MCC’s Cirelli awarded coach of the year
Mesa Legend
After a successful season in Baseball last season, Tony Cirelli, head coach, won National Junior College Coach of The Year in early January. “I am fortunate to work with and learn from one of the best coaching staffs in the country which includes Doug Rose, Dave Robb, Ken Westray, Tom Novac, and Sean Kenney,” said Cirelli. When the team has success on the field, the coaches and players become more visible and are more likely to be recognized for their accomplishments.
For example, Jordan Zimmerman was named MVP and Nick Schuman was pitcher of the tournament. Also Zack Soria, Alex Gudac, and Evan Fresquez were all named to the All-Tournament Team. At least four other players received scholarships from four-year schools because of their exposure in the series. The T-Birds goal is to continue to improve individually and as a team as the year progresses. They try to play as close to their potential as possible.
Photo by Aaron Bartlett / Mesa Legend
“Coach Cirelli winning this award solidifies that here at MCC we have quality coaches in each of our sports programs,” said Director of Athletics, John Mulhern. Just last season, six coaches were named coach of their conference and two earned national awards for their efforts. 21 seasons in, Cirelli has compiled a record of 716-456, which gives him more wins than any other Thunderbirds’ coach in the school’s history of baseball. Last season Cirelli lead the T-Birds to a 52-13 season with an appearance in the World Series in which they won after having to overcome the loser’s bracket after a first round loss.
