News
One-on-one with Luna softball coach Randall Krutch
The following is a one-on-one interview with Luna softball coach Randall Krutch.
Season outlook. How does the upcoming season look in general?
What are your expectations? Overall, I think we sit in a positive position. We have a young team with a lot of freshman who are working hard and adjusting to college level softball. I know we will be more competitive in our conference than our teams have been in the past. We are still in the rebuilding phase of the program so my expectations are really simple. We need to compete to the best of our abilities at all times and continue to learn and grow.
What are the strengths and weaknesses of the team? Why?
Strengths are that we have great kids that fit really well with each other, and they have a willingness to learn and grow. The weakness is that we are not very experienced at this point. We are overcoming our weakness by playing good times in pre-season and getting solid game experience.
How many returning and new players do you have?
We have 4 returners and 15 new players
Name two or three players to look for in 2023.
As far as pitching, I look at freshman Elisha Velasquez to make a real impact on the conference as well as returner Ciara Cruz to be productive on offense and defense. Catching we have two really good athletes that will make a lot of noise this year and they are Angelica Ortiz and Aliyia Alaniz.
What is going to take for Luna to make a run for the conference title?
Well it’s going to take at least another year. We are setting this group and our 2023 recruits to make a real run at it. This year our team goal is to attain a 3 seed in our conference and this has never been done by any Luna team up to this point, so we are managing our expectations and being real about it.
What type of athletic play do you expect this year?
I think we are a competitive group and I think if you came out to watch us, you would notice an excitement and enthusiastic game.
How was your offseason workouts and overall attitude on the team?
Our off-season workouts were tremendous. The ladies worked their tails off and gained muscle and speed and learned a lot about what they are capable of. I am really pleased with the attitudes of the players and what they are accomplishing.
How do you like your new facility? How much of an improvement is it?
We are thrilled with the new space and love that we are able to do more in less time. It is a wonderful space for the athletes in both baseball and softball.
Last year’s overall record and conference record?
Well last season we won nine games, which does not sound great or impressive, and it really is not in the larger picture. Remember we started rebuilding this after 2 seasons with only two wins combined so nine wins was an improvement, but nowhere near what the expectation is at this point.
Any final comments?
I hope everyone wants to come out, support our athletes, and see why softball is such an exciting sport to watch.