No half effort: Last spring, Cal State...

No half effort: Last spring, Cal State Northridge men’s soccer Coach Marwan Ass’ad’s salary was cut in half, one of his four full scholarships was taken away and he was told to limit his schedule. To make matters worse, his team finished 4-10-2 in his 14th season as coach.

Still, Ass’ad insists things are looking up.

Ass’ad said the travel restrictions have been eased for the team and the scholarship has been returned. However, the coach’s salary remains at a paltry $15,000.

To keep the program alive, Ass’ad started a Northridge men’s soccer booster club, which has raised about $10,000 toward travel and equipment. He said the school pays about $8,000 in operating expenses.

Ass’ad recently emerged in good spirits from a meeting with Athletic Director Paul Bubb.

“[Bubb] was disappointed with our record but he understood,� said Ass’ad. “A year ago I didn’t know if I was going to stay but in the long run I don’t think [Bubb]’s done anything to hurt us. He’s looking people in the eye and holding them accountable for their programs.�