1:39 p.m.

Pretty soon I’m going to drive to Mill Creek to watch Jackson High’s first practice. I’m excited to see how the Timberwolves look. They have a bunch of experienced standouts, including RB/LB Riley Carr and QB Andy Gay.

But before I jump back in my car, here are some notes from my interview earlier this morning with Mariner coach John Ondriezek.

Thoughts on how the first practice went

“I’m encouraged. Our kids did come back in excellent condition and their attitude is just outstanding. There’s a lot of team spirit.”

Going for fourth straight playoff appearance

“There’s not a football player on this field that hasn’t been involved in a playoff team. We’ve made the playoffs the last three years and we just want to continue with that.”

“Our goal obviously is not (merely) to make the playoffs but to continue into the playoffs and get to the Tacoma Dome — the goal of every high school in the state of Washington. We just have to be sure that we continue to prepare ourselves to give us that opportunity.”

Is today’s turnout what you expected?

“We had a few kids move away over the summer but none of our starters — kids that might have been backups for us. … Other than that, everybody’s here. But we’ve got one (a punter) who didn’t turn in his physical.”

Comments on Mariner’s new starting QB Josh Thompson

“He’s going to do a good job for us. He’s paid his dues. We had A.J. (VanWieringen) as our quarterback last year and (now Thompson) needs to step up and be that senior leader and take charge.”