Aug. 14, 2002

BELLINGHAM, Wash. --- Five Western Washington University football players have been recognized in the d2football.com All-West Region preseason teams released today.

Three Vikings were first-team selections - senior defensive end Corey Gunnerson (Everett), senior offensive lineman Joaquin Paratore-McNabb (Davis, CA) and sophomore placekicker Michael Koenen (Ferndale).

Koenen also earned second-team honors as a punter. Joining him on the second team were senior wide receiver Greg Dykstra (Everson/Lynden Christian) and senior Martez Johnson (Seattle/Rainier Beach), who was recognized as both a cornerback and a kick returner.

The Vikings were 8-3 last season, winning a third consecutive league title for the first time in school history by claiming the inaugural Great Northwest Athletic Conference crown with a 3-0 mark.

Western opens its 2002 season Sept. 5, visiting Central Oklahoma.