The numbers are a little lower this year, but Coupeville High School will be fielding a track team that is loaded with talent.

Led by sophomores Tyler King and Kira Ilyankoff, who both placed at last year’s Class 1A state track meet, the Wolves are primed and ready for another successful season.

King finished sixth at the state in the 3,200-meter run last year and finished eighth in the 1,600. He was also a member of the mile relay team that finished fourth.

“Tyler has the potential to be state champion in the mile and two mile this year,” coach Eric Lindberg said.

Ilyankoff made big improvements all year long, peaked at the right time, and finished second in last year’s javelin throw at the state meet.

Joining the sophomore duo is Rachel Weinstein, who had to sit out much of last year with shin splints.

“Rachel is also a sophomore and we are hoping she stays healthy this year,” Lindberg said. “We are planning on using her in the 800 meters and the relay.”

Also returning are seniors Curtis Habeck, who competes in the throwing events and sprinter D.J. Kim, along with junior Toby Platt, who also competes in the throwing events.

New members on the team are senior Matt Petrich, who transfered from South Whidbey and senior foreign exchange student Linde Maertens.

“Matt is one of the best sprinters I have ever coached and Linde is a very good athlete that we are going to find a spot for,” Lindberg said.

The Wolf Pack is loaded with several outstanding first-year freshmen who competed as eighth-graders last year.

“We have a number of young kids out for the team and several of them have a lot of talent,” Lindberg said. “The future of track at Coupeville is looking good.”

Coupeville opens the season Thursday, March 19, at the jamboree along with South Whidbey and Oak Harbor.