BOYS’ WRESTLING: 1995-1996 WRESTLING PREVIEW : SIX TEAMS TO WATCH : ESPERANZA

Coach: Steve Marshall (first year).

1994-95: 17-3, 5-0 in the Sunset League; under then-coach Steve Stewart, the Aztecs surprised some by winning league and placing high at some key tournaments.

Key returners: Ryan Bent, Sr., heavyweight; John Brelat, Jr., 112; Noah Culp, Sr., 152; Scott Grigoruk, Sr., 152; Zach Jackson, Jr., 125; Greg Mino, Sr., 125; Mike Nowell, Jr., 152; Matt Schmidt, Jr., 171; Brett Sheffield, Sr., 125; Matt Steinmeyer, Sr., 171.

Key newcomers: Ryan Cruz, Jr., 119; Greg Freetage, Jr., 215; Jason Milton, Sr., 160; Jaime Smith, So., 152.

Outlook: Marshall is beaming at his large number of wrestlers, who are talented and motivated. “We have holes at 103 and 189, otherwise we will have two to three solid wrestlers fighting it out for each weight class,” Marshall said. Down by only three starters from last season, the Aztecs have a good chance to win the league title again. Back are seniors Bent, Culp, Monson, Sheffield and Steinmeyer, who Marshall thinks all have potential to be all-county. Look for Culp, a State qualifier last season, to go far.