Players with Ballard Junior Football are eager to start practicing next month, but organizers are busy raising funds to pay for the costs of running the for the non-profit program.

"We're looking for support for our program, " said Lisa Schwartzenberger, Ballard Junior Football's fundraising chair.

Money is needed to pay for uniforms, scholarships, equipment and field maintenance.

The program averages 150 children, ages 6 to 14 each season. Both boys and girls play football and also

there is a cheerleading program.

Six teams participate in the program, all calling themselves Ballard Knights. The teams are the Juniors, Bantams, Pee Wees, Midgets and two 89s teams.

The Bantams, Midgets, Pee Wees and one of the 89s teams made the city playoffs last year. Only the Pee Wees won a championship.

Schwartzenberger says the kids learn life lessons by playing football. "They learn to set goals and learn what it takes to win," said Schwartzenberger. Players develop the commitment and dedication team sports require.

Practices begin in August.

"It's great to see these kids out there wanting to do it. They can't wait until August comes. They love getting out there and seeing their friends," said Schwartzenberger.

The 2007 season was controversial, with neighbors living around Loyal Heights field complaining about parking issues on game days.

"They are doing what some of us have forgotten to do, just have fun," said Schwartzenberger. "Instead of tearing this wonderful community apart over 12 weeks of fun, come out watch a game and remember that to these kids Loyal Heights is just a safe place to have run and play."

Various sponsorship levels are available. They range from $600 for a corporate full-page program advertisement to a personal $50 honorable mention.

Visit http://www.ballardknights.org. E-mail dolitajo@msn.com or ken_gardner@countrywide.com.