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Coach: Lane Jaffe

2006 Record: 14-5

Three Players To Watch: Jon Spangler (Attack), Alex Marin (Goalie), Sammy Romer (Attack)

The Skinny: Palos Verdes made some major changes in the off-season that it hopes will transform last year's Bay League runner-up into a major regional contender.

The first step was bringing in former UCLA head coach Lane Jaffe. Then, it upped the ante by creating a far more difficult schedule. Palos Verdes will face CIF-San Diego Section champion La Costa Canyon and Foothill-Orange County among its out-of-conference games this year.

"With a large number of returning seniors, we have high hopes," Jaffe said. "Our goal will be to not only get to the championship, but to come home with the trophy."

Palos Verdes will be led this season by senior attack Jon Spangler, an NCAA Division I prospect with deceptive speed and a cannon shot with both hands.

In the cage, senior goalie Alex Marin is another NCAA prospect. Marin is a four-year starter who plays well in tight and throws strong outlet passes, Jaffe said.

Joining Spangler on attack will be junior Sammy Romer, a player whose intelligence makes up for what he lacks in size and speed.

"PV's strength will be at attack and in the goal," Jaffe said. "The question will be whether the defense and middies can step up and play to their potential."

Predicted League Finish: 1st