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Northwest Conference Coaches Recognized by Seahawks

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Several Northwest Conference (NWC) football coaches were recently honored as Seattle Seahawks High School Coaches of the Week, a recognition that highlights excellence in leadership, character, and commitment to student-athletes. The honored coaches include Ron Lepper (Mount Baker), Jamie Plenkovich (Ferndale), Dalton Schwetz (Burlington-Edison), and Nick Lucey (Squalicum)—each representing the strong football tradition and values of the NWC.

These coaches are known not only for success on Friday nights, but for their daily work mentoring student-athletes in the classroom, weight room, and community. Through accountability, discipline, and teamwork, they emphasize personal growth alongside athletic development, helping players build habits that extend well beyond the game.

Their recognition reflects the core foundations of athletic competition in the Northwest Conference: sportsmanship, integrity, respect, and competitive excellence. By prioritizing the holistic development of student-athletes, Lepper, Plenkovich, Schwetz, and Lucey exemplify what high school football—and the NWC—stands for.

Character & Leadership Spotlight – Lynden High School

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CHARACTER & LEADERSHIP WITHIN SPORTS

The Northwest Conference loves celebrating our student-athletes in and outside of the classroom. Character Development and Leadership are a top priority in the conference, and we want to provide our communities with a simple and efficient way to see character, leadership and sportsmanship of our student-athletes through the traits that make them up.

The Northwest Conference is asking every school to select two of the 32 character traits to show recognition to two student-athletes within their programs for that trait.  This will be going on throughout the summer and will include the follow words:

PASSION APPRECIATION PREPARATION SELFLESSNESS GRIT ACCOUNTABILITY
SPORTSMANSHIP HUMILITY COMPETITIVENESS HONESTY CARING CONFIDENCE
COMPOSURE TOLERANCE COURAGE POSITIVE ATTITUDE SERVICE ENTHUSIASM
LEADERSHIP DETERMINATION CHARACTER EFFORT COMMITMENT TEAMWORK
DESIRE WORK ETHIC COACHABLE TRUST FOCUS GOOD JUDGEMENT
PERSEVERANCE     INTEGRITY    

Character and Leadership play an important role in the development and success of our schools, and athletics show them in one of the most polarizing ways possible. Today we are recognizing two stellar student-athletes from Lynden High School!

LYNDEN HIGH SCHOOL

Courage

Madelyn Honcoop (Lynden)

This year, Madelyn Honcoop has shown tremendous courage in joining the swim team for the first time as a junior. Stepping into a brand-new sport takes bravery, especially on a team that’s still growing in recognition, but Madelyn didn’t let that hold her back. From the start, she brought determination, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn that quickly set her apart. In just one season, she has become one of our top freestyle sprinters and a valued member of the team. We’re so excited to see where her high school swimming journey takes her next!

 

Positive Attitude

Luke Van Berkum (Lynden)

Luke Van Berkum is the gold standard for positive attitude on Lynden’s Cross Country team. Despite distance running being one of the most painful and mentally taxing sports to compete in, Luke consistently shows up with a smile and a quick-witted joke to lighten the mood. When Luke is around, the mile cut downs become a little easier and what seemed daunting and impossible before suddenly seems a little more possible. His hard work and positive attitude inspire his teammates and we couldn’t be more proud to call him a Lynden Lion. 

Character & Leadership Spotlight – Meridian High School

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CHARACTER & LEADERSHIP WITHIN SPORTS

The Northwest Conference loves celebrating our student-athletes in and outside of the classroom. Character Development and Leadership are a top priority in the conference, and we want to provide our communities with a simple and efficient way to see character, leadership and sportsmanship of our student-athletes through the traits that make them up.

The Northwest Conference is asking every school to select two of the 32 character traits to show recognition to two student-athletes within their programs for that trait.  This will be going on throughout the summer and will include the follow words:

PASSION APPRECIATION PREPARATION SELFLESSNESS GRIT ACCOUNTABILITY
SPORTSMANSHIP HUMILITY COMPETITIVENESS HONESTY CARING CONFIDENCE
COMPOSURE TOLERANCE COURAGE POSITIVE ATTITUDE SERVICE ENTHUSIASM
LEADERSHIP DETERMINATION CHARACTER EFFORT COMMITMENT TEAMWORK
DESIRE WORK ETHIC COACHABLE TRUST FOCUS GOOD JUDGEMENT
PERSEVERANCE     INTEGRITY    

Character and Leadership play an important role in the development and success of our schools, and athletics show them in one of the most polarizing ways possible. Today we are recognizing two stellar student-athletes from Meridian High School!

MERIDIAN HIGH SCHOOL

LEADERSHIP

Logan Ignacio (Meridian)

“Logan exemplifies leadership through her unwavering dedication, kindness, and consistency. As team captain for the past two seasons in both cross country and track & field, she has set the tone with her actions by cheering on her teammates, welcoming new members with open arms, or offering a congratulatory word at the finish line. She is always seeking ways to grow, not only pushing herself but also setting an example for her teammates as they pursue excellence together. Logan leads with purpose, motivates those around her, and plays a key role in building a cohesive team culture rooted in camaraderie, support, and a shared commitment to improvement.”

Mike Holz
MHS Track and Field/Cross Country Coach
 
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DETERMINATION

Carson Sidal (Meridian)

“Carson Siadal has demonstrated exceptional heart and determination throughout his high school wrestling career. Despite facing opponents with significantly more experience, Carson has consistently shown resilience and tenacity on the mat from the very beginning. His unwavering commitment to the sport and his ability to overcome challenges are truly amazing. A wrestler has a chance to win if there’s time on the clock.  Never giving up, working through injury, sickness and exhaustion, Carson just figures out how to win.  One particle match he was down by 14 points and won by 2.  Carson’s dedication and perseverance serve as an inspiration to his teammates and coaches alike. It has been a privilege to witness his growth and achievements, and I am confident that his hard work and passion will continue to drive him towards success in the future.”
James Summer
MHS Boys Wrestling Coach
 
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Golden Eagle Athletics Persons of Distinction

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NORTHWEST CONFERENCE – PERSON OF DISTINCTION AWARD

The Northwest Conference puts high value on celebrating our students, programs and communities throughout the school year.  From “Leaders in Sportsmanship,” to “Coaches vs. Cancer” and “Only 7 Seconds,” The Northwest Conference consistently goes above and beyond with outreach to every school and their corresponding communities.

Each school in the NWC will have the opportunity to highlight someone from their community as a “Person of Distinction.” This honor will celebrate someone associated with each athletic program and draw a spotlight on the amazing selfless people who help make this conference so special!

Ferndale Athletics

Persons of Distinction – Cathy Howard/Katie Kruckeberg/Brandi Tilton

Our three incredible high school secretaries, Cathy Howard, Katie Kruckeberg and Brandi Tilton, are the heart and soul of our Athletic and ASB event operations.
 
With unwavering dedication and infectious positive energy, they lead with a student-first mindset, ensuring every event runs smoothly and every student feels supported and valued. Whether coordinating logistics, managing communications, ticketing or handling last-minute challenges with grace, they are the behind-the-scenes pillars who make it all happen.
 
Their commitment, warmth, and tireless work set the standard for our games, creating a welcoming and spirited environment for our entire school community. To put it bluntly…they run the show!

Scholastic Cup – Sehome Wins 11th Title, All BSD in Top 10!

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Bellingham School District – All three Bellingham Public Schools comprehensive high schools earned top-10 placements in the statewide Scholastic Cup standings among more than 60 schools in the 2A classification. Sehome High School claimed 1st place for the eleventh time, while Bellingham High ranked 5th and Squalicum High finished 9th.

BPS high schools have charted notable statistics in the Scholastic Cup standings. Sehome is now an 11-time Scholastic Cup champion and Squalicum is a one-time champion. There have been 30 combined top-five finishes among the Mariners (14), Bayhawks (11) and Storm (5) in the award’s history. 

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Seahawk Athletics Person of Distinction – Sarah Davies

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NORTHWEST CONFERENCE – PERSON OF DISTINCTION AWARD

The Northwest Conference puts high value on celebrating our students, programs and communities throughout the school year.  From “Leaders in Sportsmanship,” to “Coaches vs. Cancer” and “Only 7 Seconds,” The Northwest Conference consistently goes above and beyond with outreach to every school and their corresponding communities.

Each school in the NWC will have the opportunity to highlight someone from their community as a “Person of Distinction.” This honor will celebrate someone associated with each athletic program and draw a spotlight on the amazing selfless people who help make this conference so special!

Anacortes Athletics

Person of Distinction – Sarah Davies, Seahawks Athletic Booster Association (SABA) President

Sarah Davies, Seahawks Athletic Booster Association (SABA) President

I would like to proudly recognize Sarah Davies for her unwavering commitment, extraordinary leadership, and tireless dedication to the student-athletes of Anacortes High School. Under her guidance, SABA has continued to thrive and expand its’ impact, ensuring that every athlete has the opportunity to succeed – on and off the field.

Just a few of the incredible initiatives supported and enhanced during Sarah’s presidency include:

  • Support for 22 high school sports teams and over 500 student-athletes each school year
  • Awarding 6 senior scholarships annually
  • Organizing Sports Physical Night, offering physicals to athletes at minimal to no cost
  • Reviving and expanding concessions operations, including baseball and softball—providing clubs with income and student volunteers with community service hours
  • Launching the Athlete In-Need Scholarship program, in collaboration with Kiwanis
  • Hosting spirited Sports Kick-Off events
  • Coordinating a Rooter Bus to the State Football Game
  • Spearheading the bleacher initiative, allowing AHS to host playoff games

Sarah’s leadership is powered by a deep commitment to our students. She has consistently put their needs first-joining the superintendent’s budget committee to advocate for the preservation of athletic programs during times of financial uncertainty, and attending at least one event for every athletic team to personally support and encourage our athletes.

She also champions and organizes an incredible volunteer force:

  • 100+ concession shifts per season, largely staffed by students earning volunteer hours
  • 20+ volunteers for Sports Physical Night
  • 10–15 volunteers for each Sports Kick-Off

With over $50,000 raised across multiple programs, Sarah’s impact is not only felt in spirit but seen in tangible support for athletes, coaches, and the broader school community.

Sarah Davies is, without question, in it for the kids. Her selfless work ensures that Anacortes student-athletes not only participate, but thrive.

 

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Ferndale Athletics – Larrabee Named Big 10 Freshman of the Year!

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FERNDALE, WASHINGTON

Ferndale Athletics is proud to announce that former Golden Eagle standout Larrabee was honored as the Big Ten Freshman of the Year following an impressive debut season with the Bruins. The Ferndale, Wash., native recorded five top-25 finishes during the 2024–25 campaign and played a key role in helping UCLA capture the Big Ten Championship in their inaugural season in the conference. Larrabee opened the championship with a strong first-round 69 (-1) and contributed counting scores in 22 of 27 rounds throughout the year. He finished the season with a 71.0 scoring average and recorded six rounds in the 60s, underscoring his consistency and impact as a freshman.

While attending Ferndale High School in 2023, he won the Washington 3A state individual title after shooting a 142 (71-71) and besting the next closest golfer by three strokes … was the only competitor to finish under par at the state championship … his title came after he finished fourth at the same event, one year prior … finished in the top five of the 3A boys championship in each of three years playing in that event for Ferndale High School. 

2024-2025 ACCOLADES:

Big 10 – Freshmen of the Year

Big 10 – 2nd Team

Bayhawk Athletics Person of Distinction – Darcy Long

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The Northwest Conference puts high value on celebrating our students, programs and communities throughout the school year.  From “Leaders in Sportsmanship,” to “Coaches vs. Cancer” and “Only 7 Seconds,” The Northwest Conference consistently goes above and beyond with outreach to every school and their corresponding communities.

Each school in the NWC will have the opportunity to highlight someone from their community as a “Person of Distinction.” This honor will celebrate someone associated with each athletic program and draw a spotlight on the amazing selfless people who help make this conference so special!

BELLINGHAM ATHLETICS

Person of Distinction – Darcy Long

We’d like to spotlight Darcy Long volleyball and basketball scorebook genius.  (Center, with Daughters Taylor and Erilyn Brooks). 

“Darcy is a great asset to our event management providing professionalism and competence. She knows and cares for our student athletes and is willing to go above and beyond to provide support at our home and often, away events. Darcy is an important piece of our team, we would not be the same without her.”

Brad McKay, Head Basketball Coach

“Darcy is the most dedicated, hardworking, knowledgeable person on our game-day crew.  Her expertise and attention to detail are unparalleled.  People who attend our events have no idea just how focused and engaged a person has to be to succeed at this task.  Darcy handles the demands of the role with ease.  In fact, she often assists and trains other people sitting next to her while doing her job!  Bellingham High is grateful for Darcy Long”

Chad Larsen, Athletics and Activities Coordinator

Darcy is a person who understands the plight of coaches. I have thrown my energy around at a few different places and I know that the work Darcy does in the gym is Legendary! She calms the air, loves her team, and informs clearly the status of things during the game! I can always trust when I hand her my book, that part of game prep is taken care of! Proud and honored to be in Darcy’s circle!!  Congrats to her! 
 
-Mark Wright

Character & Leadership Spotlight – Anacortes High School

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CHARACTER & LEADERSHIP WITHIN SPORTS

The Northwest Conference loves celebrating our student-athletes in and outside of the classroom. Character Development and Leadership are a top priority in the conference, and we want to provide our communities with a simple and efficient way to see character, leadership and sportsmanship of our student-athletes through the traits that make them up.

The Northwest Conference is asking every school to select two of the 32 character traits to show recognition to two student-athletes within their programs for that trait.  This will be going on throughout the summer and will include the follow words:

PASSION APPRECIATION PREPARATION SELFLESSNESS GRIT ACCOUNTABILITY
SPORTSMANSHIP HUMILITY COMPETITIVENESS HONESTY CARING CONFIDENCE
COMPOSURE TOLERANCE COURAGE POSITIVE ATTITUDE SERVICE ENTHUSIASM
LEADERSHIP DETERMINATION CHARACTER EFFORT COMMITMENT TEAMWORK
DESIRE WORK ETHIC COACHABLE TRUST FOCUS GOOD JUDGEMENT
PERSEVERANCE     INTEGRITY    

Character and Leadership play an important role in the development and success of our schools, and athletics show them in one of the most polarizing ways possible. Today we are recognizing two stellar student-athletes from Sehome High School!

ANACORTES HIGH SCHOOL

Passion – Jenna Baker

Jenna exhibits passion for competition and plays softball with so much positive energy and joy that it is infectious to everyone on our team.  Her motivation for performance is defined by her personal improvement and team improvements. She is our team captain, a leader on and off the field and always the first person to celebrate the accomplishments of others or pick up a teammate that needs a boost.  She is an amazing softball player but an even better human being and she makes everyone around her better.

 

Appreciation – Jayden Greenfield

Jayden “Greenie” Greenfield, the senior student manager for our baseball team, exemplifies the word appreciation. Jayden grew up playing baseball in Alaska and moved to Anacortes during high school.  He loves the game but could no longer play.  He asked us at the start of the season if we needed a manager and we had no idea what a blessing he would be to our program. His positive energy and infectious attitude raise the level for everyone. On top of that, he really understands baseball which has proven to be invaluable to the players and staff this season.

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Sehome’s Cushman Into Hall of Fame!

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Today, we celebrate a true leader who has made an indelible mark on our school and community. For 36 years Colin Cushman has led with his heart, demonstrating humility and selflessness in every endeavor. His unwavering dedication to our athletes and programs has inspired countless students to strive for excellence both on and off the field.

Collin has been a constant source of support and encouragement. His ability to see the potential in every student and foster a spirit of teamwork and perseverance is truly remarkable.

Thank you, Colin for setting the example for our athletic department. Your legacy of compassion, integrity, and leadership will continue to inspire future generations. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor. 

James Hayes|Bellingham Public Schools, Director of Athletics and Activities

Nooksack Valley – Whichers Inducted into Hall of Fame!

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February 11, 2025 – The Valley honored head Girls Basketball coach Shane Wichers. He will be inducted into the Washington State Coaches Association Girls Basketball Hall of Fame this April. Here is the presentation speech by longtime Assistant Coach and former player for Coach Wichers, Erika Van Dyken. When you see coach Wichs, a huge pat on the back, high five or a quality fist bump!  Congrats Coach Wichers!

“Tonight, I have the incredible privilege of sharing some exciting news about someone who has had a lasting impact on our school, our community, and so many lives. It is with great pride that we announce that Coach Shane Wichers has been selected for induction into the Washington State Girls Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame!

This honor is a testament to what so many of us already know—Coach Wichers is more than just a coach. He is a mentor, a role model, and a leader who has dedicated himself to shaping not just great basketball players, but great people. His passion for the game is undeniable, but what truly sets him apart is the way he cares for his players, his teams, and this community.

For 29 seasons, Coach Wichers has led with dedication, passion, and an unwavering belief in his players. His record speaks for itself: he has coached 722 games, 457 of them have been wins, three league titles, four district titles, and two state championships. His success has not gone unnoticed, earning him the title of League Coach of the Year twice, 1A State Coach of the Year in 2021-22, and most recently, the Girls Basketball State Coach of the Year across all classifications in 2023-24.

But beyond the numbers and accolades, Coach Wichers has built something even more meaningful—a legacy. He has inspired, challenged, and believed in those around him, leaving a mark that goes far beyond wins and losses. His energy, his dedication, and his love for the game have made an impact that will be felt for generations to come.

The official celebration will come later, but tonight, we want to take a moment to recognize this incredible achievement and express our gratitude for all that Coach Wichers has done. Shane, we are so proud of you, and we can’t wait to celebrate this well-deserved honor in the near future.

Let’s all give a huge round of applause for Coach Shane Wichers—Hall of Famer!”

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Mariner Athletics Person of Distinction – Maggie Hite

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NORTHWEST CONFERENCE – PERSON OF DISTINCTION AWARD

The Northwest Conference puts high value on celebrating our students, programs and communities throughout the school year.  From “Leaders in Sportsmanship,” to “Coaches vs. Cancer” and “Only 7 Seconds,” The Northwest Conference consistently goes above and beyond with outreach to every school and their corresponding communities.

Each school in the NWC will have the opportunity to highlight someone from their community as a “Person of Distinction.” This honor will celebrate someone associated with each athletic program and draw a spotlight on the amazing selfless people who help make this conference so special!

Sehome Athletics

Person of Distinction – Maggie Hite

Sehome’s Athletic Department 2024-25 Person of Distinction is our Licensed Athletic Trainer, Maggie Hite.  Maggie is kind, relentlessly hard working,  passionate and always has a positive mind set.  She embodies Sehome’s Core Covenants of Integrity, Respect, Inclusion and Perseverance. She is loved by our students, teachers, coaches and administrators.  Nobody I know represents the Sehome community better than Maggie Hite.  She is a true Mariner.

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