Southeastern Community College President Dr. Michael Ash doesn’t want to be remembered for adding new buildings to the campus. However, he has been instrumental in securing many of them during his 13 years with the school.

Instead, “I want us to be able to see the work I’ve done,” Ash said,

“The guidance I’ve given our staff as a way to improve our college to make it relevant to our community, to make it relevant to our students.”

Going into the 2025-26 school year, SCC leads the state’s junior colleges in retention, and it leads in percentage of enrollment growth. Based on test scores, Ash said, “Our nursing program is No. 1 in the state.”

The Hall of Sciences has state-of-the-art equipment, and SCC is getting a new CDL program.

Ash oversaw the construction of a better dormitory for athletes and has added numerous sports teams to the program – including cross country and track, men’s and women’s wrestling, trap shooting, and golf – to attract more students.

“There are more than 300 athletes on campus,” he said.

Early in his education career, however, he was taking on far less than he is now, yet the stress was so much that he had to have triple-bypass surgery at 45.

Ash graduated from Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Okla., and worked in the school’s student affairs area.

He earned his Master’s Degree and served as the dean of men for four years.

But he switched gears and started a business for remodeling and construction. “I really enjoy doing something with my hands,” Ash said.

Twenty years later, he came back to education. He served as Director of Counseling at Regent University, a graduate school in Virginia Beach, Va.&nbsp;

He then became the Director of Human Services and began his doctoral program in higher education.

“Between the job, the environment, the high-paced graduate education, and then working on the doctorate was just too much,” Ash said.

That’s when he needed the bypass surgery. He took a year off and resigned his position.

He began working on his doctorate again, but he also needed a job, so he took the position as dean of students at State Fair Community College in Sedalia, Mo., in 2003. His wife, Mona, headed up the education program.

“I was going from a graduate position to a two-year community college,” Ash said.

He finished his doctorate program, so the State Fair president wanted to move him to vice president of Advancement in 2009.

“I’ve never even raised a nickel,” he had told the president. “I don’t know how to do that.”

The president didn’t give him another option, and in nine years at State Fair, he raised more than $10 million in grants.

“I learned a lot, I experienced a lot, but I was kind of a one-man show,” Ash said.

He aspired to become a school president someday, and then the job in West Burlington became available in the summer of 2012.

While he would go on to raise millions of dollars through grants and the generosity of families, that wasn’t his initial focus.

“When I came here, I wasn’t diving into fundraising,” Ash said, “I came here diving into trying to help the college. It was struggling. We were on the decline.”

SCC had good facilities but an odd color scheme.

“They were maroon roofs and cream brick,” Ash said. “Those aren’t even close to SCC colors,” which are red and black.

Ash took the first culture survey in 2014, and the feedback wasn’t good.

“It was really dismal,” Ash said. “The place was not happy.

“People were already angry and hurting.”

The best example came from the construction of the Hall of Sciences.

Ash launched a “Building the Dream” campaign. The Health Professions building construction was underway, and Ash announced the plan for a Hall of Sciences building.

“The different science departments were spread all over the place,” Ash said. “But I was getting an undercurrent from the science faculty that didn’t think it was going to happen.”

He said they told him, “‘We’ve been lied to before; not by you but the past administration.”

“I wanted our students here, if they were going to be science majors and they would transfer to Iowa or Iowa State or wherever, that they would be going into state-of-the-art labs,” Ash said.

It was either that or a building for another department, so the faculty took a chance and backed him up.

“The science building was finished in 2017 on the main campus, and in 2018, the college built an Industrial Technology Training Center on the Keokuk campus,” Ash said.

“That began to stimulate the improvements in the attitudes,” Ash said, “and the belief system, which passed on to the students, and now we’re seeing this increase in enrollment.”

Like the rest of us, Ash said, “Students like shiny new things. We like up-to-date stuff. Even though our computer system is top of the grade, our internet service is faster than you can imagine.”

As for the financing and grant money Ash has helped raise over the years, it has led Ash to boast about all that has been added to the school: “It’s all paid for.”

That includes the new rec center, which is expected to be ready for use next spring, and will feature a basketball court, cardio equipment, weightlifting facilities for students and faculty, and a walking track for the entire community.

Ash said SCC has a partnership with Great River Medical Center, Mike Mohrfeld, and his solar panels in Fort Madison, and the school has a partner in Washington, D.C., seeking federal grants.

“We’ve gotten back millions of dollars in that partnership,” Ash said of the D.C. partner.

“It’s been a tremendous journey,” he said. “Early on, I quit about six times in my head. It was pretty bad here.”

“People would see that when we said something, that’s what we did,” Ash said, “and if we couldn’t do that, then we came back and said, ‘Well, we wanted to do that, but the timing’s off.’ ”

All that, and Ash still puts out a Student Satisfaction Inventory and a Climate Survey for the faculty.

“We’re serious about making changes,” Ash said.

“SCC will never be the biggest; we just don’t have the land mass to make us the biggest,” Ash said. “But we can be the best, and that’s what we’re aiming for.”

By Chris FaulknerBurlington BeaconSoutheastern Community College President Dr. Michael Ash doesn’t want to be remembered for adding new buildings to the campus. However, he has been instrumental in securing many of them during his 13 years with the school.Instead, “I want us to be able to see the work I’ve done,” Ash said,“The guidance I’ve given our staff as a way to improve our college to make it relevant to our community, to make it relevant to our students.”Going into the 2025-26 school year, SCC leads the state’s junior colleges in retention, and it leads in percentage of enrollment growth. Based on test scores, Ash said, “Our nursing program is No. 1 in the state.”The Hall of Sciences has state-of-the-art equipment, and SCC is getting a new CDL program.Ash oversaw the construction of a better dormitory for athletes and has added numerous sports teams to the program – including cross country and track, men’s and women’s wrestling, trap shooting, and golf – to attract more students.“There are more than 300 athletes on campus,” he said.Early in his education career, however, he was taking on far less than he is now, yet the stress was so much that he had to have triple-bypass surgery at 45.20-Year BreakAsh graduated from Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Okla., and worked in the school’s student affairs area.He earned his Master’s Degree and served as the dean of men for four years.But he switched gears and started a business for remodeling and construction. “I really enjoy doing something with my hands,” Ash said.Twenty years later, he came back to education. He served as Director of Counseling at Regent University, a graduate school in Virginia Beach, Va.&nbsp;He then became the Director of Human Services and began his doctoral program in higher education.“Between the job, the environment, the high-paced graduate education, and then working on the doctorate was just too much,” Ash said.That’s when he needed the bypass surgery. He took a year off and resigned his position.He began working on his doctorate again, but he also needed a job, so he took the position as dean of students at State Fair Community College in Sedalia, Mo., in 2003. His wife, Mona, headed up the education program.“I was going from a graduate position to a two-year community college,” Ash said.He finished his doctorate program, so the State Fair president wanted to move him to vice president of Advancement in 2009.“I’ve never even raised a nickel,” he had told the president. “I don’t know how to do that.”The president didn’t give him another option, and in nine years at State Fair, he raised more than $10 million in grants.“I learned a lot, I experienced a lot, but I was kind of a one-man show,” Ash said.He aspired to become a school president someday, and then the job in West Burlington became available in the summer of 2012.While he would go on to raise millions of dollars through grants and the generosity of families, that wasn’t his initial focus.College was struggling“When I came here, I wasn’t diving into fundraising,” Ash said, “I came here diving into trying to help the college. It was struggling. We were on the decline.”SCC had good facilities but an odd color scheme.“They were maroon roofs and cream brick,” Ash said. “Those aren’t even close to SCC colors,” which are red and black.Ash took the first culture survey in 2014, and the feedback wasn’t good.“It was really dismal,” Ash said. “The place was not happy.“People were already angry and hurting.”The best example came from the construction of the Hall of Sciences.Ash launched a “Building the Dream” campaign. The Health Professions building construction was underway, and Ash announced the plan for a Hall of Sciences building.“The different science departments were spread all over the place,” Ash said. “But I was getting an undercurrent from the science faculty that didn’t think it was going to happen.”He said they told him, “‘We’ve been lied to before; not by you but the past administration.”Ash was serious about his plans.“I wanted our students here, if they were going to be science majors and they would transfer to Iowa or Iowa State or wherever, that they would be going into state-of-the-art labs,” Ash said.It was either that or a building for another department, so the faculty took a chance and backed him up.“The science building was finished in 2017 on the main campus, and in 2018, the college built an Industrial Technology Training Center on the Keokuk campus,” Ash said.“That began to stimulate the improvements in the attitudes,” Ash said, “and the belief system, which passed on to the students, and now we’re seeing this increase in enrollment.”Like the rest of us, Ash said, “Students like shiny new things. We like up-to-date stuff. Even though our computer system is top of the grade, our internet service is faster than you can imagine.”As for the financing and grant money Ash has helped raise over the years, it has led Ash to boast about all that has been added to the school: “It’s all paid for.”That includes the new rec center, which is expected to be ready for use next spring, and will feature a basketball court, cardio equipment, weightlifting facilities for students and faculty, and a walking track for the entire community.Ash said SCC has a partnership with Great River Medical Center, Mike Mohrfeld, and his solar panels in Fort Madison, and the school has a partner in Washington, D.C., seeking federal grants.“We’ve gotten back millions of dollars in that partnership,” Ash said of the D.C. partner.“It’s been a tremendous journey,” he said. “Early on, I quit about six times in my head. It was pretty bad here.”But he eventually won people over.“People would see that when we said something, that’s what we did,” Ash said, “and if we couldn’t do that, then we came back and said, ‘Well, we wanted to do that, but the timing’s off.’ ”All that, and Ash still puts out a Student Satisfaction Inventory and a Climate Survey for the faculty.“We’re serious about making changes,” Ash said.“SCC will never be the biggest; we just don’t have the land mass to make us the biggest,” Ash said. “But we can be the best, and that’s what we’re aiming for.”

52 FACES: Building more than buildings

Southeastern Community College freshman Carter Ball plans to become a wrestling coach in the future, and he’s already got one admirer calling him “Coach.”

Ball is a 2025 graduate of Wapello High School who posted a 34-8 record in wrestling his senior year. He is currently a member of the first-ever wrestling team at SCC.

&nbsp;His goal with the SCC program is to “get better and learn a lot,” he said. “I want to go back to coaching someday, so I want to learn more every day so I can give back to the kids when I’m coaching them.”

He started his first collegiate season at 1-6, so “it’s not been great,” SCC head coach Gary Woods II said. “But we’ve been wrestling a lot better every match. He’s going to put it together. I’m excited he’s going to help us get some southeastern Iowa (wrestlers) to come in and build this thing. I call him Coach Ball all the time because he knows what he’s doing. It’s just that he hasn’t put it together on the mat yet.

“He’s not been the success he should have been, in my opinion,” Woods said, “but he’s wrestled some hammers. He’s not had the greatest draws at these open (tournaments), but that’s okay as long as he keeps his head on straight. He’s going to be where we need him to be towards the end. He’s a lot of fun to watch.

&nbsp;“He means the world to this team,” Woods said. “I’ve already offered him a scholarship for next year. The wins and losses, I don’t care about so much. It’s about progress and improvement. Since he decided to join Southeastern Community College, he’s really put in the hard work. He’s been going to some of the clubs around here. He puts in some extra practice at other places. He’s putting in the practice time here.”

In any sport, there are major adjustments to go from high school competition to collegiate competition.&nbsp;

For Ball, the biggest adjustment is “definitely the hand-fighting,” he said. “Between high school and college, the hand-fighting gets a lot tougher. Setting up your shots is a whole different deal between the two. (College wrestlers) are much quicker. You don’t find many people you can go out and hook anymore.”

He’s wrestling at a heavier weight than he did at Wapello, but there’s an advantage to that.

&nbsp;“I went up from 165 in high school,” he said. He’s at 184 at SCC. “So I don’t have to cut as much weight as I did then. So I feel better. I can focus on getting better every day instead of cutting weight. That’s on the plus side.”

“I played basketball when I was really little for a couple of years,” he said.&nbsp;

“Then I switched over and never looked back.”

&nbsp;He started wrestling at age 14. “There’s a good youth program in Wapello, called the Tomahawk Wrestling Club,” he said. “It’s a great program for young kids, junior high kids. It’s growing. I’m happy to see it.”

An auto mechanics major, Ball is undecided if he’ll pursue wrestling later on at a four-year school.&nbsp;

“We’ll see how these couple of years go and go from there,” he said.

By Joe GerenWMS SportsSoutheastern Community College freshman Carter Ball plans to become a wrestling coach in the future, and he’s already got one admirer calling him “Coach.”Ball is a 2025 graduate of Wapello High School who posted a 34-8 record in wrestling his senior year. He is currently a member of the first-ever wrestling team at SCC.&nbsp;His goal with the SCC program is to “get better and learn a lot,” he said. “I want to go back to coaching someday, so I want to learn more every day so I can give back to the kids when I’m coaching them.”He started his first collegiate season at 1-6, so “it’s not been great,” SCC head coach Gary Woods II said. “But we’ve been wrestling a lot better every match. He’s going to put it together. I’m excited he’s going to help us get some southeastern Iowa (wrestlers) to come in and build this thing. I call him Coach Ball all the time because he knows what he’s doing. It’s just that he hasn’t put it together on the mat yet.“He’s not been the success he should have been, in my opinion,” Woods said, “but he’s wrestled some hammers. He’s not had the greatest draws at these open (tournaments), but that’s okay as long as he keeps his head on straight. He’s going to be where we need him to be towards the end. He’s a lot of fun to watch.&nbsp;“He means the world to this team,” Woods said. “I’ve already offered him a scholarship for next year. The wins and losses, I don’t care about so much. It’s about progress and improvement. Since he decided to join Southeastern Community College, he’s really put in the hard work. He’s been going to some of the clubs around here. He puts in some extra practice at other places. He’s putting in the practice time here.”In any sport, there are major adjustments to go from high school competition to collegiate competition.&nbsp;For Ball, the biggest adjustment is “definitely the hand-fighting,” he said. “Between high school and college, the hand-fighting gets a lot tougher. Setting up your shots is a whole different deal between the two. (College wrestlers) are much quicker. You don’t find many people you can go out and hook anymore.”He’s wrestling at a heavier weight than he did at Wapello, but there’s an advantage to that.&nbsp;“I went up from 165 in high school,” he said. He’s at 184 at SCC. “So I don’t have to cut as much weight as I did then. So I feel better. I can focus on getting better every day instead of cutting weight. That’s on the plus side.”Ball wasn’t always a wrestler.“I played basketball when I was really little for a couple of years,” he said.&nbsp;“Then I switched over and never looked back.”&nbsp;He started wrestling at age 14. “There’s a good youth program in Wapello, called the Tomahawk Wrestling Club,” he said. “It’s a great program for young kids, junior high kids. It’s growing. I’m happy to see it.”An auto mechanics major, Ball is undecided if he’ll pursue wrestling later on at a four-year school.&nbsp;“We’ll see how these couple of years go and go from there,” he said.

Grit Over Glory 

Wapello junior libero Mya Wagner earned Player of the Year honors for the All-Southeast Iowa Superconference North Division team, as chosen by the nine division coaches.

The Arrows finished 8-0 in North Division play, and Coach Kenna Greiner received Coach of the Year honors. Wapello went 25-12 and finished its season in the regional semifinals with a 3-2 loss to fourth-ranked Holy Trinity.

For Wagner, the North Division recognition wasn’t the only honor she received. Wagner was named Sports Illustrated Class 1A Player of the Year in Iowa. The honor is determined by fan votes, with Wagner earning roughly 54 percent of the votes.

Sophomore Mila Jordan of Wapello was a unanimous pick for first-team hitter for the North Division, and she was joined by senior teammate Kate Lanz.

Joining them on the first team were: Louisa-Muscatine senior Taylor Morrison, Columbus senior Kennedy Woepking, Hillcrest senior Niva Helmuth, and Pekin junior Paislee Coleman.

Both Wapello setters, freshman Taeya Wagner and junior Annaka Greiner earned first-team honors, with Wagner a unanimous choice. Daniela Diaz, a senior from Columbus, was the other first-team setter.

The first-team defensive specialist was Kaylee Nguyen, an L-M junior. Columbus junior Zai Par was named the utility player.

Hitters: Jessica Del Rio, Sr., Columbus; Carlee Lunsford, Jr., WACO; Quin Smith, Sr., Winfield-Mount Union; Kaelyn Townsley, Sr., Winfield-Mount Union, and Ruth Wittoft, Jr., Hillcrest.

Setters: Madisen Kellogg, Sr., Winfield-Mount Union; Clair Withrow, Sr., Hillcrest.

Libero: Jocelyn Hernandez, Sr., Columbus.

Defensive specialist:&nbsp; Emersyn Schultz, Sr., Highland.

Utility player: Emmalni Marshall, So., Wapello.

Wapello: Macey Kuntz, Jr.; Erica Gilette, Sr.

Winfield-Mount Union:&nbsp; Katie Miller, Sr.; Kellee Milks, Sr.

L-M: Ashlynn Watkins-Schoenig, Jr.; Ella Mullikin, Jr.

Columbus: Hailey Wellington, Sr.; Mady Payne, Jr.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/11/1762729219788.jpeg" alt="2-28.jpg" />
 <figcaption>2-28.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Greiner is the top coachBeacon/WMS SportsWapello junior libero Mya Wagner earned Player of the Year honors for the All-Southeast Iowa Superconference North Division team, as chosen by the nine division coaches.The Arrows finished 8-0 in North Division play, and Coach Kenna Greiner received Coach of the Year honors. Wapello went 25-12 and finished its season in the regional semifinals with a 3-2 loss to fourth-ranked Holy Trinity.For Wagner, the North Division recognition wasn’t the only honor she received. Wagner was named Sports Illustrated Class 1A Player of the Year in Iowa. The honor is determined by fan votes, with Wagner earning roughly 54 percent of the votes.Sophomore Mila Jordan of Wapello was a unanimous pick for first-team hitter for the North Division, and she was joined by senior teammate Kate Lanz.Joining them on the first team were: Louisa-Muscatine senior Taylor Morrison, Columbus senior Kennedy Woepking, Hillcrest senior Niva Helmuth, and Pekin junior Paislee Coleman.Both Wapello setters, freshman Taeya Wagner and junior Annaka Greiner earned first-team honors, with Wagner a unanimous choice. Daniela Diaz, a senior from Columbus, was the other first-team setter.The first-team defensive specialist was Kaylee Nguyen, an L-M junior. Columbus junior Zai Par was named the utility player.The Second TeamHitters: Jessica Del Rio, Sr., Columbus; Carlee Lunsford, Jr., WACO; Quin Smith, Sr., Winfield-Mount Union; Kaelyn Townsley, Sr., Winfield-Mount Union, and Ruth Wittoft, Jr., Hillcrest.Setters: Madisen Kellogg, Sr., Winfield-Mount Union; Clair Withrow, Sr., Hillcrest.Libero: Jocelyn Hernandez, Sr., Columbus.Defensive specialist:&nbsp; Emersyn Schultz, Sr., Highland.Utility player: Emmalni Marshall, So., Wapello.Honorable mentionWapello: Macey Kuntz, Jr.; Erica Gilette, Sr.Winfield-Mount Union:&nbsp; Katie Miller, Sr.; Kellee Milks, Sr.L-M: Ashlynn Watkins-Schoenig, Jr.; Ella Mullikin, Jr.Columbus: Hailey Wellington, Sr.; Mady Payne, Jr.Final league standingsWapello 8-0Columbus 7-1Winfield-Mount Union 6-2Louisa-Muscatine 5-3Hillcrest 4-4Pekin 3-5Highland 2-6WACO 1-7Lone Tree 0-8

WMS Sports: Wagner named North’s Player of the Year

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/4/1745866962885.jpeg" alt="Burlington High School's Anna Buxton returns the ball during her singles match against Keokuk High School's Neveah Logan on April 21 at Burlington's tennis courts. Photo/John Lovretta&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Burlington High School's Anna Buxton returns the ball during her singles match against Keokuk High School's Neveah Logan on April 21 at Burlington's tennis courts. Photo/John Lovretta&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/4/1745867045285.jpeg" alt="Burlington High School's Anna Buxton returns the ball during her singles match against Keokuk High School's Neveah Logan on April 21 at Burlington's tennis courts. Photo/John Lovretta&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Burlington High School's Anna Buxton returns the ball during her singles match against Keokuk High School's Neveah Logan on April 21 at Burlington's tennis courts. Photo/John Lovretta&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/4/1745867087316.jpeg" alt="Burlington High School's Josie Newell returns the ball during her singles match against Keokuk High School's Aubrey Dade on April 21 at Burlington's tennis courts. Photo/John Lovretta&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Burlington High School's Josie Newell returns the ball during her singles match against Keokuk High School's Aubrey Dade on April 21 at Burlington's tennis courts. Photo/John Lovretta&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/4/1745867145293.jpeg" alt="Burlington High School's Ava Moffett (2) returns the ball during her singles match against Keokuk High School's Sophia Rule, on April 21 at Burlington's tennis courts. Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Burlington High School's Ava Moffett (2) returns the ball during her singles match against Keokuk High School's Sophia Rule, on April 21 at Burlington's tennis courts. Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>

BHS Girls Tennis Vs. Keokuk

The YMCA Xcel&nbsp;gymnastics&nbsp;competition team returned from the state meet with a couple of strong team finishes.

The bronze-level team earned a fifth- and a third-place trophy.

All 24 members of the Xcel team qualified for the state meet, and 12 of 14 eligible&nbsp;gymnasts&nbsp;qualified for the USAG Region 4 Xcel Regionals competition on April 25-27 in Madison, Wis. That ends the season, which started in November.

But&nbsp;gymnastics&nbsp;is a year-round program for the Y, and it’s been going on for at least 40 years, according to current Xcel coach Alaina Mathews.

It even outgrew the Y facility 11 years ago; the YMCA&nbsp;Gymnastics&nbsp;and Cheer Center is at 2830 Mount Pleasant Street. It’s Door No. 8 in the series of warehouses.

Mathews started the Xcel competition program in 2019 and became the head coach, with just four girls on the squad. The team has 31 ready to compete next year.

Mathews started&nbsp;gymnastics&nbsp;when she was six. She competed until she was 14, and three years later, she was working in the recreational portion of the program and giving private lessons. A year later, she was working with head coach Tasha Prickett.

Prickett coached the Junior Olympic/Development team for the majority of the 30 years she was with the Y program.

“I love the sport of&nbsp;gymnastics,” said Mathews, who also manages the facility.

“Gymnastics&nbsp;can teach so many things: strength training, determination, dedication. It helps develop a great work ethic. It teaches them grit and, self-motivation and confidence.”

There are multiple levels based on age and skill level. Nine were on the gold team, five on the silver team, and 10 on the bronze.

“Pre-team is an invited group of athletes from our other group of athletes that are looking for that next step to get them ready to compete,” Mathews said.

“They show they have the work ethic and desire to go forward in&nbsp;gymnastics. They work on strength training, body shaping, and flexibility.”

The youngest member of the pre-team is five, and an invitation is based on the child’s level of maturity and physical stamina.

To participate in the competitive portion, a girl must be a Y member, but anyone can sign up for the recreational program or get private lessons.

Next year’s roster is full, but there is space on the recreational side for those wanting to learn the sport and improve their skills.

Matthews said they have boys in the recreational program, but there aren’t enough apparatuses for boys to try out for the Xcel team.

“They can work on floor skills and strength skills,” Mathews said.

One of the sites for a meet is in a club’s gym, but the other meets are in sports complexes or convention centers, with between 50 and 100 gymnasts&nbsp;competing.

Mathews said that can be stressful for new competitors.

“It’s really fun to be able to see them start their first (meet) and be absolutely terrified, and then by the end of their season, they’re comfortable in the competition setting,” Mathews said.&nbsp;

“They’re less guarded. Their true ability steps out, and they start to shine out there.”

So even though it is a competitive team looking to score high and win medals, Mathews said, “It’s more than just a sport for us. It teaches them so much about themselves. They learn to be confident and trust in themselves. They learn to push themselves outside their comfort zone and truly see what they are capable of.”

The recreational sessions are held on Mondays, Tuesdays, some Thursdays, and Saturdays.

To sign up for the program, email Mathews at&nbsp;alaina@burlingtony.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/4/1745783466349.jpeg" alt="Photo by John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Photo by John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>By Chris FaulknerThe YMCA Xcel&nbsp;gymnastics&nbsp;competition team returned from the state meet with a couple of strong team finishes.The bronze-level team earned a fifth- and a third-place trophy.All 24 members of the Xcel team qualified for the state meet, and 12 of 14 eligible&nbsp;gymnasts&nbsp;qualified for the USAG Region 4 Xcel Regionals competition on April 25-27 in Madison, Wis. That ends the season, which started in November.But&nbsp;gymnastics&nbsp;is a year-round program for the Y, and it’s been going on for at least 40 years, according to current Xcel coach Alaina Mathews.It even outgrew the Y facility 11 years ago; the YMCA&nbsp;Gymnastics&nbsp;and Cheer Center is at 2830 Mount Pleasant Street. It’s Door No. 8 in the series of warehouses.Mathews started the Xcel competition program in 2019 and became the head coach, with just four girls on the squad. The team has 31 ready to compete next year.A Lifelong PursuitMathews started&nbsp;gymnastics&nbsp;when she was six. She competed until she was 14, and three years later, she was working in the recreational portion of the program and giving private lessons. A year later, she was working with head coach Tasha Prickett.Prickett coached the Junior Olympic/Development team for the majority of the 30 years she was with the Y program.“I love the sport of&nbsp;gymnastics,” said Mathews, who also manages the facility.“Gymnastics&nbsp;can teach so many things: strength training, determination, dedication. It helps develop a great work ethic. It teaches them grit and, self-motivation and confidence.”There are multiple levels based on age and skill level. Nine were on the gold team, five on the silver team, and 10 on the bronze.The Y also has a pre-team of 22 girls.“Pre-team is an invited group of athletes from our other group of athletes that are looking for that next step to get them ready to compete,” Mathews said.“They show they have the work ethic and desire to go forward in&nbsp;gymnastics. They work on strength training, body shaping, and flexibility.”The youngest member of the pre-team is five, and an invitation is based on the child’s level of maturity and physical stamina.To participate in the competitive portion, a girl must be a Y member, but anyone can sign up for the recreational program or get private lessons.Next year’s roster is full, but there is space on the recreational side for those wanting to learn the sport and improve their skills.Matthews said they have boys in the recreational program, but there aren’t enough apparatuses for boys to try out for the Xcel team.“They can work on floor skills and strength skills,” Mathews said.One of the sites for a meet is in a club’s gym, but the other meets are in sports complexes or convention centers, with between 50 and 100 gymnasts&nbsp;competing.Mathews said that can be stressful for new competitors.“It’s really fun to be able to see them start their first (meet) and be absolutely terrified, and then by the end of their season, they’re comfortable in the competition setting,” Mathews said.&nbsp;“They’re less guarded. Their true ability steps out, and they start to shine out there.”So even though it is a competitive team looking to score high and win medals, Mathews said, “It’s more than just a sport for us. It teaches them so much about themselves. They learn to be confident and trust in themselves. They learn to push themselves outside their comfort zone and truly see what they are capable of.”The recreational sessions are held on Mondays, Tuesdays, some Thursdays, and Saturdays.To sign up for the program, email Mathews at&nbsp;alaina@burlingtony.org.<figure>
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Sticking the landing 

The “War on 34” isn’t just a slogan, Southeastern Community College men’s basketball coach Lorenzo Watkins will tell you.

Watkins should know. He’s been a combatant on both sides.

As any Blackhawk fan can tell you, “The War on 34” is the basketball rivalry between SCC and Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa. Both schools are located near U.S. Highway 34. It has been heralded as the fiercest rivalry in junior college basketball.

This year’s battles will ignite on the western front. The Blackhawks will deploy to Indian Hills on Jan. 18. The Warriors invade SCC’s Loren Walker Arena on Feb. 15.

Indian Hills head coach Terry Carroll, who later coached at SCC, found Watkins at Craddock High School in Portsmouth, Va., in 1991 and lured him to Ottumwa. Watkins became a two-time All-Region XI guard and played on the Warriors’ first team to qualify for the national tournament, finishing fourth.

“My mom and dad were in the military,” Watkins said. “They got stationed in Korea, so I stayed in Virginia and graduated from high school. My mom, dad, and two sisters went to Seoul, Korea. Coach Carroll came out to Portsmouth, Va., and watched me play. I got recruited to play at Indian Hills.”

After Indian Hills, Watkins played two seasons at Idaho State, averaging 14.1 points a game. As a player, however, he had no plans to enter coaching.

“Did I want to get into coaching?” he asked. “Nope. I was always in criminal justice programs and really wanted to work in like a juvenile detention center to try to help kids get through some stuff. Pat Lacy, who is with the detention center in Mount Pleasant and with the one here in Burlington, was my college roommate (at Indian Hills). We always talked about doing it and he’s been doing it for 30-plus years now. We played basketball together at Indian Hills.”

Lacy is currently the division manager for the Eighth Judicial District Department of Correctional Services.

Watkins’ coach at Idaho State muddled the plans.

“My head coach, Herb Williams, said, ‘Hey, what do you think about staying on, helping us out (as a graduate assistant) and see how you like it?’&nbsp; I did it, liked it, and then got an opportunity to come back to Indian Hills to work with Coach Carroll” as his assistant.

He also worked as an assistant at some four-year programs and as Carroll’s assistant at SCC.

Watkins was head coach at Indian Hills four years, posting a 94-16 record, and is now in his eighth season as head coach at SCC. His Blackhawk teams have gone 171-56. His current team is 14-1 at the holiday break.

To some die-hard fans, going from Indian Hills to SCC may be heresy.

“I’ve been here 16 years,” Watkins said, “and it was probably the hardest thing to do as a player, as an assistant coach, as a head coach at Indian Hills. Now you come to the biggest rival. It was tough. I have life-long friends still over there, some that I went to school with over there, some that helped me get my career going.

“Once I got over here,” Watkins continued, “the thing with Coach Carroll, they looked at him and said, ‘We’ve been rooting against you for ages. Not just rooting, we’ve been hating you.’ That War on 34, that was for real. That wasn’t just a slogan. It was real.”

“I really, really appreciate the open arms of people here,” Watkins said. “That’s what Burlington’s about. I have life-long friends here now, and that’s why we continue to stay here.”

Watkins is looking for more than just basketball skills on the recruiting trail.

“Everybody talks about you’ve got to get the most talented kids,” Watkins said. “I think a lot of it is looking at the kid as a person. How are you going to fit into the community? I want a kid who will sacrifice.”

He added: “They’ve got to come from a winning program. Everybody is teaching these kids about being offensive-minded. So then, when I get them, some of them shut down. Some of them can’t understand that you’ve got to sacrifice one end of the floor for the other. If you want to have success, you’ve got to change a little bit, your mindset. Some things have to be a little bit more important, defending, rebounding the ball, taking care of the ball. Those things don’t need any talent. It’s commitment and determination.”

“It’s about sacrifices,” Watkins said. “The guy to the right of you and the guy to the left of you is as good or better than you. Now, you have to coexist. So, what are you going to sacrifice to win? That’s what it’s about. I have to get these guys to understand that.”

The most important victory for the basketball players is the diploma.

“To me, to see our guys graduate and move on, that’s my gratification,” Watkins said. “We’re going to win games. Yep. I’d love to win every game and the national championship every year. Nothing’s going to change my work ethic, but my success comes from going into these kids’ homes and seeing where they come from and where they have an opportunity to go. We’re going to give you every opportunity to be successful on and off the floor.”

He continued: “If I ever get to a point where it’s just win, win, win, win, then I’m going to find something else to do.”

Watkins and his wife Sara have four sons and a daughter. Their son Mason is in the midst of a successful high school basketball career at West Burlington High School. Since SCC and the high school normally have games on different days, Watkins is able to follow Mason’s career.

Sara, a native of Eldon, played softball for Indian Hills.

Watkins has had offers to coach elsewhere.

“But why?” Watkins asked. “I love coaching here. I love the town. I love raising our kids here, and I have great friends. I don’t need anything else.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/burlington-beacon-media-bucket/public/2025/1/1736010152652.jpeg" alt="Photo by John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Photo by John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>By Joe GerenThe “War on 34” isn’t just a slogan, Southeastern Community College men’s basketball coach Lorenzo Watkins will tell you.“It’s real,” he said.Watkins should know. He’s been a combatant on both sides.As any Blackhawk fan can tell you, “The War on 34” is the basketball rivalry between SCC and Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa. Both schools are located near U.S. Highway 34. It has been heralded as the fiercest rivalry in junior college basketball.This year’s battles will ignite on the western front. The Blackhawks will deploy to Indian Hills on Jan. 18. The Warriors invade SCC’s Loren Walker Arena on Feb. 15.Indian Hills head coach Terry Carroll, who later coached at SCC, found Watkins at Craddock High School in Portsmouth, Va., in 1991 and lured him to Ottumwa. Watkins became a two-time All-Region XI guard and played on the Warriors’ first team to qualify for the national tournament, finishing fourth.“My mom and dad were in the military,” Watkins said. “They got stationed in Korea, so I stayed in Virginia and graduated from high school. My mom, dad, and two sisters went to Seoul, Korea. Coach Carroll came out to Portsmouth, Va., and watched me play. I got recruited to play at Indian Hills.”After Indian Hills, Watkins played two seasons at Idaho State, averaging 14.1 points a game. As a player, however, he had no plans to enter coaching.“Did I want to get into coaching?” he asked. “Nope. I was always in criminal justice programs and really wanted to work in like a juvenile detention center to try to help kids get through some stuff. Pat Lacy, who is with the detention center in Mount Pleasant and with the one here in Burlington, was my college roommate (at Indian Hills). We always talked about doing it and he’s been doing it for 30-plus years now. We played basketball together at Indian Hills.”Lacy is currently the division manager for the Eighth Judicial District Department of Correctional Services.Watkins’ coach at Idaho State muddled the plans.“My head coach, Herb Williams, said, ‘Hey, what do you think about staying on, helping us out (as a graduate assistant) and see how you like it?’&nbsp; I did it, liked it, and then got an opportunity to come back to Indian Hills to work with Coach Carroll” as his assistant.He also worked as an assistant at some four-year programs and as Carroll’s assistant at SCC.Watkins was head coach at Indian Hills four years, posting a 94-16 record, and is now in his eighth season as head coach at SCC. His Blackhawk teams have gone 171-56. His current team is 14-1 at the holiday break.To some die-hard fans, going from Indian Hills to SCC may be heresy.“I’ve been here 16 years,” Watkins said, “and it was probably the hardest thing to do as a player, as an assistant coach, as a head coach at Indian Hills. Now you come to the biggest rival. It was tough. I have life-long friends still over there, some that I went to school with over there, some that helped me get my career going.“Once I got over here,” Watkins continued, “the thing with Coach Carroll, they looked at him and said, ‘We’ve been rooting against you for ages. Not just rooting, we’ve been hating you.’ That War on 34, that was for real. That wasn’t just a slogan. It was real.”But all is well now.“I really, really appreciate the open arms of people here,” Watkins said. “That’s what Burlington’s about. I have life-long friends here now, and that’s why we continue to stay here.”Watkins is looking for more than just basketball skills on the recruiting trail.“Everybody talks about you’ve got to get the most talented kids,” Watkins said. “I think a lot of it is looking at the kid as a person. How are you going to fit into the community? I want a kid who will sacrifice.”He added: “They’ve got to come from a winning program. Everybody is teaching these kids about being offensive-minded. So then, when I get them, some of them shut down. Some of them can’t understand that you’ve got to sacrifice one end of the floor for the other. If you want to have success, you’ve got to change a little bit, your mindset. Some things have to be a little bit more important, defending, rebounding the ball, taking care of the ball. Those things don’t need any talent. It’s commitment and determination.”“It’s about sacrifices,” Watkins said. “The guy to the right of you and the guy to the left of you is as good or better than you. Now, you have to coexist. So, what are you going to sacrifice to win? That’s what it’s about. I have to get these guys to understand that.”The most important victory for the basketball players is the diploma.“To me, to see our guys graduate and move on, that’s my gratification,” Watkins said. “We’re going to win games. Yep. I’d love to win every game and the national championship every year. Nothing’s going to change my work ethic, but my success comes from going into these kids’ homes and seeing where they come from and where they have an opportunity to go. We’re going to give you every opportunity to be successful on and off the floor.”He continued: “If I ever get to a point where it’s just win, win, win, win, then I’m going to find something else to do.”Watkins and his wife Sara have four sons and a daughter. Their son Mason is in the midst of a successful high school basketball career at West Burlington High School. Since SCC and the high school normally have games on different days, Watkins is able to follow Mason’s career.Sara, a native of Eldon, played softball for Indian Hills.Watkins has had offers to coach elsewhere.“But why?” Watkins asked. “I love coaching here. I love the town. I love raising our kids here, and I have great friends. I don’t need anything else.”

52 Faces: Former rival  molds SCC  program

Southeastern Community College’s men’s soccer team rallied from a two-goal deficit and ousted Iowa Central, 4-3, in overtime in the Division 2, Region 11 quarterfinals at Bracewell Stadium Saturday afternoon.

Juan Lagares scored in the 98th&nbsp;minute off a pass from Felix Martin for the sudden victory.

SCC (11-7-2), the tournament’s No. 4 seed, advances to Tuesday’s semifinal round at Norfolk, Neb., facing top-seeded Northeast (17-1-1). Western Iowa Tech (10-6-3) plays No. 2 seed Iowa Lakes (12-1-3) at Estherville in the other semifinal. The Region 11 championship match is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 2, to be hosted by the higher seed.

“It was a really difficult game,” SCC head coach Jorge Sierra said. “It was a good opponent coming in so it was whoever wanted it more. Thankfully for is we wanted it more. We just have to be ready for Northeast Nebraska on Tuesday.

“I feel they (the Tritons) really wanted to advance,” Sierra said. “They wanted to win, same way we wanted to win. This conference is the best one in the country and any team can beat the other on a given day. Thankfully, today it went for us.”

The Blackhawks struck first with a goal by Timeo Cordiez in the 14th&nbsp;minute, Diego Lozano assisting, but Iowa Central tied the score two minutes later. The Tritons scored twice more in the first 23 minutes of the second half for a 3-1 cushion.

Cordiez scored, this time unassisted, in the 80th&nbsp;minute, and Lagares added the tying goal in the 87th minute, assisted by Javier Hernandez. That set up overtime and Lagares's game-winner.

Sierra is expecting pressure from Northeast in Tuesday’s semifinal. “They just beat the No. 1 team (Iowa Lakes) in the country,” Sierra said, “so it’s going to be a difficult game for us. But we’ll be ready for it.”

No. 1 ranked Iowa Lakes fell at home to Northeast, 3-2, on Oct. 23. On Sept. 28, the Lakers visited Bracewell Stadium and tied with the Blackhawks, 3-3.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2024/10/1730041733126.jpeg" alt="Photo by John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Photo by John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>By Joe GerenSoutheastern Community College’s men’s soccer team rallied from a two-goal deficit and ousted Iowa Central, 4-3, in overtime in the Division 2, Region 11 quarterfinals at Bracewell Stadium Saturday afternoon.Juan Lagares scored in the 98th&nbsp;minute off a pass from Felix Martin for the sudden victory.SCC (11-7-2), the tournament’s No. 4 seed, advances to Tuesday’s semifinal round at Norfolk, Neb., facing top-seeded Northeast (17-1-1). Western Iowa Tech (10-6-3) plays No. 2 seed Iowa Lakes (12-1-3) at Estherville in the other semifinal. The Region 11 championship match is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 2, to be hosted by the higher seed.Iowa Central ended its season at 4-11-2.“It was a really difficult game,” SCC head coach Jorge Sierra said. “It was a good opponent coming in so it was whoever wanted it more. Thankfully for is we wanted it more. We just have to be ready for Northeast Nebraska on Tuesday.“I feel they (the Tritons) really wanted to advance,” Sierra said. “They wanted to win, same way we wanted to win. This conference is the best one in the country and any team can beat the other on a given day. Thankfully, today it went for us.”The Blackhawks struck first with a goal by Timeo Cordiez in the 14th&nbsp;minute, Diego Lozano assisting, but Iowa Central tied the score two minutes later. The Tritons scored twice more in the first 23 minutes of the second half for a 3-1 cushion.Cordiez scored, this time unassisted, in the 80th&nbsp;minute, and Lagares added the tying goal in the 87th minute, assisted by Javier Hernandez. That set up overtime and Lagares's game-winner.Sierra is expecting pressure from Northeast in Tuesday’s semifinal. “They just beat the No. 1 team (Iowa Lakes) in the country,” Sierra said, “so it’s going to be a difficult game for us. But we’ll be ready for it.”No. 1 ranked Iowa Lakes fell at home to Northeast, 3-2, on Oct. 23. On Sept. 28, the Lakers visited Bracewell Stadium and tied with the Blackhawks, 3-3.<figure>
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SCC rallies for regional win

Notre Dame struggled against No. 3 Holy Trinity in volleyball action on Thursday, and the Nikes' late surge down the stretch of the third game wasn't enough to avoid a sweep at Shottenkirk Gymnasium in Fort Madison.

The Nikes trailed the third set 15-9, but over the next five servers cut the lead to 18-17. The Nikes then took the lead at 20-19 and soon led 22-20. After trading side outs, Notre Dame led 23-21, but Adalyn Kruse for the Crusaders made a kill to return the serve. Presley Myers served out the set and the match, with Kruse making another kill to end it.

It didn't help that Notre Dame missed six serves in the first two sets. But Holy Trinity missed six serves in the final set.

Notre Dame drops to 18-10 overall, 4-2 in the South and plays in the New London Tournament Saturday.

Holy Trinity remains unbeaten at 5-0 in the South and is 19-5 overall. The Crusaders host Central Lee next Thursday.

“We've got some young players, and we couldn't get in system some times,” Notre Dame coach Susan Reid said.

“We had a pretty good game plan, and when we're in system, that game plan works.”

It's never easy taking on HTC on its home court.

“It's a big environment to play in,” Reid said. “They have some good players, and they're a tough team to play.”

HTC coach Melissa Freesmeier said, “We were doing the little things we've been working on in practice.

But in the third set, Freesmeier said there were “a lot of mistakes on our end that shouldn't have happened. But we still overcame it. We still stayed in the set, and we were able to pull it off.”

Freesmeier said that Notre Dame is a “great ball club. They continue to have a good season.”

So even though it was a three-and-out&nbsp;match, “you know it was a better match than that,” Freesmeier said.

Notre Dame had a balanced hitting attack. Addi Brockway made nine kills, Madelyn Knapp eight and Chloe Wenzel seven. McKenna Kipp added two.

Mallory Lily had 23 digs, Brockway 11, Knapp nine, Elmore five and Bella Drew and Addison Reid two each.

Wenzel made two blocks and also served an ace.

For Holy Trinity, Kruse had 14 kills and Myers 13 to lead the team. Anna Bendlage made 16 assists, and Elizabeth Griffith had 12.

Myers served four aces, and Olivia Bendlage three. Kruse led in digs with 12. Myers had three blocks.

<figure>
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 </figure>By Chris FaulknerNotre Dame struggled against No. 3 Holy Trinity in volleyball action on Thursday, and the Nikes' late surge down the stretch of the third game wasn't enough to avoid a sweep at Shottenkirk Gymnasium in Fort Madison.Holy Trinity 25-12, 25-20, 25-23.The Nikes trailed the third set 15-9, but over the next five servers cut the lead to 18-17. The Nikes then took the lead at 20-19 and soon led 22-20. After trading side outs, Notre Dame led 23-21, but Adalyn Kruse for the Crusaders made a kill to return the serve. Presley Myers served out the set and the match, with Kruse making another kill to end it.It didn't help that Notre Dame missed six serves in the first two sets. But Holy Trinity missed six serves in the final set.Notre Dame drops to 18-10 overall, 4-2 in the South and plays in the New London Tournament Saturday.Holy Trinity remains unbeaten at 5-0 in the South and is 19-5 overall. The Crusaders host Central Lee next Thursday.“We've got some young players, and we couldn't get in system some times,” Notre Dame coach Susan Reid said.“We had a pretty good game plan, and when we're in system, that game plan works.”It's never easy taking on HTC on its home court.“It's a big environment to play in,” Reid said. “They have some good players, and they're a tough team to play.”HTC coach Melissa Freesmeier said, “We were doing the little things we've been working on in practice.But in the third set, Freesmeier said there were “a lot of mistakes on our end that shouldn't have happened. But we still overcame it. We still stayed in the set, and we were able to pull it off.”Freesmeier said that Notre Dame is a “great ball club. They continue to have a good season.”So even though it was a three-and-out&nbsp;match, “you know it was a better match than that,” Freesmeier said.Notre Dame had a balanced hitting attack. Addi Brockway made nine kills, Madelyn Knapp eight and Chloe Wenzel seven. McKenna Kipp added two.Emma Elmore made 23 assists.Mallory Lily had 23 digs, Brockway 11, Knapp nine, Elmore five and Bella Drew and Addison Reid two each.Wenzel made two blocks and also served an ace.For Holy Trinity, Kruse had 14 kills and Myers 13 to lead the team. Anna Bendlage made 16 assists, and Elizabeth Griffith had 12.Myers served four aces, and Olivia Bendlage three. Kruse led in digs with 12. Myers had three blocks.

ND falls to HTC

Southeastern Community College's Taryn Havener took on  Northeast Community College on Wednesday at  SCC's Loren Walker Arena. SCC defeated Northeast 3-1. First set 25-20, second set 23-25, third set 25-15, and fourth set 25-21.

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 </figure>Photos by John LovrettaSoutheastern Community College's Taryn Havener took on Northeast Community College on Wednesday at SCC's Loren Walker Arena. SCC defeated Northeast 3-1. First set 25-20, second set 23-25, third set 25-15, and fourth set 25-21.<figure>
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SCC vs. Northeast Community College

West Burlington's ninth-ranked (Class 2A) volleyball team rallied from a 2-0 deficit at No. 5 (1A) Holy Trinity Catholic and sent the match into a fifth set.

But the host Crusaders defeated the Falcons 15-11 in the deciding set to win the two-hour, 10-minute match at Shottenkirk Gymnasium in Fort Madison.

West Burlington (14-2) plays Saturday in the Williamsburg Tournament. Holy Trinity improves to 3-2.

HTC won the first set 25-17 and had West Burlington down 20-11 and 22-15 in the second set. But the Falcons stormed back with five service points from Jayonna Hiley – including two from aces – to make it 22-20. West Burlington was serving match point, but Holy Trinity managed to stay alive and finally won 27-25.

West Burlington won the next two sets, 26-24, 25-17, getting big help from Brenna Beggs, who had 11 kills and a couple of big blocks in those two sets.

In the fifth set, through the first five rotations, West Burlington led 6-4. But HTC soon led 10-8 and pulled out the victory.

There were a number of long rallies in the two-hour night. West Burlington finished with 139 digs and Holy Trinity 124.

“I'm very, very pleased with the way they battled,” West Burlington coach Maureen Heath said of the Falcons. “That was a very good match. It didn't go our way, but that's going to make our team grow and grow.

“Everybody got their money's worth, that's for sure.”

Coach Heath praised Beggs for her contribution on the night. Beside Beggs' team-high 17 kills and six blocks, she also served 20 of 20 with two aces and added 15 digs.

Beggs' strength as a middle hitter is her swift windmill motion on her attacks that are hard for opposing defenses to dig up.

“No, I taught myself,” Beggs said. “It's just something I caught on.”

Taryn Snodgrass plays a big part in that as her setter. “We've been playing togther since like the sixth grade,” Beggs said. “We have a good connection.”

Coach Heath praised Snodgrass for her abilities.

“Snodgrass is like a workhorse out there,” Heath said. “You know you're going to get every maximum effort from that girl. She tries to move the ball around, running things down, but with control.”

Jayonna Hiley had 12 kills and served 14 of 14 with five aces, Mady Hamelton had 10 kills, Isabella Callison five and freshman Kaylee Webb four.

Webb came into the game as a middle hitter, “trying to mix things up,” Coach Heath said. “In this big of a game, she was very in tune, she was asking questions, the girls were helping her, I thought she did a great job.”

Hiley had a block and Webb and Snodgrass had one each.

Carli Cline led in digs with 42, Hiley had 31, Hamelton 20 and Snodgrass 15. Baylee Woodsmall added 12.

Cline served 21 of 22 with an ace, Hamelton was 16 of 16 with an ace, Snodgrass 11 of 12 with an ace and Woodsmall 12 of 12.

The Falcons served 94 of 96 on the night.

Holy Trinity is tough to beat at home, especially in the fifth set, but Crusaders coach Melissa Freesmeier didn't take anything for granted.

“When you play a team like West Burlington, and they're going to dig the ball, and they're going to keep the ball in play, they're not going to make a lot of mistakes, we're just going to have to go at them. Our hitters did that in set 5.”

HTC's 6-2 standout in the middle, Presley Myers, had a career high 23 kills and six blocks. Adalyn Kruse had 21 kills and Olivia Bendlage 13. Anna Bendlage made 38 assists. Teagan Snaadt had 33 digs and Elizabeth Griffin 32.

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 </figure>Falcons rallied from 2-0 deficitBy Chris FaulknerWest Burlington's ninth-ranked (Class 2A) volleyball team rallied from a 2-0 deficit at No. 5 (1A) Holy Trinity Catholic and sent the match into a fifth set.But the host Crusaders defeated the Falcons 15-11 in the deciding set to win the two-hour, 10-minute match at Shottenkirk Gymnasium in Fort Madison.West Burlington (14-2) plays Saturday in the Williamsburg Tournament. Holy Trinity improves to 3-2.HTC won the first set 25-17 and had West Burlington down 20-11 and 22-15 in the second set. But the Falcons stormed back with five service points from Jayonna Hiley – including two from aces – to make it 22-20. West Burlington was serving match point, but Holy Trinity managed to stay alive and finally won 27-25.West Burlington won the next two sets, 26-24, 25-17, getting big help from Brenna Beggs, who had 11 kills and a couple of big blocks in those two sets.In the fifth set, through the first five rotations, West Burlington led 6-4. But HTC soon led 10-8 and pulled out the victory.There were a number of long rallies in the two-hour night. West Burlington finished with 139 digs and Holy Trinity 124.Falcons can grow from this“I'm very, very pleased with the way they battled,” West Burlington coach Maureen Heath said of the Falcons. “That was a very good match. It didn't go our way, but that's going to make our team grow and grow.“Everybody got their money's worth, that's for sure.”Coach Heath praised Beggs for her contribution on the night. Beside Beggs' team-high 17 kills and six blocks, she also served 20 of 20 with two aces and added 15 digs.Beggs' strength as a middle hitter is her swift windmill motion on her attacks that are hard for opposing defenses to dig up.Did someone teach her to do it that way?“No, I taught myself,” Beggs said. “It's just something I caught on.”Taryn Snodgrass plays a big part in that as her setter. “We've been playing togther since like the sixth grade,” Beggs said. “We have a good connection.”Snodgrass had 40 assists.Coach Heath praised Snodgrass for her abilities.“Snodgrass is like a workhorse out there,” Heath said. “You know you're going to get every maximum effort from that girl. She tries to move the ball around, running things down, but with control.”Jayonna Hiley had 12 kills and served 14 of 14 with five aces, Mady Hamelton had 10 kills, Isabella Callison five and freshman Kaylee Webb four.Webb came into the game as a middle hitter, “trying to mix things up,” Coach Heath said. “In this big of a game, she was very in tune, she was asking questions, the girls were helping her, I thought she did a great job.”Hiley had a block and Webb and Snodgrass had one each.Carli Cline led in digs with 42, Hiley had 31, Hamelton 20 and Snodgrass 15. Baylee Woodsmall added 12.Cline served 21 of 22 with an ace, Hamelton was 16 of 16 with an ace, Snodgrass 11 of 12 with an ace and Woodsmall 12 of 12.The Falcons served 94 of 96 on the night.HTC shines in Set 5Holy Trinity is tough to beat at home, especially in the fifth set, but Crusaders coach Melissa Freesmeier didn't take anything for granted.“When you play a team like West Burlington, and they're going to dig the ball, and they're going to keep the ball in play, they're not going to make a lot of mistakes, we're just going to have to go at them. Our hitters did that in set 5.”HTC's 6-2 standout in the middle, Presley Myers, had a career high 23 kills and six blocks. Adalyn Kruse had 21 kills and Olivia Bendlage 13. Anna Bendlage made 38 assists. Teagan Snaadt had 33 digs and Elizabeth Griffin 32.

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