IRVINE, Calif. --- The United Women's Soccer league is adding the Irvine-based LA Galaxy OC women's squad to its ranks this summer to be manned by UCI's very own head coach, Scott Juniper.

UWS fills that gap with a Summer season that helps the collegiate players enhance their skills for Fall competition while giving the post-collegiate player a chance to further develop for the professional & international game.

Coach Juniper will take the reins during the college offseason before returning to the Anteater sideline in the fall for his 13th season with the program and 12th as the 'Eaters' head coach.

"It is a privilege to be given the opportunity to lead the LA Galaxy Orange County women's team this summer," coach Juniper said in an announcement released by the club Friday morning. "Living in Orange County for 15 years, I have watched the enormous talent pool that develops here, which is a huge credit to the thousands of coaches and volunteers who have built such an amazing soccer framework for these players to enjoy. I am energized to bring those players together this summer to represent Orange County and hope that our soccer community can enjoy watching them play and celebrate what they have all achieved."

In addition to his time as a college head coach, Juniper has worked extensively with the Olympic Development Program and has served as a scout and assistant coach for the US Soccer Youth National Team program for a number of years. He also holds the U.S. Soccer Federation "A" coaching license, UEFA "B" license, USSF National Youth License, NSCAA Goalkeeper license, and a Speed, Agility and Quickness trainer accreditation.

The UWS season begins in May and will run through to mid-July for approximately an 8-game season, and LAGOC will play their matches out of the Irvine Great Park. More details and full schedule to come.