AUGUST 27, 2021, KEIZERTIMES, PAGE A17 forwards to make sure we are fi nishing,” Camarena said. While McNary has several veterans in the midfi eld, the same can not be said for the back line. After losing all-league defenders Jose Martinez and Miguel Gaytan, the Celtics will be thin on defense and will rely upon sophomore Tony Bravo and senior Carlos Sanchez on the back line. “That is going to be a challenge. The defenders we have don't have a lot of experience so one of the main things we need to do is work on our formation and get lots of repetitions so we can get used to where we need to be and what we will be looking for,” Camarena said. “We also need to continue working on pos- session. When you have the ball, most of the time, the opposing team has little chance to do something against us.” After splitting time in the net last year with Miguel Orduna, sophomore keeper Emerson Carella will take over as the main goalie for the Celtics. While there are question marks at some positions, Camarena believes there is enough talent on this roster for the Celtics to compete for a MVC title and head back to the playoff s — McNary has qualifi ed for the last four state play- off s but has been bounced in the fi rst round each time. “We strive for excellence and we are excited about what we have. I think we will be able to surprise a lot of people this year,” Camarena said. “Our goal is to win the conference and play with confi dence.” McNary opens their season by host- ing Nelson on Tuesday, Aug. 31 at 7 p.m. Oscar Chavez advances the ball upfield in a game from last season. Johnny Bravo will likely be one of the top midfielders in the MVC. FILE PHOTO, Keizertimes brainfood FILE PHOTO, Keizertimes crossword answers pg A21