FIVE WRESTLERS TO WATCH

TYREL CRONK

Mount Baker

Sr., 195

Outside of Alec Postlewait winning a state title last year, Mount Baker's Mat Classic was somewhat of a disappointment. Cronk provided another bright spot with his seventh-place finish. The Baker senior is strong, athletic and experienced. Those three traits usually spell out success in the postseason.

CALEB NEWMAN

Lynden

Sr., 220

Newman lost a pair of heartbreaking matches at the Mat Classic last year - one in overtime and one by a point. It's undoubtedly put a chip on his shoulder, and the Lions senior should be right in the mix to place come February.

KAM WILLIAMS

Ferndale

Sr., 220

Williams is another strong wrestler in what seems to be a nice crop of upper weight class Northwest Conference wrestlers this year. Williams qualified for state but didn't place last season. He'll be looking to medal in the final year of his wrestling career.

TITI LAMOSITELE

Sehome

Sr., 285

Lamositele may be more known for his football skill, but he opened a lot of eyes around the league last season. He came close to beating Mount Baker's Alec Postlewait in a pair of matches and would have been at state if it weren't for a rugby obligation. He has rare athleticism for his size and should contend at the Tacoma Dome.

JUSTIN BELDING

Blaine

Sr., 145

Belding was one point away in two state matches from earning a state medal. Coach Craig Foster raved about the work his senior has done in the offseason. Belding has wrestled since he was in elementary school, and has the ability to make a solid run at both regionals and the state tournament.

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