1. Sehome: The Mariners have been historically dominant and have the pieces to be so again this year.

2. Squalicum: If the Storm can find a scoring threat, its hunger for a state berth may be satisfied.

3. Bellingham: The Red Raiders are fast and should score plenty with Larkyn Nelson, Kate Troutman and Mary Dyrland back.

4. Anacortes: With Mount Vernon's NWC departure, the Seahawks are the non-Whatcom County team to beat.

5. Meridian: Andrea Ames' club returns some strong players from its 2011 state team.

6. Burlington-Edison: Defense keeps clubs in matches, and the Tigers seem to always have a sturdy back line.

7. Lynden Christian: Coryn Bajema will be missed, but the Lyncs got a taste of state last year and have ambitions to return.

8. Ferndale: The defense was there last season, and Ferndale has scoring threats in Kelli Bannerman and Jordin Bartel.

9. Lynden: The Lions are young and have a new coach but talent is scattered throughout their lineup.

10. Blaine: The Borderites have gotten a year older and have tested seniors in the front, middle and the back.

11. Mount Baker: Scoring more goals is on Baker's mind. It has the personel to do so.

12: Nooksack Valley: Valentin Villalobos steps in as coach, and he has some talent to work with.

13. Sedro-Woolley: The rest of the 2A schools will now have to contend with the Cubs.

Reach ANDREW LANG at andrew.lang@bellinghamherald.com or call ext. 862.