Coach Jay Paulson, entering his fifth year at Bonney Lake, graduated a lot of seniors from last year’s boys swim and dive team.

But he has another host of seniors to lead the 2009-10 squad.

“We’re going to graduate more seniors from the team this year than last,” Paulson said. “But we have a lot of underclassmen.”

Paulson has 28 athletes turning out this season.

The distance swimmers could be the Panthers’ strong suit this season.

Cody Stiers returns. He went to districts a year ago in the 200-yard and 500-yard freestyle.

Paulson has Andrew Allen returning, along with Nathan Karboski.

“I think we’ll have some guys performing well in the sprints this season,” he said. “I’m hoping they have a good year.”

On the diving board, Paulson has all newcomers.

Two of his drivers, who went to districts didn’t return this season, and Paulson will look at senior Tim Eckhardt and freshman Eric Smith to reach district.

“Tim has really looked good in practice and I’m expecting him to qualify for district,” Paulson said. “And Eric should be able to qualify, also.”

Enumclaw and Auburn Mountainview are Paulson’s picks to contend for the South Puget Sound League 3A crown. He expects his squad to finish in the middle of the standings.

The Panthers kick off the season by hosting Capital Thursday at Sumner High.