimately won out.

“Patrick and his family have a winning pedigree,” said Govett. “Patrick’s a consummate professional who has set the standard for excellence at all levels, from playing to coaching. This was a long process – nearly eight months. Ultimately, we found the best person for the job!”

The expansion San Diego Seals will begin play in November at Valley View Casino Center. Book your priority number today by placing a season ticket membership deposit at SealsLax.com.