In track and field, the Ballard Beavers are working towards another appearance at the state meet again despite the loss of some key athletes to graduation.

Last year's team finished second to Gig Harbor by just four points at state. The year before, Ballard was third, establishing a winning tradition that the team hopes to continue. Ballard will also be defending their SeaKing District title.

"We have good kids who want to run and do well. They are excited, enthusiastic and willing," said Head Coach Bruce Drager.

Ballard lost Dan Tyson, Chris Stephens, Jordan Gardner, Andre Faulkner, Kevin Hickenbottom, Mary Moriarty and others to graduation.

These now departed seniors helped set 11 school records.

While this year's team is not as talented, Drager says it will be up to the coaches to get the best out of the 125 student athletes.

"We have lots of people who can score lots of points in events. From the first to last events, we will be competitive," said Drager.

The Beavers have plenty of talent in reserve with distance runner Zack Gussin, thrower Kellen Jones, Kailey Campbell (fourth at state in the mile), Cole Manahan in the 400 and Ally Erickson-Wayman in the two mile.

Felicia Tyson will run the 400 for Ballard. She has already recorded a pre-season time that is the second fastest in state this year. Drager expects the 4 x 400 team to also make it to state.

"Everyone is here to work and they come to practice everyday. We have good runners and this is the best attitude I've seen," said Distance Coach Bob Mirenzi.

Ballard won the district championship over quality teams from Inglemoor, Woodinville and Skyline. They will face the same challenge again from the strong eastside programs.

The team's success in 2005 did not go unrecognized. Head Coach Bruce Drager was named Coach of the Year by the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.

"We have tons and tons of talent. We have lots of people who can score lots of points in events. It will be interesting to watch the progress of this team," said Drager.

The first meet is on Thursday, March 23 at Woodinville. The start time is 3:45 p.m.