The Tyrone varsity track team enters the 2015 season under a new era; well, sort of.

With Head Coach Chris Shedd on a leave of absence this spring, Interim Head Coach Steve Everhart takes over for the 2015 season.

Everhart, no stranger to the Tyrone track program, has been an assistant coach and English teacher at Tyrone for nearly 30 years.

“I’m really excited to head this team going into this season,” said Everhart.

The squad has an impressive turnout, with over 70 total members this season.

Veteran leadership will be provided by returning letter winners Cameron Bakhsheshe, Duane Boone, Scott Goss, Conner Harper, Adam Zook and Erika Voyzey, all of whom were state meet qualifiers last year.

Expectations are especially high for Voyzey, who looks to defend her state title in the high jump.  If all goes well for the talented junior a new state high jump record may be a realistic possibility.

A large influx of freshman boys have brought new found talent to various areas of the team. Sprinters Parker Mitchell, Dylan Thomas and Grayson Putt, along with distance runner Joe Kohler and jumper Jacob Meredith are all competing for spots at the upcoming Igloo Invitational this Saturday at Altoona’s Mansion Park.

“We have a strong pool of young talent,” said Everhart, “I’m excited to preside over their development in upcoming season.”

Sixteen letter winners from last season are returning to this years team, with a large concentration being the jumpers.

“Jumping seems to be our strength this season, but other areas of the team are improving as well,” said Everhart.

As mentioned, the teams first event this year will be this Saturday at the Igloo Invitational, the first of three invitationals this year.

Coupled with six duel meets, the season will culminate with Districts at Mansion Park for all who qualify for their respective events. The state meet awaits all who place in the top three in any event  at districts.

“I think this team has potential to make some waves at districts and throughout the rest of the season. Once again, it’s a great group of kids that I know I’ll love coaching; most of all, we’re all going to have some fun,” said Everhart.