Defending its region title is going to be tough for South Aiken High School's girls' track-and-field team.
"They are so young. I know I've been saying that year after year, but they are going to have their work cut out for them," said Russ Busbee, head coach of the boys' and girls' track teams. "I lost two of my best sprinters to graduation."
The girls have won the Region AAAA title each year since 2001, and the boys have won five titles since 2001.
The girls' team has strength in pole vaulter Allie Nicosia, a senior who won the state title last year. Also, Busbee's middle-distance runners, including senior Tracey Jones, are strong.
Between the boys' and girls' teams, 140 students are participating in the sport this year, and Busbee heads a staff of 10 volunteer coaches.
"I'm looking for some good things in throwing and high jump," he said.
Jamal Davis, who has signed to play football at Savannah State University, is a force in the high jump. Last year, he finished third at the state championship meet.
"He has a good chance of winning it this year," said Busbee.
The boys' team also has a strong pole vaulter in Trey Blanton, a senior who has competed at the national level in Amateur Athletic Union track-and-field events.
Several South Carolina colleges have expressed interest in him.
The boys' distance runners should fare well, said Busbee.
Many of them also run cross country. In the fall, the Thoroughbreds won the region title in cross country and were in the top five at the state meet.
Busbee sees Irmo High School as one of South Aiken's toughest rivals this season. He also expects Aiken High to be competitive, he said.
South Aiken's first meet of the season will March 4 on its home track.
Reach Charmain Brackett at czbrackett@hotmail.com.
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