Ryan Watson (ice hockey)

Ryan Watson (born June 12, 1981) is a Canadian-born Italian former professional ice hockey player. He played the prime of his career in Italy's Serie A.

Playing career
Watson began his career in 1998 playing for his local team, the Lethbridge Hurricanes at junior level in the WHL. Watson did not start particularly well though, and managed just one point in 22 games in his first season.

For the 2000–01 season, Watson played at the lower junior level of the AJHL for the Drayton Valley Thunder. His performances were much improved, and a ratio of over a point per game was established during a season in which Watson played almost 60 times totalling over 100 points.

Watson began his professional career with the Oklahoma City Blazers of the CHL. He settled well and established himself as an important first team player, turning out in 118 games in the two seasons, and totalling 74 points in that time. His performances brought him to the attention of the Victoria Salmon Kings. The Salmon Kings signed Watson for the 2004–05 season. Watson managed 33 games and 29 points.

Despite his positive points return, he did not re-sign with the Salmon Kings and so returned to the CHL with the then named Memphis Riverkings. Watson again proved his quality, totalling 59 points in 64 games. In the summer of 2006, Watson moved to Europe and was signed by the Manchester Phoenix of the EIHL, the highest tier of club hockey in Britain. However, Watson played in only 10 games for the Phoenix before returning to North America.

On his return he re-signed for one of his old teams, the Oklahoma City Blazers. Watson continued to score points regularly for the Blazers throughout both the regular and post-season periods, managing a point per game ratio. This productivity meant that the Blazers re-signed Watson for the 2007–08 season. It was again a positive season for Watson, who scored 55 points in 63 games.

He returned to Europe and Italy to sign for Cortina SG of the Serie A. Despite the language barrier, Watson settled well and began once again to clock up regular goals and assists. Watson began to play for the Italian nation team and became a pivotal player in there success to winning a world championship. After four seasons in Italy, Watson announced his retirement from professional hockey at the conclusion of the 2011–12 season, finishing his career with three world championships, multiple team championships and individual awards. After retirement Watson was inducted into the Lethbridge Sports Hall of Fame in 2013.