Veltman and Watson Named Franchise Players for TO

TORONTO – Jim “Scoop” Veltman and Bob “Whipper” Watson were both named franchise players with the Toronto Rock today.

Veltman and Watson have both won five National Lacrosse League championships with the Rock in 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 and 2005.

In 115 regular season games with the Rock, Veltman has collected 1,499 loose balls. He has over 2,000 in both regular season and post-season games. He also has 86 goals, 289 assists for 375 points. He is the all-time pro lacrosse leader in loose balls.

Watson is touted by many as the league’s best big-game goaltender. He has numerous accolades ranging from all-star appearances to selection to the league’s all-pro team. Both Watson and Veltman have played their entire NLL careers in Toronto.

Head coach Glenn Clark is thrilled to have both players back in 2007.

“I think Bobby is the best big-game goalie out there,” said Clark, who won five NLL championships with both Watson and Veltman as a player. “There’s nobody else I’d want in net in a big game situation.”

“Without a doubt, Jim is the best player in the world,” Clark added. “He’s the best.”