RADFORD, Va. (WFXR) – With a new skipper at the helm of the Radford University baseball program, Highlanders new head baseball coach Alex Guerra is happy to be back in the place he once called home.

“It’s surreal this place is so special when you play here and being an assistant coach and having the opportunity to come back and be the head baseball coach here there’s so much pride and history in this program and I’m just proud to represent so many former players and I’m proud to represent this university,” says Guerra.

This full circle moment is something Guerra is thankful for.

“For the third time coming back to Radford I was very lucky and very blessed. I was talking about it last night with my buddy. Fourteen years ago, I came here my apartment was right across the road from where our indoor is now and just having the opportunity play here with coach Raccuia, coach Anderson, and coach Rice that first staff that was here I was very thankful for that. Radford changed my life,” explains Guerra.

Guerra also spent time at Central Florida University, and more recently at James Madison University. Now he’s back at his college baseball roots. Guerra says he’s ready to take the Highlanders to new heights.

“From a recruiting standpoint we’re going to make sure we get guys that fit how we want to play and one thing I’ll say not to get into too many things specifically our team and our program is going to play very aggressive. We’re going to be very passionate, energetic, and you’re going to feel the energy when you come watch us play. It’s going to pour out of our players and I want to make sure that they take on personality of our coaching staff.”

According to Guerra, he’s not taking any moment on the diamond with his new team for granted.

“You know in the back of my mind I always knew that having the opportunity to potentially lead this program one day would be a tremendous honor and blessing. I didn’t think it would happen this soon in my career but it’s an amazing honor. It’s one I don’t take lightly. Radford has given me everything and I’m standing here right now because of this university and this area this community. We’ll try to recreate some memories that we had in the past here.”

Last season the Highlanders finished the year 13-55 overall, and Coach Guerra looks to change the narrative of Radford baseball next season.