Miscellany

Despite two failed attempts, the American Pro Soccer League again will try to establish a team in the Los Angeles area.

Bill Sage, APSL commissioner, said that a Whittier ophthalmologist, William de la Pena, has been awarded an expansion team, which is expected to play exhibitions this summer and begin league play in 1993.

Sage said Mayor Tom Bradley introduced de la Pena to Alan Rothenberg, an L.A. lawyer and president of the U.S. Soccer Federation, who recommended de la Pena as a potential owner.

Until last year, the APSL had two L.A.-area teams, the Los Angeles Heat and the California Emperors. But those teams were among several that folded when the APSL sought larger financial commitments.

The APSL begins the 1992 season in May with five teams. But Sage said the league would like to have eight or nine teams before the 1993 season. De la Pena has not arranged for a field, but Sage said it is possible the team will use more than one stadium for its home games.