A New Leadership Era for the San Diego Gulls
The San Diego Gulls have named Dave Manson as their new head coach, marking the sixth individual to hold the position in franchise history and the first to transition directly from a extensive coaching career into the role.
Manson arrives with nearly 25 years of coaching experience, having served stints with the Edmonton Oilers, the Bakersfield Condors and the Prince Albert Raiders, where he helped shape prospects such as Evan Bouchard, Philip Broberg and Leon Draisaitl.
A Proven Track Record of Success
Under Manson's guidance, the Gulls posted an eighth‑best penalty kill at 83.5% and were the second‑least penalized team in the AHL, underscoring his emphasis on discipline and special‑teams play.
A Veteran Coaching Staff
Joining Manson are assistants Kelly Buchberger and Steve McCarthy, each bringing decades of NHL and minor‑league experience. Buchberger, a two‑time Stanley Cup champion with the Oilers, previously served as an assistant with the Edmonton Oilers and helped the Laval Rocket reach the Eastern Conference Final in 2022. McCarthy, who spent recent seasons with the Columbus Blue Jackets overseeing defense and the penalty kill, also contributed to Team Canada’s staff at the 2025 World Championship.
Goaltending coach Jeff Glass and video coordinator Lucas Hurtt round out a staff that blends on‑ice expertise with analytical support, positioning the Gulls for continued growth within the Anaheim Ducks development pathway.
The Gulls, the primary AHL affiliate of the Anaheim Ducks, will look to build on the foundation laid by Manson and his crew as they aim to compete for a Calder Cup while providing a steady pipeline of talent to the NHL.