FOOTBALL ’91 : THE HIGH SCHOOLS: SOUTHERN SECTION : DESERT-INYO LARGE LEAGUE : Paraclete

COACH: Jim Nottoli, 2nd season

LAST SEASON: 3-7; 6th in league, 0-5

PLAYERS TO WATCH: The good news is that nine starters return at 14 positions. The bad news is that they are returning from a team that went winless in league play for the third consecutive season. The Spirits have lost 19 league games in a row. Their last league win came in 1987 against Mojave, 28-24. Paraclete hopes to reverse its fortunes with an experienced defense. Tight end-defensive tackle Chris Anderson (6-5, 235) and linebacker Frank Stanley (5-10, 210) are the top returning starters. Both were all-league selections. Paraclete’s other three linebackers also return: Nathan Betz (5-11, 190), Mike Pokorny (6-0, 210) and Al Solorzano (6-1, 225). Two-way starter Tony Papa (6-2, 220) is the top interior lineman and cornerback Keith Fletcher (5-10, 160) is the best defensive back. Senior quarterback Larry King (5-8, 145) will try to replace Chris Cherioli, the 12th-best regional passer in the Southern Section last year. King’s main targets will be Anderson and Mike Ruiz (5-10, 160). Pokorny and Betz will be the split backs in Paraclete’s pro set offense.

OUTLOOK: “We’re looking to get some respect back,” Nottoli said. “Things are changing. The kids have been working hard in the weight room. We’re looking to have a good year and compete for the title.” Standing in their way is Tehachapi, a four-time finalist in the Southern Section playoffs.