The Register’s season-opening top 10 for girls swimming.
O.C. TOP 10
(Based on dual meets)
1. Crean Lutheran: The reigning CIF-SS Division 2 champion Saints are cheering for Ella Eastin at Stanford, but have reasons to be excited about their own season. They are loaded with returners,
2. Santa Margarita: The post-Katie McLaughlin Era begins for the two-time defending CIF Division 1 champion. There’s a new standout in Samantha Shelton and plenty of dual-meet depth. Freshman Mackenzie Degn has clocked a 50.32 in the 100-yard free in club.
3. Tesoro: The Titans are stacked with returners from a squad that placed third at the CIF Division 1 finals last season. They’re a dual-meet power but scheduling conflicts prevented a showdown with Santa Margarita this spring.
4. Edison: The top O.C. contenders are blessed with returners and the Chargers have their share. Junior Nora Deleske headlines the group.
5. Woodbridge: The Warriors graduated Division 1 champion Daniela Georges (Arizona) but could have the firepower to claim the Pacific Coast League crown. They’ll be tough in Division 1, too.
6. Foothill: Legendary coach Tom DeLong takes the reins of a Knights team paced by Cal-bound Courtney Mykkanen. Brooke Maxson paces the influx of water polo speed.
7. Mater Dei: The Monarchs reside in the Trinity League with the No. 1 Eagles but don’t overlook their depth and balance. Cal-bound Aislinn Light anchors a squad that added freshman Stephanie Su.
8. Los Alamitos: The Griffins feature several returners, led by TCU-bound Nicqueline Rettberg. They could challenge Edison and Fountain Valley for the league crown.
9. Fountain Valley: Carly Perri leads a versatile group that could surprise in the Sunset. The Division 1 league, however, better keep an eye on Marina.
10. Irvine: The Vaqueros might have the depth to challenge Woodbridge and handle traditional power Corona del Mar in the Pacific Coast. Julia Wright and Kate Lee give Irvine a solid duo.
Others: Aliso Niguel, Corona del Mar, JSerra, Laguna Beach, Marina, Newport Harbor, Orange Lutheran
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GIRLS PREVIEW
- Swimming preview: Tesoro girls look to build on success
- Girls swimming preview: O.C. top 10
- Girls swimming preview: Top five O.C. swimmers to watch
- Shoults, Santa Margarita open season with strong efforts
- Girls swimming preview: Other O.C. swimmers to watch
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Contact the writer: dalbano@ocregister.com
