Capistrano Valley

Coach: Darren Utterback (third year).

1996: 19-2 overall, 10-0 in South Coast League; advanced to the Division I final, where it lost to Manhattan Beach Mira Costa.

Key returners: Jay Monson, 5-10, setter, Sr.; Anthony Parisi, 5-11, defensive specialist, Sr.; Beau Rawi, 6-5, middle blocker, Jr.; Ryan Thurlow, 6-2, outside hitter, Sr.; Bobby Wilson, 6-2, outside hitter, Sr.

Key newcomers: Eric Amunson, 6-3, middle blocker, Jr.; Mike Brewsey, 6-3, middle blocker, Jr.; Brandon Burgason, 6-3, opposite, So.; Josh Burkhart, 6-0, outside hitter, Sr.; Drew Carson, 6-3, middle blocker, So.; Matt Dalton, 6-2, opposite, Jr.; Kayle Mount, 6-0, defensive specialist, Sr.; Brady Starr, 6-3, middle blocker, Jr.; Jed Stumpf, 6-1, outside hitter, Sr.

Outlook: The Cougars lost three All-Southern Section selections after last season, setter Chris Seiffert, middle blocker Brad Leach and outside hitter Mike Tully. Seiffert also was the league’s most valuable player. All-league selections Thurlow and Rawi return to lead the team and Monson takes over for Seiffert at setter. Carson and Starr could be strong in the middle.