NEWELL, Iowa (AP) — The towns of Newell and Fonda, nestled in northwest Iowa, are experiencing the effects of rural decline, with empty storefronts and vacant homes becoming common sights. Despite this, the community spirit is alive and well, centered around the Newell-Fonda High School gymnasium. Here, residents from Newell, Fonda, and nearby farms gather in blue attire to support their renowned girls basketball team.
With 21 out of 71 girls in grades 9-12 participating in varsity or junior varsity basketball, the Mustangs stand out. Nationally, high school girls basketball participation has decreased, even as college and professional women’s basketball gain popularity. Iowa’s own Caitlin Clark has played a significant role in this surge in interest, but local participation continues to wane.
“When I first started coaching girls basketball, every team you played had a good point guard, a good shooter and a solid post player and then they could build from there,” said Newell-Fonda coach Dick Jungers. “Now, some of the teams we play are struggling to have maybe even one or two good players in the whole program. It’s kind of concerning, but kids are putting their time elsewhere.”
The decline is notably steep in Iowa, a state with a rich history in girls’ basketball, including hosting the first state tournament for girls back in 1920. Recent years have seen some Iowa high schools eliminate their basketball programs, while others have only a varsity team. Junior varsity games are often shorter, as players must also join varsity matches.
Basketball remains a focal point in Newell and Fonda, especially since Jody Maske led four teams to state tournaments between 1995 and 2002. His successor, Jungers, boasts a 527-83 record, four championships, and 16 state tournament appearances over 24 years. The Mustangs, a powerhouse in Iowa’s small-school class (1A), have played in the state final seven of the past eight seasons.
Jim Gailey, an 89-year-old fan, remarked, “It’s an intense desire to win, you’ve got to admit.” Senior center Jocee Walsh added, “If you know Newell-Fonda, you know we play basketball.”
Who’s got next?
The National Federation of State High School Associations reports a national decline in girls basketball participation from 451,600 in 2000 to 356,240 in 2025, with volleyball surpassing basketball as the leading girls team sport. States like Kansas, Louisiana, North Dakota, Indiana, and Iowa are among those experiencing the most significant declines.
In Iowa, participation has dropped 38% since 2000, from 9,401 to 5,856. Despite strong college and professional pathways, high school numbers remain a concern. Greg Turner, director of basketball for the Amateur Athletic Union, noted a slight decline in AAU-sanctioned programs, which often draw dedicated players.
While Caitlin Clark’s impressive performances have sparked interest in women’s basketball, high school participation has not mirrored this trend. Even at Clark’s alma mater, Dowling Catholic, numbers have decreased, with Coach Kristin Meyer observing a drop from 40 players a decade ago to 28 this season.
Chad Jilek, coach of the two-time defending 5A champion Johnston team, also reports dwindling numbers. “Last year I only had 20 kids, and we’re the third-largest high school in the state of Iowa and that’s the lowest number we ever had,” he said, though numbers have since improved.
Meyer, Jilek, and Jungers are part of a task force addressing this statewide decline. They cite club volleyball and girls wrestling as contributing factors, alongside the challenging nature of basketball skills and the physical demands of the sport.
Youth programs are key
Meyer suggests innovative approaches for youth teams, such as three-on-three games to enhance skill development. She also advocates for more female coaches at the grade-school level to inspire young girls.
At Newell-Fonda, basketball involvement starts early, with a new second-grade team forming this year. “I think it’s what you do even if you don’t have athletic talent,” said Andrea Vanderhoff. Vanderhoff, a former player and current coach, sees basketball as integral to local culture.
The Mustangs’ success is attributed to early and consistent participation, creating strong team dynamics. Parents, many of whom are former players, actively support the program, ensuring its continuity.
‘Generation by generation’
In a recent game, Newell-Fonda defeated a larger-enrollment Storm Lake team 70-33, showcasing their team chemistry and skill. Parents are deeply invested, volunteering and fostering a basketball tradition that spans generations.
Marie Breon, class of 1956, is a testament to this legacy, attending games and cheering for her descendants on the court. Despite the absence of signs marking state championships, Breon believes Newell-Fonda’s reputation speaks for itself: “Everybody knows us,” she said. “We don’t have to tell ‘em.”
Standing-room only
Games are community events, complete with pregame meals like pulled pork sandwiches, reflecting the area’s agricultural roots. For those unable to find a seat, the games are livestreamed, attracting thousands of viewers.
Jungers sums up the community’s commitment: “In Newell or Fonda, what are you going to do if you’re not going to basketball games?” For residents, basketball is more than a pastime; it’s a cherished tradition.
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AP youth sports: https://apnews.com/hub/youth-sports
