Full Breakdown
UCLA Athletics Welcomes New Coaching Talent
1/27/2026, 4:30:00 AM
Erik Holt Joins UCLA Men's Soccer Staff
The UCLA men's soccer program has announced the hiring of Erik Holt as an assistant coach. Head coach Ryan Jorden expressed enthusiasm about Holt's return, highlighting his deep connection to the university as a former team captain and player. Holt, who previously served as an assistant coach at Loyola Marymount University in 2025, played professionally for Real Salt Lake in Major League Soccer for six years. During his time at LMU, he contributed to the success of players like Anthony Boyadjian, Ismail Nieves, and Nathan Rodrigues, who received all-conference honors. Holt remarked on his return, stating, "It's an incredible honor to return to UCLA, a place that shaped me as a player and a person."
Holt's collegiate career at UCLA spanned from 2015 to 2018, where he made 71 appearances and helped the Bruins reach the NCAA Tournament three times. He was recognized as a two-time All-Pac 12 first-team selection and earned All-Far West Region first-team honors in 2018.
Ethan Garbers Begins Coaching Career at Corona Del Mar
Ethan Garbers, a former UCLA quarterback, has returned to his high school alma mater, Corona Del Mar, to serve as the team's quarterbacks coach for the 2026 season. After going undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft and signing with the Carolina Panthers, Garbers transitioned to coaching following a brief stint with the Madrid Bravos in the European Football League. His high school career was marked by impressive statistics, including 9,462 passing yards and 128 touchdown passes, leading to a perfect senior season and a CIF Division 1-A state title.
At UCLA, Garbers played in 40 games, accumulating 4,462 passing yards and 31 touchdowns. In 2023, he played a pivotal role in leading the Bruins to an 8-5 season and an LA Bowl victory, earning MVP honors in the process. As Garbers steps into his coaching role, he faces the challenge of filling the shoes of the departed quarterback Brady Annett, who had a standout season in 2025.
Official Statements & Responses
Both Erik Holt and Ethan Garbers expressed gratitude for their new roles. Holt emphasized the legacy of UCLA men's soccer and his commitment to upholding its standards, while Garbers highlighted his excitement to contribute to the development of young athletes at Corona Del Mar.
Criticism & Opposition
While both hires have been met with enthusiasm, some critics question the effectiveness of transitioning from player to coach, suggesting that the skills required for coaching differ significantly from those needed for playing. However, both Holt and Garbers have demonstrated a strong understanding of their respective sports, which may mitigate these concerns.
What's Next
As both Holt and Garbers embark on their coaching journeys, they will be expected to leverage their experiences to foster talent and success within their programs. The upcoming seasons will reveal the impact of their leadership on the UCLA men's soccer team and Corona Del Mar football.
