It was Ballard Night at the Seattle Mariners game last Friday and starting pitcher Phil Brockman unleashed one of his famous fastballs during pre-game festivities.

Brockman, the principal at Ballard High School threw out the first pitch for the second year in a row and is now a seasoned veteran.

During the week, Brockman went out to his personal bullpen in the back of his office, where a door leads to an outer area. He took six to eight practice throws against a brick wall.

"Aw man, I've been slinging it. I did not want anyone to see how bad I was," said Brockman.

He is a member of the school's Class of 1976 and competed in wrestling, cross-country and track. He was on the Zestos Ballard Little League Team that won a championship.

With Mariner's closer Eddie Guardado demoted, the team is looking for a new pitcher to close out games.

"If I make it to home plate, it will be a miracle, so I don't think they're looking for me," said Brockman.

Math teacher Bill Bonney was the catcher. He had a hard time finding his little league glove. When he did, he found the fit a little tight.

"I put my hand in here and can get two fingers in, maybe three," Bonney said.

He was looking forward for his major league debut. "I've heard Brockman has a tough split fingered fastball, so yeah, it will be hard," said Bonney.

When he heard Brockman's practice catcher was a brick wall, Bonney said, "I'm no worse than that."

Ballard Night proceeds benefit the school's music programs. Over 700 tickets were purchased by businesses, organizations, alumni, parents and members of the community.

Music teachers Chris Mabe and Michael James were among the group on the field at Safeco Field. Mabe said there is a need for new instruments, music, lessons and scholarships. The funds raised will also pay for piano, chair and riser repairs.

"It's fun to be on the field. I can't wait to see if Mr. Brockman makes it to home plate," said Mabe.

Mabe is a Jamie Moyer fan. Isabelle Woodward, a senior and head drum major of the marching band likes Ichiro and the retired Dan Wilson.

Janet Rodgers, the director of the Ballard High School Foundation arranged the first pitch opportunity with Moose Clausen, the Director of Suite Sales for the Mariners. Clausen is a former Beaver, Class of 1956.

The Mariner Moose then walked up and posed for a picture with the Ballard group.

"He was very well groomed," Mabe said, referring to Moose's fur.

After the photo session, it was Brockman's turn to pitch.

Last year he threw from the grass in front of the pitching mound to make sure his throw reached home plate.

"I went to the top of the mound this year. I elevated my game," said Brockman.

"He threw it really hard, no not really," Bonney chuckled.