McCurdy Quits Job as Royal Baseball Coach

Mike McCurdy, the Royal High baseball coach for the past four years, has resigned his position.

After replacing Tom Smailes in 1986, McCurdy, 37, compiled a 44-56 record. He tendered his resignation May 25.

“I’m just looking for another opportunity,” McCurdy said. “Maybe at a new school.

“Beggars can’t be choosy.”

The Highlanders never reached the Southern Section playoffs under McCurdy. This season they were 12-17, 4-8 in Marmonte League play.

McCurdy took pride in upgrading Royal’s facilities, including installing a new scoreboard. But the team never won consistently.

McCurdy, who likely will leave his teaching position as well, has expressed interest in other jobs.

“I’m very committed to baseball,” he said. “I would like the opportunity to move to the next level, but there are still some things I’d like to accomplish at a high school.”

Meanwhile, Athletic Director Terry Dobbins has secured the names of four candidates for the open job. Applications will be accepted through June 8. Dobbins would like the replacement to become an on-campus teacher and an assistant in another sport.

Heather Lindstrom, a freshman pitcher who compiled a 22-6 record, was selected most valuable player of the Cal State Northridge softball team.

Northridge finished 62-19 overall and won its eighth consecutive California Collegiate Athletic Assn title before finishing behind eventual Division II national-champion Bakersfield in the West regional.

Other award winners include: Lesley Plank (scholar athlete), Lisa Erickson (most inspirational), Pam Smith (golden glove), Leilani Artis (most improved) and Anna Getherall (outstanding defensive player). Smith and Erickson shared outstanding offensive player honors.

George Vranau, the athletic director and baseball coach at Murphy High in Los Angeles, will replace Steve Costley as baseball coach at Chaminade High.

Costley resigned at the end of the season.