1994 PREP PREVIEW / BOYS’ CROSS-COUNTRY

Santa Ana

Coach: Roger Nava (second year).

1993: Won Orange County Championships and Sunset League titles; second at CIF State Division I finals.

Key returners: Juan Chavez, Sr.; Wenceslado Morales, Jr.

Key newcomers: Jesse Lopez, Jr.; Jesus Loza, So.; Julio Paz, Jr.; Raul Quinonez, So.; Danny Rivero, Jr.; Andres Roman, Jr.; Luis Zaragoza, Sr.

Outlook: Losing your top five runners is often traumatic, but the Saints should have a less painful rebuilding year than most. Morales and Chavez are the lone returners for the defending county champions. The Saints also made an impact on the state scene last year, finishing second. Chavez placed 26th at the Orange County Championships, while Morales was the 31st runner to cross the finish line. The latter recovered to gain a share of the Sunset League title, tying four other teammates. Nava’s team will look for help from Lopez and Rivero, two players off the Saints’ soccer team. Paz and Zaragoza are hopeful of lending some help, and newcomers Loza, Quinonez and Roman are looking to gain varsity positions.