VALENCIA

1997 RECORD: 3-7-1 overall, 2-3 in league

COACH: Mike Marrujo (151-55-6 at school)

RETURNING STARTERS: 4 on offense, 3 on defense

TOP RETURNERS

Jason Annis, QB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Joe Eddleman, OL, 6-3, 290, Jr.; Justin Lang, RB/DE, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Michael Lim, OL/DL, 6-0, 225, Jr.; Manuel Ramirez, OL/DL, 6-0, 230, Sr.; Felix Rodriguez, OL/DL, 5-10, 205, Sr.; E.J. Smith, LB, 6-1, 195, Sr.

TOP NEWCOMERS

Bobby Davis, LB, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Marquis Johnson, DB/WR, 6-2, 195, Sr.; Sal Mora, LB/FB, 6-0, 195, Jr.; Don Morris, RB, 5-8, 180, Sr.; Alex Perez, OL, 6-2, 300, So.; Carlos Perez, NG, 5-8, 220, Jr.

OUTLOOK

Valencia has really struggled with depth in recent years, especially last season when the Tigers had their second-worst record in Marrujo’s 17-year tenure. But Marrujo is pleased to see a strong turnout this summer, including several players who didn’t play last season but should contribute significantly. Carlos Perez was one of the best freshmen at the school two years ago. Johnson will start both ways after being ineligible last season. Morris was out because of a back injury, but is expected to be the main ball carrier for the Tigers. Mora was the best player on the junior varsity team a year ago and Davis is another newcomer who had an excellent spring and summer. Valencia also has some familiar faces back, including Annis, a strong-armed quarterback who Marrujo hopes will develop more consistency. Lang played strong safety last season, but moves to inside linebacker and should also get to run the ball on offense. Rodriguez is also making a change from nose guard to offensive guard, but will split time with Ramirez at defensive tackle.

SCHEDULE

Sept. 11 vs. Villa Park; 17 vs. Los Amigos at Garden Grove HS; 25 vs. El Dorado.

Oct. 2 vs. Kennedy at Western HS; 9 vs. Sunny Hills at Buena Park HS; 16 vs. Brea Olinda; 22 vs. Anaheim at Glover Stadium; 30 vs. Savanna.

Nov. 5 at Western; 12 vs. Magnolia at Glover Stadium.