ESPERANZA

Coach: Steve Marshall (second year).

1995-96: 23-3 overall, 5-0 in the Sunset League; the Aztecs won league and were runners-up in Southern Section Division II Duals and eighth in Division II individuals.

Key returners: John Bielat, 119, Sr.; Greg Freetage, 215, Sr.; Zach Jackson, 130, Sr.; Mike Nowell, 152, Sr.; Tim Roberts, 145, Sr.; Jeff Schmidt, 112, So.; Matt Schmidt, 160, Sr.; Jaime Smith, 171, Jr.; Brian Singer, 135, Sr.

Key newcomers: Chris Beck, 125, So.; Nick Campbell, 160, Sr.; Wade Courteau, 189, So.; Alan Doyle, 152, So.; Sid Donovan, 135, Sr.; Roland Gutierrez, 171, Fr.; Johnny Martinez, 112, So.; Travis Monson, 103, Fr.; Mike Porter, 145, So.; Mark Singleton, 140, Sr.; Mike Wallstrom, 145, Jr.; Loren Wildish, 189, Jr.; Eric Zechter, 160, Sr.

Outlook: Despite losing eight starters to graduation, Marshall says his team has good depth, very few holes and plenty of wrestlers who have varsity experience. The Aztecs have a good chance to win a league title again. But always cautious, Marshall said, “We might be the favorite, but we could easily finish below third.”