It may not be spring yet, but the starting gun has already sounded for the upcoming 2006 track season, when training started Monday, Feb. 13. This year seems promising, with a balanced mix of grizzled veterans returning and fresh faces emerging. Many of the varsity letter winners will be returning. Old faces such as hurdler Scott Lynn will be mixed with newer ones, such as returning thrower Ben Cotton. On the girls’ team, seasoned runner Kersten Thorgaard will back on the track. These people should watch out, as head boys Coach John Sletton says, “Varsity position are always available to those who can earn them.” Athletes aren’t the only thing changing this season and the upcoming seasons. Coaches are changing, too. For head Coach John Sletton – who recently resigned from the head coach position of boys cross country – this is the last of two seasons. Former Throwing Coach Tim Mooney will be moving to the girl’s team as a sprinting coach. He is to be replaced as boys Throwing Coach by freshman football coach and former teacher Pat Lawler. Biology teacher Kirk Schmaltz will continue on as the girls’ head coach. The first meet for boys’ and girls’ track will be March 11 at Iowa City. The girls’ first Varsity and Junior Varsity home meet will be April 11, while the boys’ traditional Hi-Covey Relay is scheduled for April 15. As things stand, Ames High will be a major competitor this coming season; with many returning faces, this season is one for with high expectations. It may not be spring yet, but it’s track season.