After eight years of sabbatical, Moorpark College’s Wrestling program has returned, with new leadership and fresh vigor. The new program is headed by coach Lindley Kistler, who brings a wealth of knowledge and a refined philosophy to the brand new team.

“This was the first time we’ve had this team so were all kind of gelling,” said Kistler. “Eighteen kids with 18 different coaches with 18 different coaching philosophies, my job is to not only get them in shape, but to teach them one coaching philosophy.”

The wrestling program, which was the only one of its kind in the county, was axed in 2009 due to the California state budget crisis. Before its termination, the program boasted five state championships.

Kistler, who trained with legendary wrestling coaches Dan Gable of Iowa State University and Bobby Douglas of Arizona State University, has had his share of success as well. As a competitor, Kistler was a Div. I All-American, Div. I National Championship team member and Olympic Trial qualifier. His more than two decades of coaching high school wrestling included a stay at Newbury Park High School.

All the same, without a continued, established team, Kistler has been forced to start from scratch: a handicap made clear by a Sep. 9 match against Bakersfield College in which the Raiders won only one of 10 weight classes.

“We’ve only had a month,” Kistler explained. “Those kids have worked all year and off-season. We didn’t have that latitude. We will be a different team at the end of the year.”

Whatever the case, the players feel ready to win this season. Sergio Camacho, 24, Business major and wrestler, believes the team is well-equipped for their upcoming bouts.

“We have a wide variety from young to seasoned, but we’re all there for each other on the mat, ready to bring home some wins for Moorpark,” said Camacho.

The team’s proficiency will be put on display at Moorpark College on Friday, Sep. 29 at 7 p.m. as the Raiders face off against Palomar College. Ticket prices are $7 for adults and $5 for children, military and senior citizens.