Champion caliber Four sports move forward to state at New London

NEW LONDON - The New London Community School District is celebrating a season of success like none other.

The high school's cross-country, football, volleyball and esports teams all moved forward to state competitions.

A band student from the district also was selected for all-state honors.

High School Principal Scott Kracht said this is the first time in his nine years with the school that the district has sent more than one team to state-level competitions.

'It's awesome the success our kids are having … to have so many different groups see this kind of success, it's a kudos to the students, teachers, the community, the coaches - everybody,” he said.

Kracht added seeing students succeed in what has been an abnormal year is a testament to their commitment and dedication.

'They've really taken everything in stride with everything that has gone on this year. When we made changes like having masks in practice, they've risen to the occasion,” he said.

Fellow students and classmates were as excited to see their peers be successful.

Following a cross-country send-off on Friday, ahead of the team's competition at Fort Dodge on Saturday, Taylor Phillips, a freshman, said the year has been 'really exciting.”

'I'm really happy for them,” the student said.

La'Nya Franklin, a sophomore who is part of the cheerleading squad, said the teams' success has been 'surprising.”

'I think it's kind of interesting because we're such a small school and such a small town. It's surprising almost to be so successful and enjoying what they're doing,” Franklin said.

Middle school science teacher Shane Barron, added that it has been gratifying to see students' 'dreams come true.”

'For some of these kids, they are dreams, and they've come true for them,” Barron said.

'I watched the track during the summer. These kids were running on the track in 90-degree heat. Both Danville and New London got together for COVID friendly workouts. They've earned everything they got,” he added.