APSL West Loses Another Team as Emperors Fold

Executives of the California Emperors have followed owners of the Los Angeles Heat and folded their American Professional Soccer League West team.

“We decided because so many teams are dropping out of the league that it was not in the best interest of (our shareholders) to go ahead with this season,” said President Dean Foley, an Inglewood businessman.

Several South Bay players were under contract to the Emperors, including former Cal State Dominguez Hills goalie Chris Wilson and current Toro assistant Coach Alberto Bru.

The Redlands-based Southern Division champions are the sixth APSL West team to fold since the league’s season ended in September.