Coach: Kent De Hoog

Last year: Finished 14th at the NWC Championships. Finished eighth at 1A tri-district meet. Finished 11th at the 1A State Championships.

Returning state participants: Trevor Burden (jr. 110 hurdles), Nathan Rusnak (so. 4x400), Connor Blok (jr. 4x400), Cody Velthuizen (sr. 4x400), Weston Whitener (jr. 4x400), Cody Spoelstra (jr. discus)

Others to watch: Sam Vander Griend (so. sprints), Tyler Reardon (sr. distance), Josh Friberg (jr. sprints, throws, jumps)

Outlook: With six returning state participants, including the entire 4x400 relay team that finished 14th at state last year, and a number of others, Lynden Christian has plenty of veterans this year. The Lyncs also have plenty of inexperience. Of the 30 boys who turned out this spring, 12 of them are first timers, including six freshmen. "We're expecting leadership from our veteran kids," De Hoog said in a phone interview. "As always the relays are going to be an emphasis for us. We're hoping to put together some competitive teams." Time will tell how that all materializes. De Hoog also expects LC to be strong in the distance events after a strong fall by the cross county team. Reardon should lead that group.

Reach DAVID RASBACH at david.rasbach@bellinghamherald.com or call 715-2271.