Monterey Bay F.C. names Simon Dawkins interim head coach

SEASIDE, Calif. (KION) - A day after Monterey Bay F.C. parted ways with Frank Yallop, the club has named Simon Dawkins the club's interim head coach.

Dawkins also announced his retirement Thursday, bringing his 20-year career in professional soccer to an end.

Since 2022, he's played with the Crisp and Kelp, netting one of the most memorable goals in franchise history- an equalizer against LAFC in the 2023 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. But recently, Dawkins has been sidelined throughout the 2024 campaign, dealing with a knee injury. It was that injury that Dawkins cited as a factor in the decision.

"I know the timing is right," Dawkins said. "My body is telling me that, and I am just thankful that I am still here at Monterey Bay and I can still give back to the younger guys. I am really happy about it."

Dawkins will assume head coaching duties immediately and will be at the helm for the side's match against the Tampa Bay Rowdies on Saturday, August 3.

Yallop's successor is expected to be announced on the following Monday.