Ervine Returns to Replace Fulton as Splash Coach

NEWPORT BEACH — Dale Ervine, who once was traded by the Splash after falling into disfavor with the coach, has been named the team’s third coach in four years, team president Gary Sparks announced Tuesday.

The Splash will petition the Continental Indoor Soccer League to allow Ervine, 32, to be player-coach. Washington’s Jim Gabarra was a player-coach last year.

“It’s all happened pretty quickly; how could I not be excited about taking the coaching job, and playing for the team, and being involved in soccer on a year-round basis again in an area where I grew up and learned soccer,” said Ervine, the Splash’s all-time leading scorer. “I’m very much looking forward to facing the challenge and hopefully being successful at it.”

Ervine replaces Ian Fulton, who left the Splash to become coach at Portland.

Ervine was drafted in 1986 from UCLA, which he led to an NCAA title. An 11-year indoor veteran, he also played outdoors with the Salsa and made several appearances with the U.S. national team.

Last season, Ervine finished fourth in points (69) and second in goals (45). He was traded during the 1995 season after falling out of favor with then-coach George Fernandez.