Olympians to Help Open Softball Season

Two Olympians will help launch the 1997 season for the Moorpark Girls Softball Assn. today.

Julie Smith and Sheila Cornell, who won gold medals as members of the American women’s softball team in last summer’s Olympics, will meet players and parents at the opening day celebrations, beginning at 9 a.m. at both Mountain Meadows School and the adjacent park.

“These are the women at the top of the game,” association President Tom Murray said.

The 5-year-old organization boasts more than 300 players, ages 5 through 16, Murray said.

Today’s ceremonies include a tribute to the organization’s volunteers, the traditional first pitch and several games.