In 2022, Whatcom County athletes tallied 24 state titles during the spring season alone. Last season they earned 25. Could 26 be on the horizon in 2024? Spring sports mark the return to the outdoors — often with frequent weather-related hiccups in the early season. Snow flurries, torrential downpours and gray, windy days make “spring” sports challenging. But that’s part of the ride.
[ Whatcom County spring athletes have big shoes to fill in 2024 ]
In today’s story, learn about Meridian High School seniors Ian Forbes and Jessica Richardson.
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IAN FORBES
Senior, Baseball, Catcher
After nearly reaching state a season ago, what are your main goals for this season?
Our goals coming into this year is we’re trying to go to the Final Four. It’s been a program expectation every year I’ve been here. Especially having it at Joe Martin again this year. We really want to get the chance to play in front of Whatcom County.
In your mind, what’s the most difficult part of being a top baseball player in the NWC?
I think one of the most difficult parts about playing baseball with a group of guys that competes at such a high level is just not getting down on yourself, you know?
Not every swing is going to go your way, not every pitch is going to end up right where you want it. It’s just about how do you keep your own head up, and how do you work with your team to create a positive environment, positive attitude where guys are picking each other up?
What activities/hobbies do you enjoy outside of athletics?
I’m pretty heavily involved in athletics, and a little bit of student leadership here and there.
JESSICA RICHARDSON
Senior, Girls Track and Field, Javelin/Jumps/Hurdles
What are your main goals this season after not reaching state last season?
I’d say definitely lock in for javelin. It’s pretty much my main priority, event-wise. I’ve been working a lot in the offseason, like weight training. Obviously, we can’t throw javelins because there’s no supervision and stuff.
What do you enjoy most about track and field?
I have a lot of friends on the track team, so it’s really enjoyable for me with the social aspect. I’ve always been a pretty social person, so it’s pretty easy for me to kind of get along with people.
I made captain again this year, as well as last year. I like feeling pushed to my limits, physically.
What do you like to do when you’re not training or competing?
My fall sport was soccer and I really enjoyed doing that. Track is a huge part of my life.
Visit CDN’s prep sports previews page every Tuesday and Friday until April 19 to learn about more Whatcom County athletes.
