In February 2004, John Thomas, a real estate developer, purchased an expansion team in the Major Indoor Soccer League for Stockton, California.

The first general manager was Dennis Lukens, a former "A" League GM who oversaw the start up operation.

In August 2006, the team was purchased by Rick and Greg Toy and their brother in-law Jim Rachels.

In May 2008, the team announced that it was joining the Professional Arena Soccer League and would be renamed the Stockton Cougars.

[1] In April 2009, local businessman Fred Walke purchased majority interest in the franchise.