Jan. 25, 2006

Fullerton, Calif. -

All-American Eddie Soto helped the Cal State Fullerton men's soccer program gain national prominence as a player a decade ago and he will again try to help the Titans get back to that level as he returns for his second stint as an assistant coach.

Soto, 33, fills the position vacated when Bob Ammann was promoted to head coach in December. Soto has been an assistant to women's soccer coach Mauricio Ingrassia at Long Beach State the past two seasons. He assisted Coach Al Mistri at Fullerton for the 2001 through 2003 seasons before budget cuts eliminated his position.

"I'm really looking forward to helping rebuild this program," said Soto. "As a player I came here with every intention of putting this program on the map. To be able to come back as a coach and get that opportunity again is very exciting.

"There's no reason why the Titans aren't fighting for a conference title or a national championship every year. With the tremendous growth of the university, support from administration, our location and a stadium being second to none, one has all the ingredients in line to be competitive. As Bob takes us into a new era, we will do everything we can to raise the level of this program and bring back some excitement to this men's program."

"I feel very lucky to have added such a great young coach," said Ammann. "Eddie has all the attributes that will positively affect our student athletes. His integrity and morals are to be admired. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will benefit everyone associated with the program.

"Eddie understands what it takes to be successful and will be a great mentor to our players. Eddie has the same feelings and expectations for the program's direction that I do and I couldn't be happier to have him a part of my staff."

Soto scored 38 goals and totaled 96 points in the 1992 through 1994 seasons for the Titans and ranks No. 2 in career scoring behind Duncan Oughton (41 goals and 97 points in the 1997-2000 seasons). Soto still holds the single-season record for goals with 18 in 1994. He was a second-team All-American in 1992 by the National Soccer Coaches Association and eaerned honorable mention honors from Soccer News in 1993 when he led the Titans to the "Final Four" of the NCAA Tournament.

Soto's professional career has taken him all over the world. He was drafted twice into the MLS by the New York Metro Stars in 1996 and the San Jose Clash in 1998. He also played for the Orange County Zodiac of the A-League, Los Angeles Cobras of the USISL and ended his career with the USA Pro Beach Soccer Team.

Soto was the CIF 3-A Player of the Year in 1990 at Cerritos High School. He ws a member of tahe U.S. under-18 and under-20 national teams and began his collegiate career with one season at Chapman University in 1991. He and his wife, Stephanie, live in Long Beach with sons Fabrizio and Wyatt and daughter Isabela.