San Diego Gulls (1990–1995)
The San Diego Gulls (1990–1995) were a professional ice hockey team based in San Diego, California. They played in the International Hockey League (IHL) during those years. The team was owned by Larry Goichman and coached by Rick Dudley, later replaced by Ron Smith. They played their home games at the San Diego Sports Arena.
The Gulls were known for their exciting style of play and their popularity within the San Diego sports community. While they never won a Turner Cup championship, they consistently made the playoffs and developed a strong fan base. Notable players who skated for the Gulls during this era included Len Hachborn, Yves Racine, and Stephane Morin. The team folded in 1995 due to financial issues related to league stability and rising operational costs. The team's legacy contributed to the continued popularity of hockey in Southern California, paving the way for future Gulls teams and other hockey franchises in the region.