“The Young and the Restless” could be replaced by “The Young and the Talented.”

Ironton track coach Greg Cronacher knows he has a young team, but he has a guarded optimism heading into the new season.

“We could be pretty decent. We have some young talent and some kids who came out who haven’t been out,” Cronacher said. ‘We’re pretty young and lack experience, but we have a lot of potential.”

Ironton returns two state meet place finishers. Marc Carter was second last spring in the 800 meter run and John Pemberton was fifth in the shot put.

“Carter gives us a great middle distance guy in the 800 and John Paul is strong in the shot put and discus,” Cronacher said.

Cronacher expects the field events have potential with Lukas Morris, Dustin Green and Jon Monnig.

“The pole vault, high jump, shot put, long jump and discus are looking good,” said Cronacher.

“Our jumpers should be strong. We don’t have a lot of depth, but we should have some guys who can compete. Our sprinters are all young guys.”

Sprinters and distance runners like Josh Ross,

Tym Vandermosten, Major Brice, Lamar Dufore, Bubby Johnson and Justin Payne should produce some points.

Ironton will host its 53rd annual invitational meet Saturday with a 10-team field that includes Chesapeake, South Point, Rock Hill, Fairland, Watkins Memorial, South Webster, Portsmouth Notre Dame, Jackson, Wheelersburg and host Ironton.

“Wheelersburg and Watkins will probably finish one-two, but I think South Point will come in there. They’re kind of the dark horse,” Cronacher said.

The meet begins at 11 a.m.