So I have had ticking sounds from under the valve cover, or somewhere in that area. I have a 2000 with the sport package and I was wondering if they have mechanical lifters that could be out of adjustment?

 

hydraulic lifters you might have restricted flow yo the head I'd try an oil flush first

 

I would try the oil flush as well. Depending on how many miles it might take couple trys and 1000 miles of cleaning. I have the same problem and it kind of comes and goes now. I used Lucas treatment for 500 miles, then mystery oil for another 500. It helped but not a cure but i have 140K on mine. I found out that running a heavier oil after everything is cleaned out works the best.