Football Tour XII

North Salinas (7-4, 6-1)
 The reward for producing its first winning season in five years and reaching the postseason was a promotion to the Gabilan Division.
 I'm not sure that was the right move for the Vikings.
 Not only did North Salinas lose a cast of starters to graduation, but it will be starting from scratch with new head coach Darren Spence.
 Are there some parts to work with? Sure. But this was a senior heavy team last fall, several of which had been up since their sophomore years.
 A solid core has arrived from the lower levels as North Salinas' junior varsity posted a 10-0 record. And Spence didn't make dramatic changes to the system.
 "It's easier for me to adjust than 140 kids,'' Spence said. "I've coached in an 'A' League before. We're going to be young. But I love our attitude.''
 Still it's hard to replace that leadership.
 Victor Nunez will look to fill a gap at running back for North Salinas, running behind lineman Brian Martinez.
 The most important thing Spence can preach to his players is patience.

 Check The Herald's website for an interview with North Salinas coach Darren Spence.