MISSION VIEJO

Coach: Mike Pelton (21st year).

1996: 9-1, 5-0 in the South Coast League; the Diablos’ only loss last season was to Irvine.

Key returners: Tricia Anthony, Jr.; Jessica Dietrich, Sr.; Shchani Gunasena, Jr.; Jessica Klenner, So.; Jennifer Mouhkatel , Sr.; Christina Murphy, Jr.; Daniela Pacini, Jr.; Karli Rios, So.; Chelsea Rowlands, So.; Andrea Sargent, Jr.; Joey Squires, So.; Nicole Stanitsas, Jr.; Jennifer Swanson, So.; Rooshi Xaghobi , Jr.; Nicole Zemazck , Jr.

Key newcomers: Lindsey Hartmann , Fr.; Mari Okamura, So.; Roxana Raissian, Fr.; Melissa Ramsey, Fr.; Priscila Torres, Sr. (diver).

Outlook: Although Pelton downplays the impact his girls’ team will have on a tough South Coast League race this year, don’t believe it. With a career record of 295-4, Pelton does not like to lose. And with a lot of depth and talent, the Diablos have a real good chance of finishing in the top five at the Southern Section finals. Look for Sargent in the 100 backstroke and Murphy in the distance events. And freshman Hartmann will give the Diablos some strength in all the freestyle events and the butterfly.