Pali Blues Merge with LA Strikers

Since its debut in 2008 the Pali Blues Soccer Club has represented Pacific Palisades with pride, winning three W-League championships in six years.

It was announced Monday that the team is merging with the league’s other Los Angeles-area franchise, LA Strikers FC, to form a new Western Conference powerhouse in 2014: the LA Blues Soccer Club.

“On behalf of the Mansouri family, I want to express our excitement,” said team manager Charlie Naimo, who will be assisted by Strikers head coach Tracey Kevins. “Many of us are still shaken by the loss of the LA Sol and a professional women’s soccer team in Southern California. I’m confident this merger is a major step in filling that void for all the local fans.”

Last summer, the Blues played five home games at Stadium by the Sea on their way to the league title and though the Blues will no longer be playing at Palisades High, they will continue to train there. The Pali Blues attracted top college and international stars, including Palisadians Ali Riley (Stanford and New Zealand national team) and Amanda Lisberger (University of Texas).

“I’m incredibly excited about the potential for this new team,” LA Blues co-owner Steve Miller said. “Having Charlie managing and Tracey directing the team is an owner’s dream. I can’t wait to show what women’s soccer is all about.”

The Blues fell just short of the league crown in 2012, losing in a penalty kick shootout, but redeemed themselves in July with a 1-0 victory over the Laval Comets in the championship game in Bradenton, Florida. The Strikers joined the W-League in 2010 and finished the 2013 with a record of 8-4-0, including two wins against the Blues.

“I’m really happy to be working with Charlie,” said Kevins, who will serve as technical director. “With his recruiting prowess and my coaching ability, we have the makings of a strong team both on and off the field.”

Follow the Blues on Twitter (@LABluesSC) and Facebook (facebook.com/PaliBluesSoccer) or visit bluessoccerclub.com.