BELLINGHAM, Wash. – Western Washington University head track & field and cross country coach Pee Wee Halsell has announced the first wave of incoming student-athletes as 18 women have signed on to compete for the Vikings starting in the 2018-19 seasons.

The incoming class features 15 student-athletes that will be coming directly from the high school ranks and three transfers. The diverse class covers all the track & field specialties, with one javelin thrower, one shot put/discus/hammer thrower, three pole vaulters, four jumpers, six distance runners and three sprinters.

“This may be one of the best women’s recruiting classes on paper we have had at WWU,” said head coach Pee Wee Halsell, who will enter his 32nd season coaching the Vikings in 2018-19. “This is another diverse group covering all events. Our goal was to go for quality this year, and I think we accomplished this, to go along with a good group of good developmental athletes. We are hoping this group of student-athletes will help the Vikings gain the GNAC championship that has eluded the ladies.”

The class is comprised of incoming student-athletes from five different states – Washington, Minnesota, Michigan, Massachusetts, Montana – including 14 from the state of Washington.