Sports : Three Local Athletes receive the E. Wayne Cooley “YOU CAN” Award in Basketball

The Iowa Girls Coaches Association has announced the recipients of this year’s basketball E. Wayne Cooley “You Can” Award. The “You Can” Award illustrates the qualities of determination, character and the values of Pursuing Victory With Honor.

 Awarded by the IGCA in appreciation of the longtime Executive Secretary of the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union, E. Wayne Cooley. Mr. Cooley is a builder; under his leadership the IGHSAU was transformed into the nation's leading high school program for girls.

The "You Can" Award illustrates the qualities of determination, character and the values of Pursuing Victory With Honor. These are attributes Mr. Cooley, the Iowa National Guard and the Iowa Girls' Coaches Association are proud to represent.

ATHLETE AWARD:

PURPOSE: To recognize inspirational Iowa Girl athletes. All nominated athletes receive a certificate.

CRITERIA: The athlete must show the elements of good character (trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship). Any athlete who influenced their team in a positive manner while demonstrating great character, overcoming great odds or sacrifice is eligible. We are especially looking for the athlete that is not chosen all-conference, but is just as valuable to the team.

The following local athletes were recipients:

Ali Lutz, Vinton-Shellsburg

Ali has an infectious spirit that makes coming to practice as a teammate and coach easy. She always has a smile no matter the situation. She picks teammates up when they need it. She has told staff to not start her when she has deserved it. She thinks of others first before her self. Ali is a great human being and is a great student and deserving of this award!

Nominated by: Adam Fish Head Coach Vinton-Shellsburg Basketball

Tara Crowley, Center Point-Urbana

After making the leap from basketball to wrestling her sophomore year, Tara Crowley transitioned so seamlessly you never would have known she was a newcomer. She mastered skills and techniques with impressive speed, but her true impact was felt the moment she stepped into the room.

Equipped with natural, innate leadership, Tara rose to become a three-year captain. During her tenure, she earned the deep respect of her teammates as a dedicated mentor and positive role model. Even in the face of emotionally taxing matches, Tara exemplified the heart of a captain—composed and resilient, she always prioritized returning to the mat to support her team.

Nominated by: Chloe Loyd and James Clemons Head Coach Center Point-Urbana Wrestling

Kaitlyn Beck, Center Point-Urbana

Kaitlyn Beck consistently demonstrates outstanding character through her trustworthiness, respect for teammates and coaches, and willingness to take responsibility in every situation. She influences her team in a positive way by leading through action—doing the small, often unnoticed things that make everyone around her better. Kaitlyn shows fairness and caring by encouraging others, putting the team first, and stepping into whatever role is needed without hesitation. 

Though she may not always receive all-conference recognition, her sacrifice, resilience, and steady leadership make her just as valuable—if not more—to the success of the team.

Nominated by: Nate Kellogg Head Coach Center Point-Urbana Basketball

Basketball Academic All-State 2025-2026

Lily Miller Center Point-Urbana