Newman to Get New Contract as Socker Coach

The Sockers have called a news conference for 9 this morning, when Oscar Ancira Jr., the club’s managing general partner, is expected to announce the signing of Coach Ron Newman.

Newman said he was going over the contract Tuesday afternoon and that he probably would sign it today.

Newman has been the only constant in the Sockers’ string of nine championships in 10 years. Yet the Sockers’ only coach since the team moved indoors in 1980 said he will accept a pay cut from his previous salary.

He said he felt obligated to do so since the players’ union earlier agreed to a reduction in the salary cap to keep the financially struggling league afloat.

Newman was near agreement with the new ownership in early July, but completion of the deal was held up because of uncertainty about the future of the league.

The Sockers made other announcements concerning training camp and their schedule.

Their annual invitational tryout begins Sept. 16 at their Folsom’s practice rink. Veterans will report Sept. 23.

The Sockers, who have yet to sign any players, have received applications from more than 300 players representing 23 countries. Newman and assistant coach Erich Geyer have invited 65 hopefuls to the week-long tryout.