Some Beavers qualify for state

By Dean Wong

During last weekend's 2008 Boy's 4A Seaking District 2 meet, the Ballard Beavers were in the thick of the action with 12 swimmers entered.

Although the team lost boys to graduation and was hit hard by illnesses this season, they have come on strong in recent weeks.

"It's a great group of kids, they are very coach able," said first-year head coach Thor Tyson.

As the team has regained its health, times have dropped, sending many swimmers to districts.

"They are excited and ready to go, " said Tyson. Eight of the swimmers representing Ballard are seniors and they were ready for the big race with state qualifications on the line.

Senior Perry Sharify has already qualified for state in the 200 IM and 100 breast. Sharify has had an outstanding year, winning every race in both events.

"It's tough to be undefeated in this league with Garfield, Roosevelt and Inglemoor," said Tyson.

A year ago, Sharify finished second in the 200 IM at state, and last year's winner Chris Winchell of Bothell High has graduated.

"KingCo is not as fast as in recent years. I'm happy with what I accomplished. I'm looking to win state in the 200 IM, " said Sharify. He said last year's race at state was the best in his life.

"He is technically very proficient. I would not want to swim against him. He has spent many years on his stroke," said assistant coach Leo Jaeger.

Sharify has been swimming since the age of 6. He is on the Cascade Swimming Club team when he is not at the Ballard Pool. He does what he can to pass on his knowledge of the sport to teammates.

Sharify has helped develop the other swimmers. "He comes in and works with the younger kids on their starts and turns," said Tyson.

The two relay teams have a shot at state if they do well at districts.

The 200 medley team is: Ian Absher, back; Sharfiy, breast; Josh Jaeger, butterfly; and Dylan Walker, free.

In the 400 free relay, the swimmers are: Walker; Reese Futrell; Jaeger; and Sharify.

Griffin Bond is have a strong season and is swimming well. Freshman Alex Larsen will swim the 50 free and 100 fly at districts. He has a twin brother David, who is not going to districts but is on the team.

Jaeger's event is the100 fly and relays. "He is a solid swimmer across the board," said Leo Jaeger, regarding his son.

In diving, Price Hardman has a shot at improving his score enough to go to state.

The other district qualifiers are: Coburn Erskine; Mike Gordon; Corey Metzner; and Sam Hall.

"Everyone has chipped off a little time in their events," said Tyson.

The state meet is this weekend, Feb. 15 and 16, at the King County Aquatic Center in Federal Way.