The Daily Herald from Chicago, Illinois • Page 20

Page HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS Tuesday, September 3,1996 OaiLvHerald BOYS SOCCER SEASON PREVIEW No superpower, but lots of super soccer BY MIKE GAROFOLA Daily Herald Correspondent A Ithough not able to boast a re- turning state champion or even Xjka superpower like St. Charles, area soccer rivals do not have to apologize when it comes to having the ingredients for another competitive, exciting season. With the continued growth and interest in soccer, the Daily Herald area is becoming a high school version of NFL parity. Varsity rosters are getting younger and more highly skilled as offseason play in club soccer, summer camps and weight-training help round out, refine and develop players from freshmen to seniors. Because of this work, the opportunity for an upstart team to grab a major headline is very real.

Mid-Suburban South Fans of MSL soccer can look for a few of the usual favorites to be in the conference and Elite Eight hunts. However, the races for the top- three spots in each MSL division appear to be wide open. After reaching the Soccer Bowl for the first time in school history, Joe Gari's MSL champs from Schaumburg obviously are hoping for a repeat. Gari will need to replace his top three scorers from last year, including South player of the year Casey Pawlak (24 goals). "Our juniors gained a lot of experience last year," said Gari said, "and the challenge is for them to take charge as seniors." Fortunately, the Saxons are strong where it counts, up the middle.

Led by senior tn-captains and mid- fielders Dan Thorstenson (school record for assists) and John Komac- and keeper Paul Radek, Schaumburg will be formidable and experienced. One road-block Schaumburg will need to address on the tournament trail will be Gary-Grove, who was responsible for 2 of the 3 Saxons losses last year. Most damaging was the season-ending loss in the regional final. "We have an opportunity, with our season opener, to erase that memory, and use it as a stepping stone for the year," Gari said. "With the right attitude, we can be there at the end." Of course, old nemesis Conant may have something to say about who will make the trip to the Soccer Bowl come October.

Cougars coach Tony Kees (10th year) boasts a sterling record in the '90s of never finishing lower than second place. By returning 90 percent of the scorers from last year, Conant should battle its neighbors right down to the final days of the conference schedule. Kees is fortunate to have two highly skilled all-area players back in senior forward Alex D'Orsi and junior MF Adam Salatino. -WW 1 i 1 Fremd sophomore John Tomaino has already shown he can be an impact player in the MSL this season. Daily Herald Photo To ease what Kees calls an "unproven defense," the Cougars will welcome back senior midfielders Joe Forde, Adam Kolka and Adam Ginaburgh.

"If we stay consistent and get settled in on defense and in goal, we will be in good shape," Kees said. An interesting battle is shaping up among the other South teams with each hoping to catch fire and chal-' lenge for the top spots in the division. Angelo Testone's Hoffman Estates team will rely on overall speed and continued improvement from juniors Jim Bulanski and Jason Hiser to join Dan Parisi and form a solid midfield. After the sophomore jinx hit coach Tom Froats, following his Soccer Bowl appearance as a rookie coach at Prospect, the Knights look to rebound and move back up into the South mix. One player to watch is junior midfielder Kevin Hallen, who.

may be ready to establish himself in the South. Both Rolling Meadows and Elk Grove offer many question marks because of youth and graduation and not for lack of effort. Chuck Petersen's Mustangs graduated six starters from last year's team, and he has five sophomores and two freshmen. The best of the bunch, however, could be forward Todd Grossnickle, who did not play last year as a freshman. J.B.

Dow's first three years as coach of Elk Grove have shown steady improvement, going from sixth'to fourth last year. Seniors Glenn Scott and Dan Caldera will use their experience to guide Dow's young team. Mid-Suburban North Can Palatine make its third consecutive visit to the state finals after a third place finish followed a dramatic run to the 1994 title? Can the great finish by Fremd be carried over on the talent of three young Vikings? Or will Hersey prove to be a dark horse and surprise the contenders in the North? Whatever may happen this fall, there's little doubt that three wily and clever coaches are not showing their hand, as they remain cautiously optimistic about what may turn out to be a great race in the MSL North. Coach Willie Filian's Palatine Pirates have had two impressive seasons back-to-back, but the coach knows a high pre-season ranking and a major injury will challenge even his most experienced players. "With Jeff Zych (car accident) out for a month, and the press placing us so high, the team must challenge themselves to succeed," Man said.

"We have a solid group of kids and great work ethic, so we can do it." Palatine also needs to replace Mike Huber, two-time Daily Herald player of the year, and his 32 goals, plus the outstanding Chris Jamal in the nets. With eight state-tested senior returnees, including Paul and Andy Eguez, Brian Zabon, Tom Rooney and Jason Mokhtarian, the Pirates' "greybeards" should overcome the losses. Toss in ODP keeper Dan Doles, and Filian's concern about his rebuilt defense, until Zych returns, should be tempered. "We will play every game hard, and. use our tough tournament schedule to get ready," he said.

Gerardo Pagnani's return to coaching last year started slowly, but by season's end his Fremd Vikings were flying high, capturing a regional title and second place in the division. Like many other programs, Pagnani is concerned about his back line, but with a talented threesome of junior Chris Lonteen (MF) and sophomores Doug Warren (GK), and John Tomaino (MF) back from last year, his worries will be a lot less. Pagnani also expects contributions from two new players to his program in sophomore Joel Abila (MF, transfer from Fenton) and senior Alexander Fink (F, exchange student from Germany). "It took awhile for the team to adjust to me and each other last year," Pagnani said. "If we come out, stay composed and build from our finish, we should be in good shape." In good shape is what Kersey's Bruno Gwardys thinks he might be with his current crop of players.

"What many don't remember is that we were in the North race right until the end," said Gwardys, "even in our regional loss (1-0) to St. Viator." Indeed, everything came together for the Huskies last fall, and this might be a breakthrough year as Hersey returns with talented junior forward Mike Hill and a team that can go 15 or 16 players deep. Toss in senior Trevor Musolf and junior Miguel Rodriguez up front to score, and junior Phil Diehl in the back, and the youthful Huskies may make some noise. Bruce Kennett's Wheeling practice site might as well have an "under construction" sign out front this fall. Kennett saw 15 seniors graduate from the North Division champs and sectional finalist team that sported a 16-5-3 record last year.

The Wildcats hope to have senior stopper Brian Payne back from a bout of mononucleosis. John Erfort, Buffalo Grove's coach of 21 years, knows all about rebuilding. "We lost sight of things last year," Erfort said, "but we look to change that around with this group of players." The Bison lack a natural goal scorer or two, but they do return some defensive experience with seniors Joe Attanaseo and B.J. Olsen. Players like Neil Mahoney, right, will help keep Libertyville strong in the North Suburban Conference.

Daily Herald Photo Youth will be served at Harrington as second-year coach Mark Berkowitz continues to build his program. With only nine seniors on his 20-man roster, Berkowitz may start seven freshmen and sophomores. The glue will be three-year varsity players George Allendorph and Mike Cohen. East Suburban Catholic Sometime during the season, and especially at tournament time, most of the MSL will need to keep a close eye on a couple of area teams. St.

Viator and Libertyville will plan on making noise at each stop. What do you get when you mix a highly ranked power, a successful and veteran coach, the 1995 Illinois player of the year and a group of solid returning players? That spells Viator. And you can bet that coach Mike Taylor won't allow any of those accolades to get in the way as the Lions prepare for what they hope will be a season to remember. Taylor and his team will definitely remember the '95 season, which saw them drop just three games, all to state qualifiers, and tie the eventual state champs from St. Charles.

However, they were on the outside looking in as they failed to advance to the Elite Eight. "This group of players is willing to sacrifice and work hard to win," Taylor said. "If we can sustain through a tough tournament and non-conference schedule, and learn from it, come November we will be there." Making all of this a real possibility is all-everything senior Nino DaSilva. DaSilva's 31 goals and presence and feel for the game will make him a marked man, enough so that his partner up front, Jarett Payton, should find plenty of room to operate. Taylor's concern for an untested backline is soothed by senior fullback, Dan Storino, and a top area keeper in Scott Strahammer (25 career shutouts).

North Suburban Coach Andy Bitta's teams at Libertyville seem to always peak at the right time. Last year was no exception. The Wildcats played well through the tournament, only to fell in OT to Evanston in the supersectional final. And despite losing three great starters from his 18-4-2 '95 team, Bitta may be strong with new players right around the playoffs. "The first couple of weeks will be a real test," Bitta said.

All-stater Neil Mahoney (MF), and junior James Waters (MF), will provide plenty of two-way play, and the late addition of senior transfer Loscar Majia (from Texas) will plug a huge hole in goal. Stevenson hopes to build confidence while overcoming graduation losses, injuries and inexperience on the way to finding the right pieces to the puzzle. The Patriots will sorely miss four senior starters from their 16-6-1 sectional finalist team. Coach Mark Schartner looks to use the competitive Glenbrook South and St. Charles tournaments to help round a team into place that was hit with injuries and transfers.

Senior midfielders Tony Logan and Jeff Heckman will provide leadership for the Patriots. TEAM CAPSULES COMPILED BY MIKE GAROFOLA MSL North Barrington Coach: Mark Berkowitz (2nd year) Last yoar: Key losses: Robbie Kacmund, Chris Rhea, Justin Read. Brian Crumrine, Lucas Keiser, Nate Lamke. Craig Klopfenstsln, Todd Nist, Todd Hansberger. Top returning players: Seniors Joe White (F), Mike Cohen (F), George Attendoiph (D), Tom Wang (GK), Sean Nlcol (GK); junior Kyle Weber (MF); sophomores Reese Trlpp (MF), Jeff Sanone (MF).

Promising newcomers: Sophomores Bryan Fuller, Christian Lunt, Brian Shanfeld; freshmen Adam Stadler, Carl Skanderup. Coach's comments: This year's team is extremely young, with seven of pur 20 either sophomores or freshmen. We've had a competitive camp with many of our starting spots still being contested for. This Is a fun group of kids that stay positive and will succeed in time, through hard work." Buffalo Grove Coach: John Erfort (21st year) Last year: Key losses: David Rojas (NIU), Patrick Wong (NIU), Grant Gorr. Top returning players: Seniors Joe Attanaseo (D), Jason Nelson (MF), Bill Davy (D), B.J.

Olsen (D); juniors Andy Lyons (D), Brad Klein (MF), Chris Raimondo (MF), Paul Dondalskl (MF). Promising newcomers: Sophomores Brad Abel (F), Ryan Glllospie (GK); freshman Jordan Smith (F). Coach's comment: "Our goal this yearls to Instill pride back to the program, with enthusiasm and hard work, something we lost sight of last year. If we accomplish these goals, we'll have fun watching this team Fromd Coach: Jerry Pagnani (16th yoar) Last year: 14-8-5, 7-3-0. Regional Key losses: Ken Mach, Steve Top returning players: Junior Christian Lonteen (MF); sophomores John Tomaino Doug Warren (GK).

Promising newcomers: Senior Alexander Fink (F, exchange student from Germany); junior Lou 'Lltrenta (F); sophomore Joel Ablla (MF, transfer from Fenton). Coach's comments: "We are young and Inexperfenced.and need some of the sophomores to step up. We will get better as the season progresses, and if we stay healthy, should finish near the top in the North." Hersey Coach: Bruno Gwardys (7th year) Lait year Key losses: Joe Dziurgat (Kansas), Konrad Mysczyzszyn. Top returning players: Seniors Trevor Musoff (F), Daniel Arerds (MF), Eric Webar (D); Juniors Mike Hill (F), Miguel Rodriguez (F), Phil Diohl (D), Domlnick Dzlurgot (MF). Promising newcomers: Phil Hall, Futakuchl, Maft Grandzlel, Oscar Montesinos, Dean Tsoronis.

Coach's comments: "Wa should bo much better this year. A mixture of youth, experience, talent and enthusiam will help us battle the traditional powers. Each player respects the'other, and If the pieces fit the picture, anything's possible." Palatine Coach: Willie Flllian (6th year) Last year: 20-6-2, 6-3-1, 3rd in state Key losses: Mike Huber (Francis Marlon, S.C.), Chris'Jamal (UIC), Maft Abhalter (Dayton). Top returning players: Seniors Brian Zaben (MF), Paul Eguez (MF), Andy Egurjz (MF), Jeff Zych (D), Tom Rooney (D), Jason Mokhtarian, Promising newcomers: Seniors Dan Doles (GK), Anthony Costa (F). Coach's comments: 'We have a solid group of kids who are very coachable and have a strong work ethic.

The defense will be rebuilt after graduations, and summer Injuries, but in time, with our extra depth and tough tournament schedule, we should be In good position for the stretch njn." Wheeling Coach: Bruce Kennett (9th year) Last year: 16-5-3, 8-2-0, North Champs, sectional finalist. Key losses: Mike Norsk (NIU), Eric Jimenez (Harper), Alex Maktaz (Bradley), 'Jason Ball (Cleveland State), Kurt Hummel (Harper), Chris Robblns (UW-Plattevllle), Peter Schmidt. Top returning players: Seniors Jimmy Schwoebel (D), Brian Payne (D), Marco Botello (MF). Promising newcomers: Seniors Alanso Torrras (MF), Pater. Baumhardt (MF), Andres Martinez (GK), David Mykytiuk (GK); Juniors Brent Whlttingham -(MF), Derek Dzlo'n (D), Coach's comments: This may be the youngest and most Inexperienced team In either division after losing so many to graduation.

We have players with above average skills who have bean working hard In practice, and I know we'Hgot better by the end of the year because of It." MSL South Conant Coach: Tony Kees (1 Oth year) Last year: Key losses: Dan Weber (Indiana, wrestling scholarship). Top returning players: Seniors Alex D'Orsi (F), Joe Fordo (MF), Adam Glnsburgh (MF), Adam Kolka (MF), Rob Felnels (D), Levar Lawrence (F)'; Juniors Adam Salatino (MF), Andy Craft (D), Promising newcomers: Juniors Andy MacArthur (F), Mike Grygo (F). Coach's comments: "With our defense unproven and not game tested, the offense, which rotums 90 percent of our scoring from last year, will need to step up while we find ourselves in the back. If this comes together we should be in good shape." Elk Grove Coach: Dow (4th year) Last year Key losses: Doug Elsenhower (Aurora College), Dan Mullin, Matt Gutsmoldi. Top returning players: Seniors Glenn Scott (MF), Dan Caldera (F), Rob Beasloy (F), Jamas Lee (F), Joe Tomano (D); Juniors Jeff Gutsmeidi (D), Ryan Chellln (MF).

Promising newcomers: Senior Juan'Canchola (MF); Sophomore Josue Canchola (MF), both transfers from Evanston. Coach's comments: "Wo would like to continue moving up the ladder In the division, but we unfortunately lost eight players from last year with seven being starters. What we hope to do is erase some of our question marks early and fin- strong." Hoffman Estates Coach: Angelo Tostone (6th year) Last year: Key losses: Stein Garcia Top returning players: Seniors Dave Glelarowskl (GK), Dan Parisi 1 (MF), David Murphy (F), Mike Mandakas (MF); Juniors Sam Vincent Garcia (MF), Jim Bulanski (MF), Jonathan Walrath (D), Jason Hisor (MF), David Gentile (D), Michael Jones-Aken newcomers: Senior Brian Kounovsky (D); Junior Vince Tognocchl (MF); Sophomore Brett 'Bowden(D). Coach's comment: "Even though we don't have a go-to superstar this year, I like our talent' and all-around team speed. We're a little suspect In the defensive end, at this point, but In time, we'll tighten that area and should be in good shape for the season." Prospect Coach: Tom Froats (3rd year) Last year: Key losses: Anthony Biafora (Harper), Ben Goldberg.

Ross Krewenka, Thorn Panek. Top returning players: Seniors, Nick Koch (D), Doug Ams (D), Mike Castronova (MF), Jeff Heltzman (MF); Juniors: Kevin Hallfn (MF), Jeff Kusciel Pontarelli (D). Promising newcomers: Junior Dave Peterson (D); Sopomore Krys- tlan Sobota (MF). Coach's comments: 'The players have done all that I've asked with great summer work-outs both on and off the field, We have a good mix talent and more depth than last year. Our goal is to challenge for the top 3 spots in the South and an eventual return to the Soccer Bowl as we did in '95.

Rolling Meadows Coach: Chuck Petersen (21 at year) Last year: Key losses: Greg Applequist, Joe Dydio, Scott Murray, Dan Ganatos, Mike Mlelas, Will Himes. Top returning players: Senior Ed Karolewski (GK); Juniors Glenn Paddock (D), Dan Predick (MF); Sophomores Tony Babicz (D); Patrick Granado(MF). Promising newcomers: Sophomores Todd Grossnickle (F), Jeff Rhodos (MF), Freshmen Jesse Mixson (MF), Jeff Tomaszewski (MF). Coach's comments: "We are very young this year, but they've been receptive to our coaching, work hard, and are enthusiastic. We are farther along at this point than any other team I've had.

We may struggle early, but will be very competitive at the end." Schaumburg Coach: Joe Gari (6th year) Last year: 16-3-3. 8-1-1, 1st in South, MSL Champs, rogional finalist. Key losses: Casey Pawlak (UW- Whltewater), Rob Schmidt (Lewis), Brian Radek (Case, OH), Joe Goooher. Top returning players: Seniors Dan Thorstenson (MF), John Komacki (D), Paul Radok (GK), Tom Ogorzalek (D), Justin Anderson (D). Promising newcomers: Senior Aric Sacks (D); Juniors Jamie Lauwers (MF), Dan Klek (F).

Coach's comments: "Our challenge will be to'plck up the oflonse with the loss of 3 of our top scorers. We have a bunch of good kids, who understand the importance of playing together as a team. The opportunity to succeed will bo there If the players continue with this attitude." North Suburban Libertyville Coach: Andy Bifta (1 8 years) Last year: 18-4-2, 7-0-0, Conference, Regional Sectional Champs, supersectional toss to Evanston. Key losses: Chris Mitchell (So. Alabama), Nelll Waters (Southern Indiana), K.C, Leahy (Lawrence, Top returning players: Seniors Neil Mahoney (MF), Nate Lamaire (D), Doug McNeil (D); Junior James Waters (MF).

Promising newcomer.s: Senior Loscar Majia (GK, transfer from Texas); Junior T.J. Newberg (F). Coach's comments: "The first couple of weeks of the season will be a test to see what we have and where we're going," Mundelein Coach: Dave Ekstrom (16th year) Last year: 10-11-2, OT loss in regional championship. Key losses: Mlks McCaulou (So. Alabama), Omar Avila (Lincoln Christian), Jesse Piland.

Top returning players: Seniors CarlosrHemandez (MF), Armando Arebato Scott Sawitz (GK); Juniors Ryan Barry (MF). Promising newcomers: Senior Mike Saibeck (D); Junior Gradecki (GK). Coach's comments: "Wo have very good players coming back, and we think we can replace our 3 biggest losses through Stevenson Coach: Mark Schartner (11th year) Last year: 16-6-1, 6-1-0, Won regional, sectional finalist Key losses: Jay DIPrizio, Chris Gugllemo, Tim Fergus, Jeff Gasnsr. Top returning players: Seniors Tony Logan (MF), Jeff Heckman (MF), Mike Steinberg Promising newcomers: Juniors Charlie Carter (MF), Erik Burchi (F); Sophomore Matt Stawiarskl (F). Coach's comment: "In addition to losing three top.players from last year's team, we've had an unusual fall camp that's included Injuries and transfers.

However, with our strong work ethic, and a solid defense, we look to finish strong and have a good playoff run." Central Suburban North Maine West Coach: Alan Matan (3rd year) Last year: 4-15-1 Key losses: Fred Rosslgnuolo (Carthage), Alex Rows. Top returning players: Seniors Sieve Gonzalez (MF), Mark Vana (F), Rick Pedl (F), Martin Landowskl (D), Adam Ryan (D). Tony DiVincenzo (GK), Miguel Ruiz (D), John Grande (D). Promising newcomers: Juniors Brian Regan (D), Tony Leprich (MF); Sophomore Ozzle Corte'z (MF)Coach's comments: "In our scrimmages and practice sessions we are looking good and beginning to jell as a unit. Our first 11 offers a lot of experience, but it's important'to remain healthy because we lack' depth at this point.

We must stay focused as a team to succeed." East Suburban Catholic Carmel Coach: Chris Mikrut (3rd year) Last year: 8-9 A Key losses: Brock Hendricks, Bill Whelan, Pete Braido (CLC). Top returning players: Seniors Mike Fassano (MF), Andy Webb (MF); Junior Andres Cerritos (F); Sophomore Pat Thomas (MF). Promising newcomers: Sophomore Mike Loizzi (F). Coach's comments: "This loam has a very good mix, with everyone thinking and playing alike. It will be important for us to start'strong to build our confidence which would carry over to a successful, competitive season." St.

Viator Coach: Mike Taylor (9th year) Last year: 17-2-4 ESC Champs Key losses: Randy Zmed (DePaul), Mike Andrews (DePaul), Mike Wilke, Kurt Fisher, Karl Schmidt, J.R. Howard, Brad O'Sulll- van. Top returning players: Seniors Nino DaSilva (F), Dan Storino (D), Chris Strahammer (GK); Sophomore Jared Payton (FJ. Promising newcomers: Juniors Tim Storino (MF). Tom Nolan (D).

Coach's comments: "Wo have pretty good depth this year which should help us sustain through a tough schedule, This team has a good attitude and a willingness to sacrifice, work hard, and not allow any egos to get In the way to win. We will have a successful season if we continue with that mind set." Upstate Eight Elgin Coach: Jim Lindbloom (122-79- season) Last season: 14-5-3, 5-3, fourth place in Upstate Eight. Lost to Palatine. 1-0, In regional final. Key losses: midfielders Dave Rodriguez (all-UEC, captain); Dave Schwaner; Kurt Holtz; and Manuel Sanchez.

Key returnees: Nick Dudziak, senior forward'(all-UEC, all-sectional); Shaun Rafferty, junior forward (all-area, all-UEC as sophmore); Ed Wijda, junior forward; Kevin Mattl, junior midfielder; Brian Mock, sophomore sweeper; Matt Ludemann, marking back; Justin Lesch, sophomore marking back; Jack Belinski, sophomore goalkeeper. Key newcomers: Mike Murray, senior midfielder; Kevin Wall, senior midfielder, Pete Gorousis, junior forward. Outlook: "I think we have our strongest team ever on the field," said Lindbloom, who returns seven starters from last year's unit. The Maroons ware extremely young last year, often starting as many as two sophomores and two freshmen, and stili won 14 games. They lose Rodriguez, whom Lindbloom called the team's best all-around player, but return plenty of talent at both ends.

The Maroons should score in bunches. The scorers of 29 of Elgin's 42 goals last year return, including Rafferty (10 goals), Dudziak (8), and Wijda (7) Lake Park Coach: Tom Castronova (1st year) Last year: 9-10-5 overall: 4-4 UEC Postseason: Lost to St. Charles 5-0 in the WW South regional final Key losses to graduation: Rob Czop (F). Ryan Baffa (M) Top returners: Nico Tricocl (sr. F), Andres Zangara (sr.

M), Brett Conradt (sr. M), Jemuel Jamis (sr. D). Jon Carlson (sr. G), Todd Lehky (jr.

G), Darren Carlson (jr. D) Newcomer to watch: Tommy Bowman (jr. M) Lancers outlook: With their third coach in as many seasons, they hope to rebound from their first sub- .500 season since 1990. Lake Park won't have the superstars it's had in recent years, but Tricoci does give the team a weapon up front. Jamis returns as an all-UEC player and will be the swoeper, while Jon Carlson and Lehky provide plenty of quality gqalkeeping experience.

Streamwood Coach: Rory Dames (3-10-3, second season) Last yean in UEC Key losses: all-state goalkeeper Mike Smith, all-sectional sweeper Vinnie Vasquez. Key returnees: Aldo Schumann, senior forward; Dave Kruk, senior; Jimmy Connor: senior defender; six freshmen starters return. Key newcomers: freshman Matt Sweeney Outlook: The key to the-season could be how well the Sabres' adjust to the loss of all-everything goalkeeper Smith, Streamwood's throe wins last year came on Smith shutouts. Also gone is sweeper Vasquez. On the upside, just about everybody else is back from last year's young team.

"It will be kind of an awkward transition; young but with some experience," Dames said. DuPage Valley Gtenbard North Coach: Art Alvarado (1st year) Last year: 14-7-2 overall; 4-6 (6th) DVC Postseason: Lost to St. Charles 4-0 in the WW South sectional semifinals Key lossos to graduation: Brian Hanyzewski (F), John Comfort (F), John Collins (M) Top returners: Greg Chrlsman (sr. Ryan Mams (sr. M), Phil Digrisona (sr.

D), Mike Purmann (sr. D), Nick Ruud (jr. D), Kevin King (sr. Darian Orcutt (jr. Newcomers to watch: Chad Jeremy (jr.

M), Reed Anders (jr. G), Nick Cooney Gr, Rich Ronning (jr. F), Luke Rothaar (sr. Brad Bichel (sr. D) Panthers outlook: Alvarado is the third coach in four years at Glenbard North, and he hopes to continue the success the Panthers have enjoyed during that time.

The team lost another talented group to graduation, but the strength the program should be able to compensate. Chrisman is an exciting, creative player up front. The midfield will also be a strcng point, but Alvarado said the team needs to mature and be stronger mentally. Suburban Catholic Driscoll Coach: Tanny Anchetta (2nd year) Last year: 12-3-3 Postseason: Lost to St. Charles 8-1 in the WW South regional semi- Top returners: Joe Bush (sr.

M), Scott Schlecter (sr. G), Brian Wright (sr. D), Ben Pinegar (sr. D), Pat Flanagan (sr. M), Bernie Bartelli (sr.

M) Brian Smith Ijr, M), Jonathan Philiipps (jr. F), Bill Hall (so. F), Tom McCarthy (so. D) Highlanders outlook: No one knew what to expect from Driscoll last year in its first season of varsity soccer. But alter knocking off some much more experienced programs, the Highlanders are ready to continue their quest for respect this season.

All 11 starters return, led by Bush in the middle. Driscoll is experienced everywhere, and the large core of seniors will be aiming to go out on a high note. This is the first yoar of varsity soccer in the four-team SCC. The Highlanders will surely be in. the hunt for the title as well as another upset in the state tournament.

St. Edward Coach: Tim Briegar (4-10-2, second season) Last year: 4-10-2 Key losses: all-area first team Tighe Ittner (second-leading scorer In school history); forward Tim Geiss. Key returnees: senior sweepter Mark Balongag; junior sweeper Mike Keating; junior midfielder Nick Esposito. Key newcomers: freshman John Balongag; senior Ricki Ruiz, Outlook: Despite graduation losses, Briegar believes the Green Wave will be better than last year's 4-10-2 squad. "We're a quicker and more complete team," he said, "Last year we relied too much on Tighe to win games.".