Kickoff 2010: Trinity League preview

COACHES’ POLL

1. Mater Dei, 6-5 in 2009, 33 coaches points

(tie) Servite, 14-1, 33

3. Orange Lutheran, 6-5, 24

4. St. John Bosco, 6-4, 18

5. Santa Margarita, 3-7, 11

6. JSerra, 6-4, 7

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Mater Dei. The Monarchs bring back an outstanding passing-receiving combination in quarterback Max Wittek and receiver Victor Blackwell, both USC commits, to lead what could be an explosive offense. If the offensive line develops, Mater Dei will be in the hunt for the league championship.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

Santa Margarita. The Eagles went winless for the first time in the Trinity League. They have a new coach, Harry Welch, who has coached Canyon of Canyon Country and St. Margaret’s, to CIF section and state championships. Santa Margarita has key positions to fill, especially at quarterback and running back.

PLAYER TO WATCH

Victor Blackwell. The Mater Dei receiver, who committed to USC, has all the tools that the best receivers have – hands, speed, strength and jumping ability.

OTHER TOP PLAYERS

JSerra: QB Jake Hall; WR/CB Jonavaughn Williams.

Mater Dei: QB Max Wittek; CB John Tavarez.

Orange Lutheran: LB Lorenzo Devers; TE/DL Christo Kourtzidis

St. John Bosco: WR Bryce Treggs; DL Sola Hala

Santa Margarita: OL Max Tuerk; WR Logan Sweet

Servite: OL/DL Troy Niklas; LB Matthew Inman

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Mater Dei vs. Servite at Angel Stadium, Oct. 29. Servite beat Mater Dei last year for the first time since 1988. This is the biggest rivalry in Orange County high school sports.

TOUGHEST SCHEDULE

Servite. Three of the Friars’ nonleague opponents won CIF championships last year – Oceanside, La Habra and Chaparral of Temecula.

SEE 2010 PREVIEWS FOR ALL OTHER O.C. FOOTBALL LEAGUES.