ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

Natalie King

Fountain Valley, Softball

The Texas-bound pitcher proved why she is one of the county's best last week, recording four shutouts, giving up only eight hits and striking

out 53. And all of this came against some of the

county's stiffest competition. She struck out 14 in a 1-0 Sunset League victory over No. 6 Marina, then struck out 15 in a two-hit, 1-0 victory over No. 2 Foothill in the Baron Classic tournament championship game.

* Liz Morse

Corona del Mar, Track and Field

Won the 800 meters at the Arcadia Invitational in the nation's fastest time this season, 2 minutes 9.40 seconds.

* Kaitlin Sandeno

El Toro, Swimming

Set two meet records in the 500 freestyle (4:43) and 100 butterlfy (54.84) at the Foothill Swim Games.

Jon Holato

Canyon, Baseball

Holato, an All-Century League pitcher/first baseman last season, boosted his season totals last week as the Comanches scored 28 runs in two victories over Santa Ana Valley. He entered the week hitting .514 with 10 runs batted in and went five for five with three doubles, one triple and seven RBIs to help Canyon remain one game behind first-place and top-ranked Villa Park.

* Ryan Bousquet

Esperanza, Track and Field

Won the 1,600 meters at the Arcadia Invitational in the nation's fastest prep time this season, 4:09.37. Was named Times' athlete of the week on Nov. 2.

* Aaron Peirsol

Newport Harbor, Swimming

Won two events, anchored two winning relay teams and was named swimmer of meet at the Foothill Swim Games.

To nominate an Athlete of the Week, call (714) 966-5904 or fax (714) 966-5663.