OCVarsity is previewing every 11-man team in Orange County before the 2023 high school football season begins.
ORANGE COAST LEAGUE PREVIEW
CALVARY CHAPEL
Top players: Gavin Ghahyasi, WR/LB, Sr. Nathan Nieves, OL/DL, Sr.; Matthew Peters, QB, Jr.; Charles Sparks, WR/RB/DB, Jr. Manny Wright Jr., OL/DL, Jr.
What to expect: The Eagles have nine returning starters on offense and nine returning starters on defense from a team that was 4-6 overall and 3-3 (fourth place) in league. “Our entire offensive line is back,” said second-year coach Jack McInally. “That will play a big role in what we do.” Among those offensive linemen are team captain Nathan Nieves, who was all-league first team last year, and Manny Wright, who was all-league second team. With that line McInally anticipates a productive season from sophomore running back Waldo Castrejon. Junior QB Matthew Peters was a running quarterback last season. McInally said Peters will throw more often this season. Senior Nathan Nieves is Calvary Chapel’s best defensive lineman. McInally said turnovers were a frequent problem last season and he expects improvement in that category.
COSTA MESA
Top players: Marley Boynton, QB/DB, Sr.; Noah Genus, TE/LB, Sr.; Brett McDonough, RB/WR/DB, Sr.; Chris Rivera, WR/DB, Sr.; Diego Ramirez, RB/WR/DB, Sr.
What to expect: Senior Marley Boynton was the backup quarterback last season and was all-league second team as a safety for the Mustangs who were 3-7 overall and 1-5 in league. “He’s tough as nails,” said second-year coach Gary Gonzalez of Boynton. “He’s a good senior leader, and being such a good free safety he’s going to pick it up on how to play quarterback.” Senior Brett McDonough, a three-year starter, has played mostly at running back and slides over to slot receiver this season. “When we need a big play,” Gonzalez said, “he’s the guy we’re going to.” Costa Mesa has five returning starters on offense and five returning starters on defense….
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