Prep Softball ’94 / Six Teams to Watch : LOS ALAMITOS

Coach: Jami Shannon (16th year, 223-130-2).

1993: 24-4, 8-2 in the Empire League; lost to No. 1 Simi Valley, 1-0, in the Division I final.

Key returners: Megan Barnes, So., third baseman; Sheri Bergeron, Sr., P/1B; Amanda Peterson, Jr., second baseman/center fielder; Michelle Schneider, Jr., shortstop; Carolyn Wilson, Sr., catcher; Debora Wilson, Sr., pitcher/first baseman.

Key newcomers: Jennifer Slaney, Jr., C/OF; Cindy Tredway, Fr., third baseman.

Outlook: Los Alamitos had the winning run on base in the section championship game, which they reached with pitching and defense. Gone is pitcher Carrie Dolan (9-2, 0.16 ERA), but Debbie Wilson (10-0, 0.31) was a suitable replacement while Dolan recovered from an injury. Key to Griffins’ fortunes may lay in their offense, where Carolyn Wilson and Schneider are expected to step up and provide clutch performances. Recent loss of second baseman Shelby Olmstead, who had knee surgery Feb. 3, doesn’t help. Cypress, with a strong offense and defense, should challenge.