Fall Sports Preview 2022

Football

How Lynden can earn another title in 2023, Pg. 2

Volleyball

Page 12

Girls soccer

Page 20

Girls swim and Dive

Page 28

Boys tennis

Lynden, Ferndale tennis teams hitting the courts fresh this fall, Pg. 30

Cross Country

Page 34

Lions on quest to repeat

How Lynden can earn another title in 2022

By Connor J. Benintendi connor@lyndentribune.com

LYNDEN – As the 2022 season begins, the Lions have already defeated Ferndale— the one opponent that beat them last season.

Lynden went 12-1 last sea-

son, running through stout team after stout team. ey played the top-ranked team in the 2A classi cation, Tumwater, in the state championship game last December. Everyone thought they would fall, and instead they won by two touchdowns.

e Lions are now defending their golden ball from a year ago. ey returned nearly their entire o ense but had six holes to ll on defense. In week one, a shining star came through.

Senior linebacker Chris Elenbaas, a new starter, was

ying around the eld. Elenbaas picked up 15 total tackles in the 24-7 win over Ferndale on Friday, Sept. 2. Couple that with returning starter Lane Heeringa’s 15 total tackles, and that front seven isn’t See LIONS on C3

e Lynden Lions won the 2A state championship in 2021. (Connor J. Benintendi/Lynden Tribune)

missing a beat.

“When you’re a senior, people don’t realize what a huge difference it is to go from your junior year to your senior year,” VanDalen said. “It’s a fun group, I’ll tell you that.”

Lynden had to replace both cornerbacks, two defensive tackles and two linebackers, VanDalen said. at’s not a small task. Nevertheless, they shut down a Golden Eagles team that loves to run the football and is really good at it.

More kids turned out to the Lions’ summer weightlifting program than ever before. ey had eight scrimmages before the season began, primarily at Eastern Washington University during team camp.

is isn’t a football program that is afraid of what’s ahead.

“ at’s what’s so cool about these kids is they’re all so sel ess,” VanDalen said. “ ey cheer each other on as much as they root for themselves to do good.”

Senior Kaedan Hermanutz returns at quarterback, and he completed 6-of-9 passes for 94 yards and a touchdown in the seasonopener. Sophomore Brant Heppner will also get some reps in this season, and junior Charlie Ayres may see some time at quarterback or in the secondary as well.

“We’re just so blessed to have a returning quarterback like Hermanutz, and then these two young guys that get to learn, watch and see,” VanDalen

said. “Whenever I can get them in there and help them along, that’s only going to help us in the future as well.”

Seniors Lane Heeringa and Campbell Nolte are still lining up in the back eld after a dominant campaign last season.

Heeringa carried the ball seven times for 91 yards against Ferndale, including a 77-yard rumble.

Isaiah Stanley is a sure-handed possession receiver that pulled in ve catches for 56 yards and a touchdown in week one.

If you blink, this offense is already behind you. is is as complete of a team as they were in 2021, if not more. Bet against Lynden and they may be hoisting another gold ball in December.

Lynden’s Blake VanDalen won his rst state championship with Lynden as head coach of the team. (Connor J. Benintendi/Lynden Tribune)

Lynden

Key Returners:

QB - Kaedan Hermanutz, senior

RB/LB - Lane Heeringa, senior

RB/DB - Campbell Nolte, senior

WR/DB - Isaiah Stanley, senior

WR/DB - Collin Anker, senior

OL - Dane Gatterman, senior

OL - Kuyper Assink, junior

P/WR/DB - Troy Petz, senior

DL - Luke Winterberg, senior

The Scoop:

2021 record: 12-1

The Lions are returning 15 starters (35 seniors) to a team that is coming off a 2A state championship in 2021.

e Lynden Lions’ 2022 varsity roster is: Kobe Baar, Cody Postma, Kaedan Hermanutz, Cameron Petersen, Eli Migchelbrink, Brant Heppner, Trey Smiley, Isaiah Stanley, Campbell Nolte, Hunter Henderson, Troy Petz, Zach Welch, Jesse Stewart, Charlie Ayres, Kainoa Jandoc, Joshua Grace, Kaiden Lagerwey, Collin Anker, Carmelo Sanchez, Weston VanDalen, Cooper Moore, Brady Elsner, Jacob Uyttewaal, Jack Todd, Tristan omas, Bakker Hallberg, Luke Human, Adason Holzer, Isaiah Oudman, JJ Jenkins, Lane Heeringa, Dayten Gaskill, Koltin Visser, Clayton Wiesen, Santiago Lopez, Joe DeAndrea, Austin Barrett, Gabe Butenschoen, Seraphina Wiesen, Trey Baar, Sam Lafantasie, Gabe Oudman, Chris Elenbaas, Enrique Ramirez, Parker Williams, Jon DeAndrea, Kai Brown, Derek Marchwiany, Josh Bredeson, Bradley LeBlanc, Sean McDowell, Grant Reamer, Ryan VanBerkum, Isaiah Bueno, Bennett Roorda, Kuyper Assink, Luke Winterberg, Dane Gatterman, Josiah VanderHaak, Jesus Ortiz, Blake Holman, Gurjoban Khungha, Evan Schuyleman, Javier Zavala, Jakarri Weathermon Simmons, Jordy Gonzlez, Daniel Lopez, Talan DeMeyer, Jaydin Oaks, Darius Gilstrap, Josiah McSorley, Cooper Townsley, Braiden Luna.

e 2022 Lynden Lions’ football schedule and roster can be found at lyndenathletics.com

Among many highlights, the Lions’ biggest advantage may be the return of all five offensive lineman. Running backs Lane Heeringa and Campbell Nolte will have the chance to further build their chemistry with the big men up front in Lynden’s power run scheme. Kaedan Hermanutz will look to build off a solid 2021 season throwing the football. However, he is most dangerous when he utilizes his legs.

The Lions have some key returners in the defensive backfield; a secondary that consistently shut down offenses a year ago.

Lynden Christian

Key Returners:

RB/DE - Kade Eldridge, senior QB/DE - Jeremiah Wright, junior WR/DB - Tyler Sipma, senior WR/DB - Lane Dykstra, senior WR/DB - Braden Kuik, senior TE/LB - Kayden Stuit, junior

The Scoop:

2021 record: 7-3

The Lyncs may be hard-pressed to repeat their success of last season, which saw them reach the 1A state semifinals for the third straight season.

e Lynden Christian Lyncs’ varsity 2022 roster is: Gri n Dykstra, Tommy Meyer, Jonny Bouma, Jeremiah Wright, omas DenHartog, Brody Bouwman, Lane Dykstra, Dawson Bouma, Jackson VanderVeen, Tyler Sipma, Tyson Bajema, Treven Blair, Malachi VanderMey, Braden Kuik, Jayden Huleatt, Jude Decker, Isaac Paxton, Luke Moorlag, Mick Owen, Kayden Stuit, Oak Howell, Levi DeKoster, James Dick, Jace Ryan, Hollis Owen, Matthew Hagglund, Austin Engels, Trey Bosman, Kade Eldridge, Cooper Treat, Nicholas Molendyk, Jack Parriera, Carson Libolt, Dawson Walker, Jason Veenstra, PJ Klanica, Clayton Rutgers, Tyler Myhre, Trey Molendyk, Cole McClellan, Carter Seigman, Jacob Tolsma, Ransom Sche er, Jude VanderGiessen, Kole Kramer, Nolen Atkins, Grant Visser, Ashton Lenssen, Gunnar Parriera, Joshua Hubbard.

e 2022 Lynden Christian Lyncs’ football schedule and roster can be found at golyncs.com

This team’s ceiling is still very high. LC has enough athletic ability in multiple different positions to keep them in football games. Plain and simple. Running back and defensive end Kade Eldridge will only continue to bolster his game-wrecking resume this season. They have weapons on the outside in wide receivers Tyler Sipma, Lane Dykstra and Braden Kuik.

The offense can only hurt itself via quarterback play, which will be helmed by either Griffin Dykstra or Jeremiah Wright. Whichever one first-year head coach Greg Terpstra entrusts with the duties will have big shoes to fill.

Ferndale

Key Returners:

QB/DB - Bishop Ootsey, junior RB/LB - Isaiah Carlson, senior RB/DB - Dylan Moore, junior WR/QB/DB - Conner Walcker, junior OL/DL - Landen Hatchett, senior OL/DE - Jake Mason, senior OL/DL - Camden Raymond, junior TE/LB - Jordan Mason, senior

The Scoop:

2021 record: 7-3

The Golden Eagles are prepared to make another run at the postseason.

e Golden Eagles’ 2022 varsity roster is: Damien Toney, Devyn Smith, Bishop Ootsey, Jacob Gandy, Kleaveland Atwood, Zach Nielsen, Mathias Johnson, Matthias Johnson, Dylan Moore, Lincoln omas, Hunter Wills, Kevin Woods, Rand Dobbins, Carson Bob, Jacob Mattingley, Aydin OTool, Isaiah Carlson, Phoenyx Finkbonner, Israel Kennerley, Conner Walcker, Bryce McManus, Justin Melendez, Kaden Eldridge, Talan Bungard, Arturo Telles, Ruslan Yel mov, Benjamin Covington, Trenton Ford, Nate Inman, Luke Harris-Nelson, Jason Nowak, Jordan Mason, Nicholas Boulos, Alex Pallares, Cooper Herrick, Cole Henken, Karanjot Randhawa, Jaden Gallegos, Michael Turpin, Trevor Fetty, Isaac Ochoa, Santiago Esteban-Portes, Christian Kyle, Kellan Lafave, Wyatt Strait, Isaac McCreary, Jake Mason, Landen Hatchett, Justin Dudley, Emir Vargas, Lane Oostra, Dominic Bailey, Camden Raymond, Halston Hadrath, Jacob Kennedy, Brian Tackett, Adam Baader, Brandon Gutierrez, Will Poast, Kyler Bowen, Ryan Je erson.

e 2022 Ferndale Golden Eagles’ football schedule and roster can be found at ferndalegoldeneagles.com

With plenty of returning talent, Ferndale must be feared as one of the top teams in the 3A classification. Running back Isaiah Carlson is back and healthy. Landen Hatchett, Jake Mason and Camden Raymond are back in the trenches, among others. Quarterback Bishop Ootsey has a chance to open up the offense with his athletic ability. Wide receiver Conner Walcker is primed for a breakout season.

Ferndale’s defense should be nearly as good as its offense with numerous two-way players. The Golden Eagles added new weapons, while losing others. Either way, they are title contenders with their strong rushing attack.

Meridian

e Meridian Trojans’ 2022 varsity roster is: Eli Jensen, Jaeger Fyfe, Jameson Hedahl, Amrit Nagra, Brock Haugen, Nathan Larsen, Cohen Fuller, Brayden Hudspeth, Taylor Sharp, Ross Driscoll, Marcus Castaneda, Kelley Gray, Josh Elmer, Landen Downey, Hunter Jones, Aiden Mellema, Wyatt Duling, Jaxon Hurlbut, Mason Apeles, Rhett Duersch, Lincoln Hoefer, Lucas Stotts, Carson Campbell, Dane Spreckelmeyer, Daniel Larsen, Christian Clawson.

e 2022 Meridian Trojans’ football schedule and roster can be found at meridiantrojans.com.

The Scoop:

2021 record: 5-4

Continued from C7

Despite graduating some key weapons, the Trojans should be a better all-around football team this season.

First-year starting quarterback Jaeger Fyfe has been gives the keys to the offense, and the sophomore is a dynamic athlete. Returning starter at running back, Joshtyn Elmer will look to build on stellar seasons offensively and defensively. Senior Hunter Jones is a swiss-army knife on the field and can lineup almost anywhere on offense. Defensively, the Trojans should be better due to their maturation. Meridian was another very young team last season, which will benefit them in 2022.

Look for Meridian to make some noise this year, particularly from their budding stars.

Nooksack Valley

Key Returners:

QB - Joey Brown, junior

QB/RB/LB - Colton Lentz, sophomore

WR/DB - Cory Olney, sophomore

WR/LB - Ryan Hughes, senior

WR/DB - Jackson Bennett, junior

OL/DE - John Stremler, junior

OL/DL - Duke Halaapiapi, junior

OL/DE - Brady Ackerman, sophomore

The Scoop:

2021 record: 4-5

The Pioneers have a legitimate chance to be sneaky good this season.

e Nooksack Valley Pioneers’ 2022 varsity roster is: Jackson Bennett, Kasey Newton, Cory Olney, Ryan Hughes, Skyler Whittern, Evan Bravo, Jorgen Vigre, Colton Lentz, omas Abell, Joseph Brown, Shon Visser, Jaxon Hester, Evan Brown, Cole Coppinger, Tristan Kamphouse, Colby Martin, Trevan Brisky, Cole Bauman, Freddy Garcia, Jordan Miner, Skyler Torres, Crew Bauman, Wayne Silves, Owen Wickers, Jake Lange, Dylan Reimer, Weston Silves, Drew Devries, Peter Schild, Aaden Huante, Cameron O’Bryan, Andrew Dugger, Daemion Perez, Matthew Blake, Cian Coppinger-Carter, John Stremler, Chase Clawson, Colton Cuperus, Dalton Hickey, Adlei Whitworth, Lance Vanberkum, Logan Harlan, Owen Bunker, Cohen Ho ord, Gabriel Snyders, Brady Ackerman, Brock Lankaar, Sebastin Finkbonner, Duke Halapiapi, Braxton Cicogni, Lorenzo Raga, Shane Stap, Jake Lautenbach, Muhammad Azzam, Freddy Hernandez, Landon Tilton, Landen Stau er, Davien Hu , Kaiden Moorlag, Brian Leyerly, Kaden Visser, Caleb Visser.

e 2022 Nooksack Valley Pioneers’ football schedule and roster can be found at nooksackpioneers.com

NV was an extremely young team last season, rostering 23 freshmen and 14 sophomores on varsity last season. Their offense will flourish under second-year starting quarterback Joey Brown, who poses a dangerous threat with his legs. Cory Olney, Jackson Bennett and Ryan Hughes have big shoes to fill at wide receiver, but that shouldn’t be a problem for them.

Defensively, watch out for the force of nature that is John Stremler on the edge.

They are a quiet 1A NWC favorite if they can put all the pieces together.

Mount Baker

Key Returners:

QB/DB - Landon Smith, senior RB/LB - Marcques George, senior RB/LB - Brady West, senior RB/DB - Wilhem Maloley, senior WR/DB - Landen Hanstead, junior TE/LB - Dylan Moa, sophomore OL/DL - Alex Maloley, junior OL/DL - Ethan Larson, senior

The Scoop:

2021 record: 5-4

The Mountaineers were more successful in 2021 than their record shows, reaching the 1A state tournament.

e Mount Baker Mountaineers’ 2022 varsity roster is: Landon Smith, Brice Cooper, Luke Smith, Jef Ross, Marcques George, Landen Hanstead, Wilhem Maloley, Hayden Rosse, Dylan Moa, Brady Bruland, Shaun Duggar, Bryson Moa, Jordin Sande, Camden Moa, Brady West, Cameron Heysk, Malik Mostafa, Alder Giarde, Vance Lawrence, Drake Pinkey, Alex Maloley, Ethan Larson, Jesse Harward, J.J. Madera, Ernesto Altona, K.J. Chapman, Ryan Carter, Tanyen Staton, Riley Kruse, Logan Reeves, Caden Mosher.

Their biggest upside offensively is returning senior running back Marcques George, who split carries with now-graduated Jesse Sande a year ago. Mount Baker will have a backfield-by-committee once again this year.

Injuries plagued the team last season, and the Mountaineers will have multiple two-way players back in 2022. Alex Maloley is expected to be very productive in the defensive trenches, as the team also gets Landon Smith back full-time in the secondary.

If Smith can run the offense at quarterback, Mount Baker could be dangerous.

The 2022 Mount Baker Mountaineers’ football schedule and roster can be found at gobakerathletics.com

Lynden

Key Returners:

L - Mya VanderYacht, junior OH - Ashley Shumate, junior OH - Haylee Koetje, senior S - Grace Rice, junior MB - Kayla DeJong, senior DS/S - Lucy White, senior

The Scoop:

2021 record: 15-7

The Lions are primed for a big 2022 season.

Lynden graduated just two seniors last year, and returned the entire nucleus of their starting group. They took second in the district tournament and picked up one win at the 2021 2A state tournament.

That experience should port over into this season, giving the Lions an edge many other NWC teams didn’t get.

e Lynden Lions’ 2022 varsity roster is: Mikiya Nyho , Mya VanderYacht, Lucy White, Kasi omas, Joslyn Sipma, Grace Rice, Ava Langstraat, Kayla DeJong, Ashley Shumate, Rian Stephan, Haylee Koetje.

Lynden returns their two fiercest outside hitters in Haylee Koetje and Ashley Shumate, as well as aces Grace Rice and Lucy White. The return of Mya VanderYacht at the libero adds further stability to the Lions’ defense.

There are a lot of wins in this team’s future.

2022 Lynden Lions’ volleyball schedule and roster can be found at lyndenathletics.com

Lynden Christian

e Lynden Christian Lyncs’ 2022 varsity roster is: Sydney Faber, Ella Fritts, Audrey Ellingboe, Avery Lenssen, Kenadi Korthuis, Allison Wright, So a Rader, Malia Johnson, Addison DeJong, Reganne Arnold, Madison Kooy, Tabitha DeJong, Karlie Korthuis.

e 2022 Lynden Christian Lyncs’ volleyball schedule and roster can be found at golyncs.com

The Scoop:

2021 record: 10-8

The 2021 season saw the Lyncs become the ultimate Cinderella story in high school sports. After emerging from districts with an 8-7 record, LC found themselves playing in 1A state championship game following two dominant wins in the state tournament.

Some key players have graduated, but a handful of those who got regular playing time in the postseason have returned. Bringing back senior libero Sophia Rader will be key for the Lyncs’ defense. Outside hitter Reganne Arnold will be expected to be even more effective on offense. Senior setter Kenadi Korthuis’ return should help with that. LC has a shot to be a dark horse NWC favorite.

Continued from C14

Meridian

Key Returners:

L - Avery Neal, senior OH/DS - Rainn Hull, senior S - Hayden Claeys, senior MB - Jessica Pounder, senior RS - Emry Claeys, junior

The Scoop:

2021 record: 19-3

The reigning 1A District 1 champions. Meridian was a force to be reckoned with in 2021, going on to finish third at the state tournament.

Many of those core players have since graduated, but there are some sticking around for another go. Two of the Claeys sisters, Hayden and Emry, are returning. They will be expected leaders of this team under head coach Shannon Claeys. Libero Avery Neal also returns to anchor the defense, which she did exceptionally well last season.

Setter Rainn Hull and middle blocker Jessica Pounder will get even more playing time than they did last season. The pair were solid contributors in 2021.

Meridian’s fate lies in the hands of the underclassmen who will be expected to step up this season.

e Meridian Trojans’ 2022 varsity roster is: Hayden Claeys, Emry Claeys, Rainn Hull, Rylan Bernardy, Maren Wefer, Avery Neal, Katie Weg, Jessica Pounder.

Ferndale

Key Returners:

L/S - Mallory Butenschoen, junior L/DS - Aysia Mitchell

OH/RS - Morgan Hayes, senior S - Brooklyn Cagle, senior MB - Tia Gilday, junior RS - Madisyn Butenschoen, senior

e Meridian Trojans’ 2022 varsity roster is: Tatum Fox, Katrina Ferry, Morgan Hayes, Tia Gilday, Hannah Heinrichs, Mallory Butenschoen, Aysia Mitchell, Aliyah Lafave, Madisyn Butenschoen, Lay Williams, Brooklyn Cagle.

The

Scoop: 2021 record: 19-2

It may be difficult for the Golden Eagles to repeat their success from 2021 in 2022. That’s not a knock against the new teamthey were just that good.

Ferndale lost their best outside hitters in Alyvia Semu and Kaelee Bungard. However, they return Morgan Hayes, who will likely assume that top role. She showed she can effectively fill that spot during her time on the court last year. Possibly the Golden Eagles’ best player, Brooklyn Cagle, is back to run the offense at setter. The Butenschoen sisters, Mallory and Madisyn, were integral pieces in 2021 and will expected to fill even larger roles in 2022. We should see another strong season from Ferndale this year as they certainly possess the talent for another postseason run.

e 2022 Ferndale Golden Eagles’ volleyball schedule and roster can be found at ferndalegoldeneagles.com

Nooksack Valley

Key Returners:

OH - Hallie Kamphouse, senior OH/MB - Lainey Kimball, junior S/RS - Devin Coppinger, junior MB - Taylor Lentz, senior MB - Tana Hoekema, junior

The Scoop:

2021 record: 11-7

The Pioneers were a victim of the district tournament format in 2021, despite having the talent to be a state tournament-caliber squad.

NV has enough returning pieces to be equally as effective on offense this year as they were last. Lethal outside hitters Hallie Kamphouse and Lainey Kimball are both back. Devin Coppinger returns to make passes.

e Nooksack Valley Pioneers’ 2022 varsity roster is: Faith Bartl, Hallie Kamphouse, Kaylee DeWispelaere, Ryan Ross, Cailyn Likkel, Taylor Lentz, Devin Coppinger, Juliana Gimmaka, Payton Bartl, Lainey Kimball, Tana Hoekema, Avery Juergens, Grace DeHoog.

Defensively, middle blockers Taylor Lentz and Tana Hoekema were the anchors last season. They will get a chance to build on that in 2022.

The team had a number of sophomores who didn’t see the court as much as others, and they will be expected to step up into larger roles. Assuming that’s a success, the Pioneers should be a strong conference contender once again.

e 2022 Nooksack Valley Pioneers’ volleyball schedule can be found at nooksackpioneers.com

Mount Baker

Key Returners:

L/DS - Luci Hughes, senior OH - Rylee Ross, senior OH/MB - Hayley Jimmie, senior S - Grace LaVergne, senior S/RS - Annalee Cohn, sophomore

The Scoop:

2021 record: 8-11

The Mountaineers struggled in 2021, particularly in conference play. It’s tough to blame them with how loaded the NWC was a year ago.

Heading into 2022, Mount Baker has some strong returning starters that should help the team be more consistent.

e Mount Baker Mountaineers’ 2022 varsity roster is: Mycah Chala, Grace LaVergne, Rylee Ross, Kaia Gesmundo, Annalee Cohn, Natalie Horsmon, Molly Zamzow, Hayley Jimmie, Gracelyn Zender, Luci Hughes, Kennedy Rathjen, Jennavie Wineinger.

They will return senior outside hitters Rylee Ross and Hayley Jimmie, who were bright spots for the team last season. Sophomore setter Annalee Cohn can make the right pass and bolster the defense in her second season with the team.

Senior libero Luci Hughes will be a defensive anchor while Grace LaVergne returns as the team’s proven setter. Nevertheless, there will be some unproven talent that needs to step up if the Mountaineers want to get out of districts in 2022.

e 2022 Mount Baker Mountaineers’ volleyball schedule and roster can be found at gobakerathletics.com

Lynden Christian

Key Returners:

MID - Grace Hintz, sophomore

MID - Demi Dykstra, senior

MID - Daisy Poag, senior

MID - Eliza Kamphouse, junior

DEF - Taryn Herwerden, senior DEF - Grace Kroontje, senior

The Scoop:

2021 record: 5-5-4

The Lyncs have a good shot at improving from their 2021 season.

LC lost six seniors from a year ago, most of which were big contributors. That being said, they have ample young talent and senior leadership that will help them in 2022. The team’s four ties last season will need to be improved, as their offense struggled to put the ball in the back of the net at times.

e Lynden Christian Lyncs’ varsity 2022 roster is: Jessa Wynstra, Hannah Terpstra, Jorja Bouma, Eliza Kamphouse, Kayla Yun, Megan Engelsma, Taryn Herwerden, Tessa Hendricks, Alina Veltkamp, Demi Dykstra, Alexie Hagen, Andi Anderson, Daisy Poag, Grace Hintz, Avery Langstraat, Rylee Postma, Grace Kroontje, Ellie VanLoo, Taya DeRuyter, Estela Hernandez, Taryn Blankers, Addison Arnold.

With a handful of returning midfielders and forwards, that will be a focal point.

Senior defenders Taryn Herwerden and Grace Kroontje will look to hold down the back end, and that should be as, or more, solid than a year ago.

If the Lyncs expected leaders show up, LC should be in good shape by the time districts roll around.

e 2022 Lynden Christian Lyncs’ girls soccer schedule and roster can be found at golyncs.com

e Lynden Lions’ 2022 varsity roster is: Samantha Escobar, Jayda Villars, Maliah Mitchell, Morgyn Heutink, Gabriella Selcho, Reta VanderMey, Mallary Villars, Faith VanBrocklin, Miley Tjoelker, Paige Brouwer, Sloan Dickson, Adia Newcomb, Miranda Basart, Devin VanZanten,Evelyn Saldivar, Annabelle Uyttewaal, Degitu Bowler, Megan Sloane.

e 2022 Lynden Lions’ girls soccer schedule and roster can be found at lyndenathletics.com

The Scoop:

2021 record: 11-6

The Lions have a legitimate chance at a deep postseason run in 2022.

Lynden graduated just three seniors from their 2021 team, which was already a power player in the NWC. The team’s offense was potent, and the defense was even better.

With multiple sophomores who received ample playing time last year, the Lions’ postseason experience last season will translate well into 2022. Expect to see this team making a splash in districts and potentially further.

Continued from C21

Meridian

Key Returners:

FWD - Brooklyn Fuller, sophomore

FWD - Savannah Storgaard, junior

DEF - Sofia Brooks, sophomore

GK - Gracie Knutson, senior

The Scoop:

2021 record: 4-12-2

The Trojans are looking to improve upon a difficult 2021 season.

This year, the team will be led by new head coach Maddie Nolton, who experience assisting with the WWU women’s soccer team and other

youth programs in Whatcom County. Nolton will look to help Meridian get out of the district tournament this season, and hopefully further.

The Trojans have a number of young talents returning, including sophomores Sophia Brooks and Brooklyn Fuller.

They, as well as the veteran leadership, will be leaned on heavily. Meridian has a chance to make more of an impact in 2022.

e Meridian Trojans’ 2022 varsity roster is: Mariah Evans, Gracie Knutson, Ocean McMains, Jasmine DuCette, Alexis Neil, Mia Blankenship, Erica Stotts, Hailey Horsmon, Olivia Rowley, Brooklyn Fuller, So a Brooks, Morgan Adams, Jovi Jensen, Allie Richter, Katie Nolton, Maddy Hughes, Katie Prengaman, Savannah Storgaard, Kennedy Farrar, Chloe Knutson.

e 2022 Meridian Trojans’ girls soccer schedule and roster can be found at meridiantrojans.com

Ferndale

Key Returners:

FWD/MID - Audrey Holdridge, junior MID - Christine Broselle, senior DEF/MID - Emily Holdridge, junior DEF - Samantha Nowak, junior The Scoop: 2021 record: 13-6-2

The Golden Eagles, despite being a younger team, saw immense success in 2021.

e Ferndale Golden Eagles’ 2022 varsity roster

is: So a Gardoski, Jaiden O’Neill, Diana Cacho, Madison Lunde, Kayla Washington, Layne Lively, Eowyn Schivitz, Audrey Holdridge, Mia Kinsfather, Analeigh Adams, Samantha Nowak, Emily Holdridge, Isabelle Vargas, Kayt Sierra, Dakota Stroebel, Ellie Martinson, Athena Hodges, Christine Broselle.

Ferndale earned a 3A state tournament berth before being knocked off by Bonney Lake, 3-2. Juniors Audrey and Emily Holdridge were two of the Golden Eagles’ key players on both ends of the pitch, and each will be back this season.

If Ferndale’s growth continues upwards with their young core, they could make a further push into the state tournament in 2022. Senior midfielder Christine Broselle is one the team’s three seniors, and will be among the Golden Eagles’ leaders.

Ferndale has tremendous upside with the amount of underclassmen that will see significant playing time.

e 2022 Ferndale Golden Eagles’ girls soccer schedule and roster can be found at ferndalegoldeneagles.com

Nooksack Valley

Key Returners:

MID - Keana Mora, sophomore MID/FWD - Alayna Dykstra, sophomore GK - Alex Veening, senior

The Scoop:

2021 record: 3-14-1

NV wasn’t able to get much going in 2021.

The Pioneers’ list of returners is short. Much of the veteran players from last season are not listed on the team’s 2022 roster, which means this is a largely new group as opposed to last season.

e Nooksack Valley Pioneers’ 2022 varsity

roster is: Chayleigh Davis, Alex Veening, Keana

Mora, Alayna Dykstra, Naomi Hjort, Makenzie

Likkel, Cece Rogers, Kennedy Brown, Sydney

Howe, Maggie Byers, Kate Shinta er, Carly

Harr, Alexys Agustin Mendoza, Kaylee Stoops, Phoebe Hunt, Alexa Anaya, Shelby Mason, Valeria Salazar, Sarah Isenhart.

The team will have one senior, goalkeeper Alexandra Veening. There are eight rostered sophomores, as well as nine freshman.

It’s safe to say this is going to be a young, fresh team.

It also means that opponents may not know what to expect each time the Pioneers step onto the pitch. Whether that bodes well for NV or not, 2022 will be a season of first for many players on the team.

Other returners Keana Mora and Alayna Dykstra will have to step up and help out the newer players to push along the Pioneers’ development.

Mount Baker

Key Returners:

DEF - Gardenia Lopez-Ayon, senior DEF - Edith Contreras Moreno, senior DEF - Jasmine Jefferson, senior FWD - Victoria Walker, junior

The Scoop:

2021 record: 1-16

Mount Baker can only go up from where they finished last season.

Luckily for the Mountaineers, they graduated just one senior and will return many underclassmen to the team.

e Mount Baker Mountaineers’ 2022 varsity

roster is: Adrian Benish, Ana Camacho, Edith Contreras Moreno, Ava Drafs, Josephine Graham, Jasmine Je erson, Gardenia Lopez-Ayon, Rhonda Madera, Emily Minio, Tyla Olson, Lillian Petersen, Toriana Slette, Victoria Walker, Abigail Washburn, Melanie Wilson.

A focus for them will have to be offense, as Mount Baker scored just six goals during the entire 2021 season. If they can make it into districts and perform there, the Mountaineers could be looking at a much improved season in 2022.

To get there, the team will need strong leadership from their four seniors: Adrian Benish, Edith Contreras Moreno, Jasmine Jefferson and Gardenia Lopez-Ayon. They also have five juniors and four sophomores on the roster, which gives the team a chance to build something for the future.

Assuming they improve from last year, the Mountaineers could come out of nowhere.

e 2022 Mount Baker Mountaineers’ girls soccer schedule and roster can be found at gobakerathletics.com

e Lynden Lions’ 2022 varsity roster is: Natalie Amsberry, Abigail Bareman, Breanna Bogard, Kayla Bogard, Ella Bredeson, Amberly Briskin, Lana Burrill, Priya Dhaliwal, Faith Diephuis, Mara Esparza, Eva Goldston, Noelle Heatwole, Lillian Holt, Paige Logsdon, Belen Lopez, Victoria Mackenzie, Ashley Morales-Mejia, Kaitlin Morris, Kalissa Robinson, Abigail Small, Anneka Swaney, Anna Young.

e 2022 Lynden Lions’ girls swim and dive schedule and roster can be found at lyndenathletics.com

Key Returners:

Breanna Bogard, junior Priya Dhaliwal, senior

Lynden Ferndale

Key Returners:

Madison Helt, senior Natalie Darr-Rehmert, senior

e Nooksack Valley Pioneers’ 2022 varsity roster is: Vanessa Avalos, Luz Alcala, Emilia Belous, Aiyana Brown, Meadow Childs, Natalie DarrRehmert, Taylor George, Daniela Gopar-Barriga, Madison Helt, Carley Hougen, Alicia James, Naima Je erson, Sylvie Lausier, Kaydence Leifheit, Grace Lewis, Marissa Miller, Natalie Nunez, Cara Sytsma, Sanhya apa, Shanti apa, Samantha Toepper, Aubree Wouters.

e 2022 Ferndale Golden Eagles’ girls swim and dive schedule and roster can be found at ferndalegoldeneagles.com

Boys Tennis

Lynden, Ferndale tennis teams hitting the courts fresh this fall

Coaches looking to younger, returning players to take reins after graduating more than half their rosters

By Taras McCurdie For the Tribune

WHATCOM — All good things must come to an

end, especially for coaches when the majority of players on the roster won’t be coming back the following year. But that end can also

be seen as a new beginning for those coming into the program.

With the season having already begun on Wednes-

day, Sept. 7, the Lynden and Ferndale high schools are preparing to compete

See TENNIS on C31

Lynden tennis assistant coach Tim Newcomb talks to his team during practice on Tuesday, Sept. 6. (Taras McCurdie for the Tribune)

Tennis: Both northern Whatcom County teams reloading in 2022

Continued from C30

this year with a few young returners as well as new additions to the teams.

Lynden (2A)

e Lions are a good example of that new beginning.

ey graduated seven seniors last year: Perry Wakatsuki, Jake Tucker, Coleson Blankers, Jacob Anderson, Jett Moore, Joey VanHofwegen and Kai Hutchison.

Last season, [Perry] Wakatsuki held the rst singles spot with Tucker at third singles, Blankers and Anderson at rst doubles, Moore and VanHofwegen at second doubles and Hutchison and his partner, Ryan Broersma, at third doubles.

In addition to Broersma returning, Cooper Graddon, Andrew Hoekema and Brady Wakatsuki will be coming back this year and looking to take charge of those open singles positions.

Last season, Hoekema played second singles with Graddon at fourth singles, so they are coming into this year with plenty of singles experience. is season, Hoekema will be playing second singles and Graddon will be holding the rst singles position. Broersma, who was in third doubles last year, will be ready to face his competition as the fourth singles player this year. And [Brady] Wakatsuki, who played mainly exhibition matches last year,

has improved for this season and will be ready to take on the third singles spot.

“We have a young team this year, so I don’t have high expectations. We are improving each day, but our league is one of the toughest leagues in the state for 2A,” head coach Trey Ballard said. “So even when I have an experienced team, our league is tough. From last season to this season, [we are] basically trying to improve the positions we lost.

e seniors who graduated, we’re trying to replace with younger players. And that is always challenging.”

e Lions placed seventh in the 2021-22 season with a 3-5 league record and 25 individual wins and 31 individual losses and a 4-10 overall record with 39 individual wins and 59 individual losses.

Graddon, [Perry] Wakatsuki and Tucker all made it to the 2A District tournament last year. Graddon won his rst match 6-0, 7-6, but was eliminated from the tournament after losing 0-6, 0-6, in his second match to what would be the fourthplace nisher. In their rst matches of the tournament, Wakatsuki lost 7-5, 1-6, 6-7 and Tucker also lost 6-4, 2-6, 3-6.

Ballard said he is excited to see the growth of all his players this season. e team performed well last year in districts, and the goal for the team each year, Ballard said, is for players to be playing their best tennis once the postseason arrives.

e Lions’ rst match of the season was on Wednesday, Sept. 7, where they lost

Continued on C32

Lynden’s Cooper Graddon hits the ball during practice on Tuesday, Sept. 6, at the Lynden Middle School tennis courts. (Taras McCurdie for the Tribune)

Ferndale’s Jonas Carpenter hits the ball during practice on Tuesday, Sept. 6. (Taras McCurdie for the Tribune)

Continued from C31

4-3 to Burlington-Edison. e Lions travel to Sedro-Woolley for their next match on ursday, Sept. 8.

Ferndale (3A)

e Golden Eagles are another example of a new beginning.

ey graduated seven seniors last year: Curtis Adler, Samuel Draper, James Harkleroad, Timothy Jones, Jonathan Lolkema, Sean Morrison and Jesse Pahlka. However, Kyle Henken, Matthew Hippner, Jarrod Pahlka, Camden Schauer and Christopher Smith will all be returning along with some new additions.

One thing the team is working to improve upon from last season, according to head coach Rudy Vendiola, is becoming more consistent with groundstrokes. Vendiola’s favorite part of last season was seeing the growth of the players on both teams as well as having his son, Docavie, coach the junior varsity team. What Vendiola is most excited about this season is that last year’s players have improved, and the new players coming into the program bring

plenty of athletic ability and energy.

He said the team has set the following team goals for the tennis program: compete in every match and challenge, improve upon tennis skills and have fun.

e team placed 11th in the 2021-22 season with a 1-10 league record and 12 individual wins and 65 individual losses and a 1-13 overall record with 14 individual wins and 84 individual losses.

“ is year, we had a group of students working on their tennis game over the summer,” Vendiola said. “I’m excited for them to showcase their improvement of their tennis game. We also have a group of students who haven’t played tennis before, and I’m excited to see their growth and improvement during the season. We have ve returning players and ve new players to the varsity squad.”

e rst match of the season for the Golden Eagles was on Wednesday, Sept. 7, against Mount Vernon where they lost 7-0.

eir next match is against Sehome on Monday, Sept. 12.

-- Taras McCurdie can be reached at tennissoccer@comcast.net.

Ferndale’s Jarrod Pahlka hits the ball during practice on Tuesday, Sept. 6. (Taras McCurdie for the Tribune)

Thank you to all of the community members for supporting your local high school sports teams and players. We appreciate the parents, guardians, teachers, coaches, and fans who have been there every step of the way.

And thank you to the community-minded businesses who sponsored this sports preview.

This wouldn’t be possible without you!

Lynden

Key Returners:

Cooper Graddon, junior

Ryan Broersma, junior

Andrew Hoekema, senior Brady Wakatsuki, junior

e Lynden Lions’ 2022 varsity roster is: Ryan Broersma, Cooper Graddon, Andrew Hoekema, Malachi Kok, Luke Muljat, David Polinder, Collin Rast, Landon VanDyk, Luke VanKooten, Gustav VanRooyen, Brady Wakatsuki.

e 2022 Lynden Lions’ boys tennis schedule and roster can be found at lyndenathletics.com

Ferndale

Key Returners:

Kyle Henken, senior

Matthew Hippner, junior

Jarrod Pahlka, sophomore

Camden Schauer, junior

Christopher Smith, junior

e Ferndale Golden Eagles’ 2022 varsity roster is: Kyle Henken, Jonas Carpenter, Maddox Gemin, Matthew Hippner, Luke Jones, Jarrod Pahlka, Camden Schauer, Christopher Smith, Elias Tasi, Jack Wasilewski.

e 2022 Ferndale Golden Eagles’ boys tennis schedule and roster can be found at ferndalegoldeneagles.com

Lynden

The Scoop:

2021 state meet participants: Emmy Kroontje, Kai Wolfisberg, Caleb Schouten, Gage Ellis.

The Lions sent four total athletes to state cross country meets in 2021, three of which are returning for the 2022 season.

e Lynden Lions’ 2022 boys cross country roster is: Maddox Aquino, Evan Bajema, Isaac Bajema, Andrew Bargen, Treyson Beanblossom, Aaron Briscoe, Samuel Clarke, Avery Cobb, Connor Corzine, Gage Ellis, Jude Ellis, Chibueze Eze, Conner Henry, Evan Holmes, Max Jones, Grayson Kelley, Blaise Lovegren, Jared McCrory, Zane McKay, Anthony Medina, Vincent Medina, Daniel Mrak, Mason Namminga, Colby Nosbusch, Cooper Oliver, Elijah Rinehart, Caleb Rus, Jose Sanchez Gutierrez, Alex Schilperoort, Caleb Schouten, Eugenio Sotomayor, Ethan Spoelstra, Peter Tamminga, Everett Taylor, Hudson Taylor, Dylan Wilhite, Porter Wilhite, Ethan Williams, Kai Wol sberg.

e Lynden Lions’ 2022 girls cross country roster is: Jorja Dyck, Anna Ellis, Eve Ellis, Dakota Feller, Ella Frerichs, Alena Heeringa, Mallorie Hutchins, Lucy Jones, Alicia Llovet Ribalta, Anja Lovegren, Charlotte Martin, Audrey Ward, Sierra Wyant.

Kai Wolfisberg, Caleb Schouten and Gage Ellis will all be back and looking to build on stellar seasons.

Wolfisberg and Schouten are each seniors, while Ellis is a junior. Wolfisberg finished 54th at state, as Schouten finished 57th and Ellis took 74th. All three will have a chance to improve upon those finishes in 2022.

On the girls side, now-graduated Emmy Kroontje was the first Lynden girls runner to reach the 2A state meet in nearly 15 years.

The Lions will have three seniors on the 2022 team, who will try and follow in Kroontje’s footsteps: Anna Ellis, Anja Lovegren and Sierra Wyant.

This will be a promising Lynden group of runners who will definitely be sending runner back to state in 2022.

Lynden Christian

The Scoop:

2021 state meet participants: Maya Ewing, Katrina Luce, Andrew Luce.

The Lyncs are returning one of their three state qualifiers from a year ago: Andrew Luce.

The senior finished sixth at the 2021 1A state meet with a time of 16:39.80. Luce has a legitimate shot at a state title this season, as three of the finishers ahead of him from a year ago have now graduated.

LC has only four girls runners in 2022. Senior Lydia TerBeek could be preparing for a big season, as she ran the third fastest 5,000-meter time among underclassmen in the 1A Northwest Conference last season.

e Lynden Christian Lyncs’ 2022 boys cross country roster is: Dylan Bishop, Blake Justice, Andrew Luce, Nickolas Luce, Marcos Rasmussen, Larson Rische, Alexander Smith, Blake VanWeerdhuizen, Aaron Zhu, Levi Zylstra.

e Lynden Christian Lyncs’ 2022 girls cross country roster is: Elizabeth Krieg, Mia Mellema, Lydia TerBeek, Avery VanWeerdhuizen.

The Lyncs are efficient in their talent, possessing some runners who could be highly competitive as they continue to gain more experience.

Even though their team is small, watch out for the Lyncs as they try and best their numbers from 2021 in the early season.

e 2022 Lynden Christian Lyncs’ cross country schedules and rosters can be found at golyncs.com

Meridian

The Scoop:

2021 state meet participants: Gary Rempp, Braxton Ashmore, Conner Tenckley, Ian Forbes, Nolan Jacoby, Willhem Nichols, Ryan Rempp, Kayla Aalpoel.

The Trojans are coming off a season in which they sent eight athletes to 1A state meets.

e Meridian Trojans’ 2022 boys cross country roster is: Gavin Allen, Jack Anderson, Braxton Ashmore, Dane Beishline, Rane DenBleyker, Ben Duersch, River Durben, Ian Forbes, Eli Hays, Nolan Jacoby, Canyon James, Landon James, Payton Katschke, Tristan Margeson, Jackson Miller, Brandon Montgomery, Willem Nichols, Everest Peterson, Kylan Peterson, Gavin Poortinga, Ryan Rempp, Carson Siadal, Logan Smith, Conner Tenkley, Asher Todd, Kellen Todd, Liam Wolven.

e Meridian Trojans’ 2022 girls cross country roster is: Adelle Ashmore, Kerri Barnes, Ava Hansen, Logan Ignacio, Jada Katschke, Natalie Larson, Fran Manookin, Addison Mullin, Sophi Petke, Kamber Schroeder, Emilee Swanson, Rhiannon Zurcher.

Six of them are still around, all on the boys side: Braxton Ashmore, Conner Tenkley, Ian Forbes, Nolan Jacoby, Willhem Nichols and Ryan Rempp.

Ashmore is the highest finisher in 2021 that is returning, as he took 45th at the state meet with a time of 17:58.50.

Watch out for Jada Katschke on the girls side this year, as she held the 46th fastest time in 1A among underclassmen last season. There’s a strong chance she is running at state this season.

Meridian has a strong running culture at the school, and will likely send another handful to championship races again in 2022.

e 2022 Meridian Trojans’ cross country schedules and rosters can be found at meridiantrojans.com

Ferndale

The Scoop:

2021 state meet participants: Katie Manly

The Golden Eagles have a very promising runner in sophomore Katie Manly.

Manly finished 98th out of 193 runners at the 3A girls state meet, posting a time of 20:54.70 as a freshman. Expect an even better finish from her this year, and she will be one to watch out of Ferndale for years to come.

e Ferndale Golden Eagles’ 2022 boys cross country roster is: Samuel Andres, Jaxon Dahlstrom, McKinnon Bailey, Broderick Beier, Devonte Bill-Kinley, Aron Dahlstrom, Stefan Gergen, Spencer Hamilton, Henry Huynh, William James, Kwabena Ledbetter, Jackson Macbeath, Samuel McAllister, Odin Overson, Cody Salhus, Landon Shaw, Grant Stau er, Fenton Vasak, Tamon Wattam, Aiden White, Jaxson Wippert, Kyler Woodrich, Mannie Zamora.

e Ferndale Golden Eagles’ 2022 girls cross country roster is: Kayleigh Hurd, Julia Chao, Mercedes Hinz, Emma Karber, Katie Manly, Ava Martinez, Mariah Moore, Alyssa Stamm, Eliot Varga, Quincey Varga.

e 2022 Ferndale Golden Eagles’ cross country schedules and rosters can be found at ferndalegoldeneagles.com

The entire boys roster has just two seniors on it: Jaxon Dahlstrom and Samuel McAllister. That means there may be some unknown talent coming down the pipeline for the Golden Eagles, especially with seven freshman and eight sophomores.

They have a decent turnout in total kids, and overall more than last season.

Don’t be surprised if some Ferndale names pop up throughout the season you haven’t heard, and expect some strong postseason performances.

Nooksack Valley

The Scoop:

2021 state meet participants: None.

The Pioneers may not have sent anyone to the 1A state meets in 2021, but they had some promising athletes.

For the boys, Daniel Roosma and Kyle Klander were both top 20 among underclassmen in District 1 5,000-meter race times. Both juniors, look for that duo to make some noise in the Northwest Conference and beyond.

e Nooksack Valley Pioneers’ boys cross country roster is: Brady Manske, Chase Hughes, Daniel Donato, Daniel Roosma, Ethan Morris, Isaiah Buckley, Jack Cowman, Kenny Breshears, Kyle Klander, Oscar Chavez-Noriega, Tim Donaldson, Vinnie Colburn.

e Nooksack Valley Pioneers’ 2022 girls cross country roster is: Charlize Miller, Echo Christensen, Lesly CruzAntonio, Megan Perkins, Monica Garcia, Savannah Perkins, Shaylee Boren.

e 2022 Nooksack Valley Pioneers’ cross country schedules and rosters can be found at nooksackpioneers.com

On the girls side, sophomore Echo Christensen was sixth in District 1 among underclassmen 5,000-meter race times with a personal record of 23:40.6. Christensen may be primed for a big year in her second high school season.

While NV may not have many proven athletes, they have plenty of young talent coming up through the cross country program.

Mount Baker

The Scoop:

2021 state meet participants: Finley Bell

The Mountaineers’ lone 2021 state attendee has graduated, but this team still has some potential.

Senior Jorey Johnson likely has the best possibility to go far into the postseason, as he was fifth among District 1 underclassmen in the 5,000-meter race during 2021.

e Mount Baker Mountaineers’ boys cross country roster is: Andrew Compton, Cameron Scott, Colby Kelly, Derrick Toner, Fox Currit, Gus Rikard, Jacob Goodman, Jorey Johnson, Justice Gauf, Palmer Detta, Wyatt Freeman.

e Mount Baker Mountaineers’ 2022 girls cross country roster is: Abbigail Ambuehl, Alexa Gri ths, Elizabeth Farrel, Emma Little, Erica Cook, Megan Little, Tempest Heiner, Trinity Hwang, Zoey Evans.

e 2022 Mount Baker Mountaineers’ cross country schedules and rosters can be found at gobakerathletics.com

On the girls side, watch out for junior Erica Cook, as she was also fifth among District 1 underclassmen in the 5,000-meter race.

Even if they aren’t sending as many athletes to state meets as some other Northwest Conference teams, there’s a strong possibility that Mount Baker athletes make waves within conference and district competition in 2022. Get ready for a fun season.