Rangel Will Train With Top College Players

Marina’s Steffin Rangel, a 6-foot-5 senior middle blocker, is one of only two high school volleyball players in the country invited to train with the country’s top college players for the World University Games, scheduled in August in Beijing, China.

The training will take place in July and August at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colo. Chicago’s Sean Rooney, who will attend Pepperdine in the fall, is the other high school player invited. Rangel, a Times’ Orange County first-team selection, will be attending Brigham Young.

TRACK AND FIELD

The Pacifica High boys’ track and field team won its first CIF Scholastic State Championship with a 3.75 grade-point average.

Established in 1996, the statewide program recognizes teams and individuals who excel academically. Nominations are received by member schools.

The Cypress boys’ team (3.65 GPA) finished fourth.

In the girls’ track and field competition, Calvary Chapel and Pacifica finished tied for third place with 3.75 GPAs.

* Distance runner John Bensen of Seattle Christian High has signed to run cross-country and track at Vanguard, Lion Coach Bryan Wilkens said. Bensen placed fourth at the 2000 Washington state cross-country finals.

SOFTBALL

Sue Briquelet, who coached La Habra softball to seven titles in 10 seasons, has resigned to spend more time with her family. Briquelet compiled a 174-96-2 record.

HIRINGS

La Habra High has hired two varsity coaches, Athletic Director Frank McCarroll said. Lorraine Morales will take over as head coach of the girls’ basketball team and Stephen Aanderaud will head the boys’ soccer team.

Morales, a long-time assistant at the school, replaces McCarroll, who resigned his position at the end of last season. Aanderaud, who coached at Whittier Christian last year, takes over for Jimmy Reyes.