Girls on the go

Second-place finishes at both the region and state meets would normally indicate a successful season for any high school track and field team.

But after losing out to Mountain View and Davis at the region and state levels, respectively, last year, Spanish Fork's girls are aiming higher this season.

"Our girls team, with the returners we have from the second-place team last year, we're expecting to be right there in the middle of the excitement," said Dons co-head coach Bart Thompson. "We're cautiously optimistic about being in the top two or three at state."

The Dons bring back an all-star cast, headlined by Natalie and Nachelle Stewart — the all-everything juniors who have dominated Utah sprints for the past two years. And though Spanish Fork picked up a good amount of support points last year, this season the supporting cast looks to be stronger than ever with the ability to score in nearly every event.

"You have to have good balance," head coach Dave Boyack said. "There have been times in the past where four or five girls can win a state track meet by themselves, but generally balance from top to bottom will do it for you."

A key component for the Dons' title hopes will be the distance squad, which picked up its second consecutive cross-country region championship a few months back. The distance crew is talented and deep, led by Chelsea Loss and Kirsten Sly. Nachelle Stewart will also help out the cause, as she has moved up to the 800-meter run and already has some of the state's top times. Spanish Fork also notched the nation's second-fastest time in the medley relay last month at the Simplot Games.

Here's a look at the rest of the valley:

Region 4

SPANISH FORK DONS

Head coaches: Bart Thompson, Dave Boyack

2006 finish: second in region, second at state

Athletes/events to watch: Nachelle Stewart (sprints), Natalie Stewart (sprints), Mallory Denning (high jump), Chelsea Loss (distance), Kirsten Sly (distance), Becca Rowly (shot put), Amanda Morse (sprints), Leah Walters (hurdles)

Outlook: Morse complements the Stewart sisters in the sprints, and a deep distance squad has the talent to turn some heads. Rowly and Denning patrol the field events, with Walters turning in great marks in the hurdles.

MOUNTAIN VIEW BRUINS

Head coach: Mike Hunter

2006 finish: first in region, third at state