Wrangell senior Jackson Carney enters the new wrestling season with a target on his back — and a state championship to defend.

The clock ticks toward 6:30 p.m. and one athlete after another files into the high school gym. Laces tighten. Shoulders loosen. The chatter fades as the young women drop into stretches and partner passing. It’s volleyball season, and this year could be a big one.

There’s something in the water. Wrangell swimmers are regularly posting personal records from one competition to the next.

The Wrangell High School cross-country team worked together alongside their coaches to stain the boardwalk at Petroglyph Beach Tuesday and Wednesday, Sept. 2-3.

Jackson Powers crosses the finish line in Saturday's race.

Evergreen Elementary welcomes the students early Thursday morning.