(Walpole, MA) -- Rob Barletta, owner of RB Hockey, Northeast Elite Hockey and the Walpole Express, today named Patrick Watson head goaltending instructor for these organizations. In this role, Watson will oversee all goalie-related activities, including instruction for the hockey schools, and coaching and scouting for the Walpole Express, a member of the AJHL and MJHL. Watson and his experienced staff will teach vital techniques in a style that attuned to individual players based on age, ability and hockey experience.

“We are thrilled to have a goalie coach of Patrick’s caliber on our team,” Barletta said. “I know he will provide a safe, informative and enjoyable learning environment for our students, and will help our organization excel in the area of goalie development and excellence.”

About Patrick Watson
A Waltham, Mass. native, Watson grew up playing in the Waltham Youth Hockey Association, for which he won numerous district titles and a state title. He also participated in three national championship tournaments and the Quebec International Tournament as a member of the Boston Jr. Bruins Selects.

At Waltham Senior High School he was a four-year letter winner. He was chosen as MVP in both his junior and senior years, and was named to the Boston Globe and Boston Herald’s dream teams in his senior season. He also attended Hockey Night in Boston for four years, winning the top goaltender award in Div. 1 high school hockey in his final year.

Upon graduation, Watson spent an interim year at Connecticut’s Pomfret School, where he led the team to its best single-season record in 20 years and received MVP honors. Watson played two years in the elite United States Hockey League, the nation’s premier junior A hockey association. He spent the first of his two seasons with Iowa’s Des Moines Buccaneers, where he backstopped the team into the playoffs. In his second season, Watson suited up for Indiana’s Indianapolis Ice and again propelled the new franchise into the post-season. Afterwards, he moved on to Merrimack College, where he was a four-year letter winner earning numerous honors from the Hockey East Conference. Watson recently graduated earning a degree in business and political science.

Though his promising playing career was cut short due to injury, his love and passion for the game has not diminished. As a coach, Watson will share his experiences and appreciation for the game with his players. “I am excited about the opportunity to mold and guide young goaltenders so that they can accomplish their dreams,” Watson said. “My mission is to teach players about the game all the while stressing the importance of hard work and focus while maintaining an element of fun in the mix. I believe that anyone can reach the goals they have set, if they are willing to push themselves and strive to be the best they possibly can be. A strong mind makes for a great athlete.”