MARYSVILLE – This spring has been so wet that high school sports teams are taking any chance they can to go outside.

Schools came from Snohomish to Oak Harbor and beyond to compete in the Marysville-Pilchuck jamboree Saturday.

But they only got a few innings in before the tournament was canceled.

Marysville-Getchell coach Mike Moran was happy his team got to play on a dirt field for just the second time this spring.

“We’ve been practicing on the turf” at the MG football field because of the mud on the softball field, Moran said. “And we’ve had some good workouts in the gym.”

Moran was talking figuratively, but with all the rain it could have been literally when he said, “Everyone’s in the same boat.”

The Chargers only won a few games last year, but with eight returning lettermen Moran, and his team, are much more optimistic going into this season.

“We’re better all-around this year,” he said. “We’re a year older, and with that comes confidence.”

The girls who are sticking with the program also are getting more serious about the sport.

“A lot are playing travel ball now, and that helps,” Moran said.

The top hitter returning to his squad is third baseman Hannah Kranz, who bats third in the lineup. Avery Holscher, the leadoff hitter, plays leftfield. Katie King, a pitcher-centerfielder, is another key returner, Moran said.

Two freshmen also are expected to play varsity.

He’s proud the team isn’t afraid to play in the mud.

“They primp and take pride in themselves in getting ready to go to a restaurant,” he said. “But this is softball pride. They are excited to do something – play.”