Seals add Watson, Locker to Lacrosse Operations Staff

The San Diego Seals announced today that the team has added Bob Watson and Doug Locker to the lacrosse operations staff. Hall of Fame goaltender Bob Watson, affectionately known as Whipper, will serve as the team’s first-ever goaltending coach. Doug Locker was named the Seals’ Director of Lacrosse Analytics.

Watson is one of the most highly regarded goaltenders in league history. He is a six-time NLL champion, two-time NLL Championship MVP and two-time NLL Goaltender of the Year. Watson appeared in 213 career games boasting a 105-66 record. He finished his career with an 11.14 goals against average and .769 save percentage.

“We’re proud to welcome Whipper to our staff,” said General Manager and Head Coach Patrick Merrill. “To put it simply, he’s one of the all-time greats. He’s a winner, he’s competitive and knows what it takes to be successful in this league. We’re excited for him to work with Frankie and the young goalies. I’ve known him for a long time and can’t wait to get going.”

Watson was inducted into the NLL Hall of Fame after retiring in 2011. He was the only inductee in his class and received 86% of the votes. Watson was the third goaltender to be inducted into the NLL Hall of Fame.

“I’m very excited about my new position with the Seals,” said Watson. “I’m grateful for the opportunity [Patrick] and his staff have provided. I look forward to working with the goaltenders and hope to help them bring a championship to the City of San Diego.”

Locker served as a general manager in the National Lacrosse League for ten years and was named the 2013 NLL General Manager of the Year. Under his direction, his club won the 2010 NLL Championship and reached the title game in 2011 and 2013. A 15-year NLL executive, Locker was chairman of the NLL Competition Committee. He previously served as the Seals’ broadcast color analyst.

“Doug brings experience to our staff,” said Merrill. “He’s going to give us a deep dive into the analytics of our players and the game. He’s detailed, knowledgeable and truly cares about this team. He wants to win as bad as the rest of us.”

Listen to Bob Watson talk about his new role & more on the latest Seals Pod. For breaking news and updates, follow us on social @SealsLax. The Seals return to Pechanga Arena for Opening Night on December 3. Reserve your seats today at SealsLax.com.