US EditionPublished • loading... • Updated
Even in Caitlin Clark's home state, girls high school basketball in decline. It thrives in this town
Newell-Fonda High School has 21 of 71 girls playing basketball, defying Iowa's 38% statewide participation drop, supported by strong community and youth programs.
- According to the National Federation of State High School Associations, girls basketball participation declined from 451,600 to 356,240, but community involvement remains strong, with many local girls playing.
- Shifts in local demographics and sports offerings have driven volleyball's growth from 380,994 to 492,799 since 2000, while girls wrestling, sanctioned in Iowa 2022-23, and rural northwest Iowa communities’ population loss reduce basketball athletes.
- Coach Dick Jungers' tenure shows a 527-83 record with four championships and 16 state tournaments, while Newell-Fonda Mustangs opened 14-1 and host pregame community suppers with livestream audiences up to 2,500 views.
- A state task force formed last year includes Kristin Meyer, Dowling Catholic coach, as some Iowa high schools disbanded programs or shortened JV games due to low turnout from 40 to 28, highlighting ongoing program strain.
- Coaches recommending youth changes say playing three-on-three until fifth grade and recruiting women coaches could improve skills, while Newell-Fonda's second-grade team signed up 17 of 21 girls despite Caitlin Clark boosting interest.
Insights by Ground AI
22 Articles
22 Articles
Coverage Details
Total News Sources22
Leaning Left8Leaning Right2Center9Last UpdatedBias Distribution47% Center
Bias Distribution
- 47% of the sources are Center
47% Center
L 42%
C 47%
11%
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
