Fast Zoom for Nikon D60

[Buckeye Bob]

I am looking for a fast zoom lens for my d60 in the 70-200 f2.8 range. I would like to spend $1,000 or less. I am somewhat of a newby and am confused as to which lenses will work on my camera and still operate as AF. I am looking to use to shoot indoor sports of my son's basketball and my daughter cheerleading. Please help and offer up any suggestions for good lenses that will work for me both Nikon or other brands.

Thanks,

Buckeye Bob

[dcclark]

While I can't make recommendations, I can help with the "which ones will autofocus?" question. Incidentally -- if you're looking at sports/cheerleading photography, then yes you definitely want autofocus. Manual focusing for sports or fast action is really not a viable option, unless you're extremely experienced (and even then, it's still a pain!)

If you're looking at Nikon-made lenses, any lenses labeled "AF-S" (NOT just "AF") will autofocus. Sometimes these are also called "SWM" (Silent Wave Motor), but "AF-S" will always be listed too.

If you're looking at Sigma-made lenses, look for "HSM" (HyperSonic Motor)

If you're looking at Tamron-made lenses, look for "BIM" (Built-In Motor)

Those are some of the most common. If I've forgotten any, I'm sure others will chip in too.