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Damian Calhoun. Sports Newsroom Assistant.

// MORE INFORMATION: Associate Mug Shot taken August 24, 2010 : by KATE LUCAS, THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

1. Huntington Beach: If you thought the Oilers were impressive last season, make sure to check them out this season. They return eight of their top 11 players and five starters from last year’s CIF-SS and SoCal Regional championship team. Also, junior setter Josh Tuaniga becomes eligible in April.

2. Esperanza: The Aztecs face some uncertainty regarding the health of the Register’s reigning player of the year, Jake Arnitz. They have a solid core of returnees, including setter Ryan Heller. If Arnitz returns from his back injury, the Aztecs will be strong contenders to repeat as Division 2 champs.

3. Corona del Mar: Last year’s move to Division 1 provided the Sea Kings with some much-needed experience. That should serve them well this season.

4. San Clemente: The Tritons graduated a lot of key faces from last year’s team that made the semifinals in the CIF-SS and Regional playoffs. As the new players mesh with the returners, the Tritons should be a team to watch.

5. Laguna Beach: The Breakers have a good core of returning players, led by all-league players Noah Blanton and Jack Wyatt. They figure to be in the mix in the Division 2 title hunt.

6. Foothill: This might be the only team that can challenge Esperanza for the Century League title. Foothill advanced to the CIF-SS Division 2 semifinals last season and is ranked fourth in the CIF poll.

7. Orange Lutheran: The Lancers have a senior-dominated squad, led by returning first-team all-Trinity League players Mac Engan and John Predney.

8. Santa Margarita: The Eagles have a pair of key returnees in first-team all-Trinity League senior outside hitter Erik Sikes and second-team all-league sophomore outside hitter James Thomas.

9 Dana Hills: Another team with question marks. The Dolphins started the season without All-County opposite hitter Christian Hessenauer. If he returns before the end of the season, Dana Hills should make some noise.

10. Newport Harbor: The Sailors will be a team to watch as the season progresses.

MORE IN THE O.C. BOYS VOLLEYBALL 2014 SEASON PREVIEW:

Esperanza goes to spread formation

Athletes to watch

Important dates