By Pete Borello

Few, if any, public high schools in the Central Coast Section can match Los Altos High’s recent success in girls volleyball.

The Eagles have reached the CCS finals the past four seasons, claiming the championship in 1999.

Los Altos athletic director Monica Lodge wants the team’s success to continue, which explains why she’s so particular about whom she will hire as the team’s new coach.

“It has to be a real special person,” said Lodge, who has looked over about a dozen resumes since Jason Mansfield resigned in February to become an assistant with the Stanford University women’s volleyball team. “We need someone with a real strong coaching background who will get along well with the girls and their parents.”

Mansfield had all these qualities, according to Lodge. Mansfield posted a 90-38 record in his four seasons at the helm and was named CCS Fall Sports Honor Coach last year.

Seven players are expected to return from the 2001 team, which went 26-8 and lost to Presentation in the CCS Division III final. Five of the returners either started or played key roles on last season’s squad.

“We have such a high skill level here,” Lodge said. “That’s why we need a really strong coach and technician, and someone who can make volleyball a fun and positive experience for the girls.”

Although practice doesn’t begin until August 19, Lodge said she would like to hire a coach in the next week or two.

Lodge is also busy trying to find a new girls soccer coach for next winter and a gymnastics coach for the spring of 2003.

Those interested in applying for any of these coaching positions are asked to call Lodge at 960-8857.