INDOOR SOCCER

The Sockers’ front office upheaval continued with Tim Latta taking over as general manager in place of Fred Whitacre, who was fired.

Latta, who began in 1983-84 as an account executive, and Coach Ron Newman are the team’s only employees as it begins its transition into the Continental Indoor Soccer League.

“It was by mutual consent, due to a difference in managerial philosophy, that I have asked Fred to tender his resignation,” Oscar Ancira, managing general partner, said in a news release. “As we enter a new league and a new era, I felt it was important to make the move with Tim. He has an incredible amount of hands-on knowledge regarding all franchise operations and he brings with him nine years of indoor soccer experience.”

Whitacre, who was hired in April, appeared to depart amicably.

“It was a bit of a shock,” Whitacre said. “My biggest disappointment is that I didn’t have more time. In five months we’ve been in two leagues and lost 85% of our office space. The truth also is that Oscar is an excellent owner, and I think Tim can give him more of what Oscar wants in a GM than I could.”

Latta already has established several goals in preparation of the team’s first summer indoor season.

“Our game plan and priorities for the first month,” Latta said, “will be to establish our 1993 season ticket prices and benefits, finalize our radio broadcast agreement, complete our corporate sales presentation and begin re-staffing the club.”