Wildcat girls are an experienced bunch

Instead of having just one or two good runners as in past seasons, the Oak Harbor High School girls cross country team has five strong runners, all with varsity experience, returning in 2008.

This fact alone makes coaches Eric Peterson and Andy Wesley very happy.

“The girls team is going to be really strong,” Peterson said. “We have quite a few returners plus some new freshmen that have come in that should do all right.”

Leading the girls team are seniors Kathryn Fisken and Kaylee Meders, junior Jessica Denmon, and sophomores Abby Leete and Adrianna Royal.

Peterson said he has a younger boys team than in previous years.

“The guys are a younger bunch, but the definitely made up for it by the mileage they did this summer,” he said. “This has really prepared them for the season.”

Heading the boys team is sophomore Tyler King, who is a student at Coupeville High School but runs on the combined cross country team. Last season King went to the Class 4A state championship meet in Pasco, which has made him familiar with what state competition is all about.

Joining King are juniors Michael Reith and Nate Miller.

New members on the boys squad are senior Josh Duhrkoph, junior Matt Bolte, sophomore Cody Klauer and freshman Matt Reith.

“The kids are always good and we are looking forward to a fun season,” Peterson said.

Oak Harbor hosts Everett and Stanwood in their only home meet of the season Thursday, Sept. 18. The meet steps off at 3:45 p.m. at the Wirth Farm.