Santa Margarita

Coach: Eddie Rapp (fourth year).

1996: 18-3 overall, 9-1 in Sea View League; won league and advanced to the quarterfinals of the Division I tournament, where it lost to eventual champion Manhattan Beach Mira Costa.

Key returners: Justin DeBlasio, 6-1, outside hitter, Sr.; Tim Gerlach, 6-4, middle blocker, Sr.; Jeff Klemens, 6-1, outside hitter, Sr.; Nick Mauro, 6-3, middle blocker, Sr.; Marcus Skacel, 6-4, outside hitter, Jr.

Key newcomers: Adam Breault, setter, Jr.; Chris Doyle, middle blocker, Sr.; John Hinds, 5-11, defensive specialist, Jr.; Ryan Hodge, defensive specialist, Sr.; Tim Pierce, 5-9, defensive specialist, Jr.; Miguel Prietto, setter, Jr.; Matt Zierhut, 6-3, middle blocker, Jr.

Outlook: With several excellent returning starters and great depth, Santa Margarita is the team to beat in the Sea View League. DeBlasio was the league’s co-most valuable player last season and Gerlach was a first-team selection. The Eagles need someone to direct the team from the setting position. Breault and Prietto will battle for the spot. Doyle and Zierhut are battling for the last middle blocker spot.