Tyrone Area Varsity Track and Field Teams hits the ground running in their season opener tonight at home against Clearfield.

The boys team is looking to defend their Mountain League Championship and should be strong again, led by returning sprinters Parker Mitchell and Jake Meredith.

On the distance side Senior Adam Zook and Joe Kohler look to dominate events past 800 meters.

“It’s the good nervous before the meet, but I plan to channel that into my events today,” said Zook.

Head Coach Chris Shedd is looking forward to a successful season.

“Our strengths are the sprints and the jumps for both teams,” said Shedd, “Our season goals are to rebuild the girls team and continue excellence on the boys team.”

The field events are stacked with returning senior Jeffrey McNelis, Nick Bonsell, John Chronister putting muscle into the throws.

With the horizontals, long jump and triple jump, Mitchell, Meredith, Cullen Raftery, and outstanding beginner Michael Lewis look for victory.

Returning senior stars on the women’s track team include Emily Beam running middle distance, Carly Crofcheck looking to excel in javelin, and back to back state champion Erika Voyzey leading the way in high jump.

“I’m looking to improve my throws and make my way to the top of the podium,” said Crofcheck.

Compared to last year, the women’s team has grown in numbers, doubling its size and power.

“We have a few holes in the girls distance and some of the jumping events, but at the same time we have strong athletes in those areas,” said Shedd.

Altogether, the team looks strong and conditioned. It will definitely be a competitive meet and hopefully a much more successful year for the Lady Eagles.

Tyrone’s next meet is the Igloo Invitational at Mansion Park in Altoona beginning at 10 am on Saturday.