Tom Fitzgerald named head coach of UCLA’s men’s soccer program

Columbus Crew Tom Fitzgerald

By J.P. Hoornstra
Daily Bruin Senior Staff

Tom Fitzgerald, who served as head coach of Major League
Soccer’s Columbus Crew from 1996-2001, was named head coach
of UCLA’s men’s soccer team Tuesday.

“It is truly an honor to become the next head coach of the
UCLA Bruins, and I look forward to the challenge,” Fitzgerald
said in a statement.

The Crew compiled a 70-67-7 record in Fitzgerald’s five
seasons as head coach, reaching the Eastern Conference finals three
years in a row (1997-99) under his watch. Columbus advanced to the
U.S. Open Cup Finals in 1998.

Fitzgerald was let go by Columbus six games into the 2001 season
after going 1-3-2.

He replaces Todd Saldaña, who stepped down as head coach
Jan. 31. UCLA decided not to renew Saldaña’s contract
after learning he had obtained his bachelor’s degree from
Columbia State University, identified as a diploma mill.

Fitzgerald graduated from the University of South Florida in
1974.

“Tom’s experience as a head coach at the collegiate
and professional levels offers a perspective that is important to
the UCLA men’s soccer program,” associate athletic
director Betsy Stephenson said.

Before joining the Crew, Fitzgerald guided the University of
Tampa from 1987-96. The Spartans advanced to the NCAA Division II
Final Four in 1987 and 1992, and won the national title in 1994.
His record in nine seasons at Tampa was 132-32-11, a .754 winning
percentage.

Assistant coaches Jorge Salcedo and Peter van de Ven will stay
with the team in their current capacities.