Parker Replaces Spraker at Saugus in Cross-Country

Mike Parker, a former assistant track coach at Montclair and Ocean View high schools, has been named to coach the boys’ and girls’ cross-country teams at Saugus High.

Parker, 24, replaces Steve Spraker, who accepted a position as administrative dean at Lompoc High in June after coaching at Saugus since the school opened in 1975.

Under Spraker’s guidance, the Centurions won consecutive Southern Section 3-A Division girls’ titles in 1978 and ’79 and consecutive 3-A boys’ championships in ’84 and ’85.

Parker, a graduate of Tustin High and Cal Poly Pomona, said he feels no added pressure because of Spraker’s success.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge,” Parker said. “This is a great opportunity for me, both from a teaching position and a coaching position.”

Teri Lord, the girls’ tennis coach, has replaced Spraker as the girls’ athletic director.