With an overtime 23-20 win in 2012, Moorpark College hopes to steal another season opener Saturday, in a rematch against the Orange Coast Pirates.
Both Moorpark and OCC have something to prove Saturday under the lights, as both teams try to erase their 2012 campaigns from memory. Following dismal records last year, the 2-8 Raiders, compared to the 3-7 Pirates, hope to set the tone in 2013, as the Pirates have not forgotten about their previous match up against Moorpark. The Raiders took the lead on a 24-yard field goal by kicker Derek Kirk in overtime to send the Pirates home packing.
The team has gone through a drastic makeover, as head coach Will Thurston’s staff has added four new members, including new offensive coordinator and former Chapman University quarterback Eric Marty. Marty also played professional football in Europe for the Gigantes Bolzano in Italy, before accepting his job at Moorpark.
Other additions to the staff include UC Davis alumni, and new director of development Nick Corso, former Granada Hills highschool assistant coach and new offensive line coach Robert Garcia as well as 2006 Moorpark Alumni Troy Lewis as new strength and defensive back coach.
The coaches aren’t the only new element to the Raiders squad, as a three way battle ensues over who will start the season as quarterback.
Returning starter Max Leffler, sophomore Nick Davis, and former Del Oro high school star Zach Labar split time on Thursday’s intrasquad black vs. blue scrimmage, vying for a shot as the Raiders’ signal caller. Each QB took reps with the first and second team offenses, and matched up against their defensive counterparts.
The starter has yet to be named, but Thurston’s staff is confident in whoever is chosen.
“The boys are chippy out there; they have been counting down the days until Saturday.” Fredette stated. “I think us coaches are just as restless as they are.”
Fredette is entering his 25th year on the Raider’s staff, and is currently the defensive line coach. He is also an esteemed member of Moorpark College’s Athletic Hall of Fame. Despite his seasoned nature, Fredette shows he is still passionate about football, as he emphasized on the aura surrounding practice.
“We are optimistic,” said defensive line coach Fran Fredette. “We are excited to see what these young men can do.”
Saturday’s matchup is garnering attention around campus as well, as students anticipate the start of college ball.
“I can’t wait for kickoff. a few of my friends and I are going,” said business major Chris Langham.” There’s nothing like the vibe a live football game gives”
The Moorpark College Football Raiders will clash with division rival Orange Coast College Pirates, in a conference game at 6 p.m., Saturday, Sep. 7, at Griffin Stadium in Moorpark. For those attending who aren’t students, prepare to purchase a one day parking permit, or plan to park in the neighboring residential areas.
