SIX TEAMS TO WATCH : FOUNTAIN VALLEY

Coach: Debbi Kelly (12th year).

1995: 9-1, 5-0 in the Sunset League; won league championships, the Southern Section Relays and took second at Division I finals.

Key returners: Nicole Dotts, Jr.; Jennifer McCoy, So.; Christine Motschman, Jr.; Lindsay Ortega, Jr.; Kristi Tjoa, So.; Vinessa Tjoa, Sr.; Grace Wang, So.

Key newcomers: Katy Allen, Fr.; Lauren Sininger, Fr.

Outlook: Fountain Valley is the team that seems to be on every team’s hit list. Nevertheless, Kelly said she wouldn’t want it any other way. With Shelly Olivadoti the only starter from last year who was lost to graduation, Fountain Valley remains the team to beat. The Barons have depth and experience, with six team members who were section finalists last season. But where this team seems to thrive is in relays. It won the Southern Section Relays last season, beating Irvine, El Toro and Mission Viejo. Although Kelly believes her girls can have another successful season, she admits Irvine will be tough, especially with the addition of a powerful freshman class. “It’s going to be a challenge,” Kelly said.