The American Hockey League’s San Diego Gulls announced a significant leadership change this week, naming Dave Manson as their new head coach.
Manson, 59, brings a quarter‑century of coaching experience, having spent the last 24 years in various assistant and associate roles across the Western Hockey League and the AHL.
His most recent stint was as an assistant with the Gulls during the previous season, a period in which the club advanced to the Calder Cup Playoffs.
Before that, Manson served four seasons with the Bakersfield Condors and was elevated to the Edmonton Oilers’ bench in February 2022 under head coach Jay Woodcroft.
Manson’s playing career spanned 16 professional seasons and 1,103 NHL games, giving him a deep understanding of the game’s demands.
Joining him on the Gulls’ staff are veteran assistants Kelly Buchberger and Steve McCarthy, each of whom adds a wealth of experience from their own extensive coaching backgrounds.
Buchberger, who most recently coached the Laval Rocket, spent 13 years within the Edmonton Oilers organization before that.
McCarthy, a former Columbus Blue Jackets stalwart, brings a decade of development work from the Blue Jackets system, having played 191 AHL games and 302 NHL appearances.
The appointments signal the Ducks’ intent to blend proven expertise with fresh perspectives as the Gulls aim to contend for the Calder Cup in the upcoming season.
A Strategic Move for Anaheim’s Development Pipeline
Anaheim’s decision to promote Manson reflects a broader strategy to cultivate talent within its AHL affiliate, ensuring a seamless transition for prospects ready for NHL competition.
The organization’s leadership believes that Manson’s blend of playing pedigree and coaching acumen will foster a competitive culture and accelerate player development.
Fans can expect a style of play that emphasizes structure, discipline, and the aggressive forechecking that characterized Manson’s on‑ice approach during his playing days.
The Gulls’ front office expressed confidence that the new coaching trio will keep the team competitive and ready to chase the franchise’s first playoff berth since its relocation.