Charles Darwin coined the term “survival of the fittest” to refer to the best-fit creatures most likely to survive in a time of crisis or danger.
While this might be evolutionary theory, or a time of survival, the Moorpark College softball team is going through a stage of “revival of the fittest.”
This past off-season, the Raiders reacquired former softball coach Will Thurston, who recently coached the Raiders for 10 seasons (1984-1993), posting an incredible 115-12 (.905) record in the process.
The outfield fences are currently under renovations and assistant coaches hired on Thurston’s staff even updated equipment for the players provided. This “revival of the fittest” by Moorpark College is what coach Thurston believes is the best thing about Moorpark College softball.
“Moorpark College softball has a reputable history in the state and [Western State] conference with many former players who went on to succeed in their careers,” said Thurston, in a statement.
“There will always be optimism for this program to help lead our athletic department in challenging conditions set forth by the state of California.”
Optimism is what Thurston is yearning for his team to possess. The Raiders won the WSC regular season crown last season, posting a 31-12 record before a first-round playoff exit.
With six returning players, Thurston believes his team can achieve their ultimate goal: reaching the state tournament.
“I think we have a squad that is capable of succeeding at a high level,” he said. “This squad could potentially get to the state tournament.”
According to Raiders second baseman Brittany Alfino, the team needs to develop a strong cohesion to reach the high expectations set upon them.
“I think as a team we really have to stay together,” she said. “It’s just a matter of staying together.”
Taylor Neumann returns to the squad, along with Alfino and shortstop Jaime Yaller. Neumann was an all-conference catcher last season, but her primary position this year will be pitching.
Neumann already believes the team has a standard goal for the season, which is to win back-to-back WSC championships, but feels the team’s dedication and hard work will be needed to achieve this type of success.
“We want to be back-to-back WSC champions,” she said. “We all got to work hard, and play one game at a time.”
Thurston truly believes that with accountability and dedication for one another, along with a willingness to learn and adjust to new strategies, the Raiders can have a successful season and reach that state tournament.
“For us to get there [state tournament], we are going to have to have a style of play that is unlike what a lot of teams are seeing,” he said. “We have to be an upbeat, tempo-type team.”
