The Bonney Lake High Panthers sport a mixture of experienced gymnasts and newcomers as they head into the 2010-11 campaign.

Kathleen Tuttle, the only coach the Panthers have had in their six seasons of existence, said this year’s group “is one of the stronger teams we’ve had in a while in terms of numbers.” With 18 on the active roster, she also has the type of depth that brings success, with plenty who will be competing in all-around competition.

This year’s squad is buoyed by a trio of state meet veterans – seniors Kelsy Wells-Henderson and Sarah Skinner, plus junior Amanda Hawkins. They are joined at the top of the roster by sophomores Leslie Sumpter and Kaisee Spencer, the latter making a comeback after an injury-marred freshman season.

“We have a lot of good incoming girls,” Tuttle said, singling out junior Allison Weaver and freshmen Mallory Zimbelman and Jessica Mitchell.

Because last week’s winter weather washed out regularly-scheduled practice sessions, the Panthers will not compete tonight, Wednesday, as scheduled. The next meet will be Dec. 8 at Emerald Ridge High.

The Panthers, again this year, will practice and travel with the Sumner High Spartans.