Region 6 boys soccer

(Coaches' predicted order of finish)

1. OLYMPUS: The Titans endured some early struggles but have since righted the ship and look to be a 4A contender once again. As far as Region 6 goes, they should be considered the early front-runner having beaten East, and the league title should come down to those two, with Highland perhaps sneaking into the mix. Junior Clay Broadbent will lead the way for the Titans going forward, whether he's playing up top or in midfield. GK Daniel Filippi helps anchor the backline, and Olympus will look to have others make key contributions. 2007 record: 14-3-1. Playoffs: Lost in quarterfinals.

2. EAST: With just two players starting in the same position they were in last year, it became obvious that the opening month of 2008 could be a rocky one for the Leopards. However, aside from a 2-1 early defeat to Mountain Crest and a 1-0 loss to region rival Olympus last week, East has been just fine. The two players that have filled the same positions as last year are star striker Stayner Langeland and steady 'keeper Coulson Wiscomb. Expect Chris Toronto, Matt Rider and Tim Berggren to also be key contributors. 2007 record: 14-3-1. Playoffs: Lost in quarterfinals.

3. WEST: Graduation took a big toll on coach Kris Hamlet's program, which will look to rebuild throughout the 2008 season. However, the Panthers came close to breaking through with a postseason win last spring, and they could still be a tough team once the 2008 postseason arrives. Through six games, Luis Cena has scored three goals and Jose Segura has added two. 2007 record: 9-5-3. Playoffs: Lost in first round.

4. HIGHLAND: Much of the buzz surrounding the Rams during the opening month of 2008 has been about young star striker James Rogers. Rogers was selected to the U-15 U.S. National team last December, and if he plays prep soccer for four years will surely become one of the state's stars. Through six games, he has scored five goals to help lead the Rams. Besides him, Erik Cortez (4 goals) and Ever Garcia (3 goals) have found the back of the net frequently. Highland traditionally has some of the top players in the state and could be very tough in the postseason. 2007 record: 7-9-1. Playoffs: Lost in first round.