St. Louis Ambush Head Coach Hewerton Moreira will return as a player for the 2018-19 season, Ambush CEO Shelly Clark announced today. Per team and league policies, terms of Hewerton’s player agreement were not disclosed.
Hewerton (pronounced Everton) is a veteran of 14 professional indoor soccer seasons as a player. He has played for the San Diego Sockers, Milwaukee Wave, Detroit Ignition, Philadelphia KiXX, Chicago Mustangs and Cedar Rapids Rampage. Hewerton said the 2018-19 season will be his last as a player, but he will continue as Head Coach of the Ambush beyond the upcoming season. On April 16, the team announced that his contract as Head Coach of the team was extended through the 2019-20 season.
“I’m extremely excited for the 2018-2019 season,” Hewerton said. “It will be my 15th season and my last season as a player. Three championships, a few All Star Games, a few awards were all great, but nothing beats the amazing memories and friendships I’ve made. I’m so thankful and grateful for the past 14 years I’ve shared my passion and love for this amazing sport. Although I’m sad that it will be an end of era, I’m happy that I will be dedicating myself to working hard as Head Coach to bring the great fans of St. Louis a winning team.”
Last season, Hewerton posted 33 points, consisting of 11 goals and 22 assists. He was tied for fifth in the league in the assists category. Hewerton will again serve double-duty as a player and head coach. On game days, Assistant Coach Jamie Swanner will handle official Head Coaching duties in accordance with MASL rules regarding player/coaches.
“Hewerton was an asset to the team both on and off the field last season,” Clark said. “We are working diligently to put together a successful team. While free agency didn’t have the exact outcome we had hoped for, the stability that Hewerton brings to the field is an integral part of the teams foundation for next season.”
Prior to joining the Ambush, Hewerton coached the Cedar Rapids Rampage United outdoor team two seasons and the indoor Rampage for the 2016-17 season. The Rampage United went to the Premier League of America championship semifinals both seasons.
The Ambush will kick off their 2018-19 season in December. The season will consist of 24 games, with 12 at home at the Family Arena in St. Charles.
