GOLDEN WEST LEAGUE

Ocean View

Coach: Kathy Ponce

2000 record: 9-18

League record: 5-7

Kathy Ponce took over in midseason last year, the latest of several coaching changes in the program the last five years. The team returns three first-team all-league selections: shortstop/pitcher Courtney Tuggle, first baseman Jessica Carney and outfielder Carly Hatcher. The Seahawks also return four second-team selections: third baseman Nikki Barton, pitcher Crystina Cruz, second baseman Ashley Kinney and outfielder Andrina Valenzuela. Others with varsity experience include catcher Jenna Rivera and outfielders Cassie Caverly, Jennifer Daugherty, Christina Davis and Macie Brightman.

Saddleback

Coach: Homero Martinez

2000 record: 2-17

League record: 2-10

With eight returning starters and only one senior, Coach Homero Martinez (third year, 6-32) has an experienced but young team. Shortstop/pitcher Denise Guzman, pitcher/first baseman Olivia Bell and third baseman Daniela Ramirez earned first-team all-league honors last season. First baseman Janette Lopez is the only returning senior starter. Other experienced players include second baseman Lizette Flores, catcher Yari Mirabal, third baseman Joanne Saragoza and outfielder Olivia Reil. Senior pitcher Lucy Navarro played on last season’s junior varsity.

Santa Ana

Coach: Glenn Mitchell

2000 record: 11-12

League record: 8-4

After a second-place finish last year, Coach Glenn Mitchell (12th year, 59-184) hopes his experienced team can make the jump to the next level. He’ll rely on shortstop Vanessa Bernal (.359, 2 HRs, 8 RBIs), catcher Michelle Paz (.313) and first baseman Maria DeLeon (.322), all of whom were first-team all-league last year. Second-team all-league choice Alondra Flores (7-6, 1.44 ERA) will anchor the pitching staff that includes veteran Nereida Bernal. Second baseman Carina Medina gives the Saints more strength up the middle. Outfielders Adriana Dominguez, Raeleen Alvarado and pitcher/third baseman Jessica Casillas may also make an impact.

Tustin

Coach: Erin Gallagher

2000 record: 15-12

League record: 10-2

Four players return from last year’s first-place team, including the league’s most valuable player, Ashlee Capucci, a catcher/shortstop who has earned all-league honors in each of her first three seasons. Also returning is the league’s most valuable pitcher, Diana La Riva, who also plays second base and outfield. Outfielder Aneil Caruso and pitcher/first baseman/outfielder Shawna Silvas saw extensive playing time last year. Pitching should be a strength, with newcomers Brenda Magana and Christa Miller joining the staff. Newcomers Rosie Magana and Nancy Jacinto will play utility roles for Erin Gallagher, in her second season at the helm.

Westminster

Coach: Gretchen Bock

2000 record: 6-16

League record: 5-7

Seven starters return to the Lions’ lineup, including first-team all-league sophomores Katrina Fischer, a pitcher, and Nicole Mogen, who plays shortstop. Pitcher/outfielder Kelly Wright and infielder Erica Gonzalez earned second-team all-league honors last season. Other important returning players include catcher Crissy Marlett, infielder Alicia Estrada and outfielders Rachel Mitnick and Leticia Estrada. Newcomers Savannah Kasabo and Kelly Tromblay are expected to see playing time.