Group Gets O.C.’s A-League Team

The A-League announced Thursday it has awarded Orange County franchise rights to a group led by Peacock Financial, a venture capital firm in San Jacinto.

Dave Askinas, the A-League’s assistant commissioner, also announced that Rick Brown, former Zodiac president, will be the franchise’s president.

The 3-year-old Zodiac pro soccer franchise folded two weeks ago when owner John Frankhouse defaulted on a $50,000 letter of credit with the league. The new franchise, which Brown said will be called the Orange County Waves, will begin play April 9 against U.S. Pro 40 in Santa Ana Stadium.

Brown said Erik Kirsch will remain as the team’s coach. Brown plans to keep most of his staff, but he hasn’t decided on a general manager yet.

“I might be the president and general manager,” Brown said.

Peacock Financial is now involved with three teams in the A-League’s Pacific Division. The corporation recently purchased the San Francisco Bay Seals and has been a minority partner in the San Diego Flash.