Coach: Katrina Henry

Last year: Finished third at the NWC Championships. Finished second at the 2A Northwest District meet. Finished third at the 2A State Championships.

Returning state participants: Kyler Reed (sr. 100, 4x100, 4x400), Chris Fredlund (jr. 800, 4x400), Jason Pfannenstiel (sr. 4x400), Patrick Gibson (sr. 1,600, 3,200*), Jonah Jacobson (sr. 4x100)

Others to watch: Dylan Dubuque (sr. mid-distance), Nick Gallaher (jr. mid-distance), Hunter Hanlon (jr. hurdles), Neall Koetje (jr. sprints)

Outlook: Already returning one of the best distance runners in the state in Stanford-bound Gibson, Squalicum has a number of other distance and mid-distance runners that could step up and make them even stronger. Now that he has experienced state, Henry said she expects Fredlund will be a medallist this year, joining Gibson. The Storm also should be strong in the relays, returning two state participants in the 4x100 and three in the 4x400 and adding Koetje, who could star in the sprints. Though the Storm lost a state champion in the shot put, Henry said she expects Kyle Stallo and Joel Jensen to step up. "My primary goal is for everybody to have fun, stay healthy and improve," Henry said. "But the talent we have, I think we could have a successful season. We just have to work hard and stay focused, and I think we could place at state."

*Returning state champion

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