Key Contributors Drive Another Stellar Season
The 2024–25 Estherville Lincoln-Central (ELC) girls basketball team continued its tradition of excellence behind the leadership of several standout players:
Haylee Stokes, the team's floor general at point guard, led all of Class 3A in scoring with 23.5 points per game. A two-time Class 3A All-Tournament Team selection and former captain, Haylee wrapped up her outstanding high school career as a First Team All-State selection and will continue her journey at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
Rylee Yager, a versatile guard/forward, was also an All-State selection, contributing 15 points and 8 rebounds per game, showcasing her all-around impact on both ends of the court.
Hillary Ruschy added strength inside and out, earning All-State honors for her ability to defend and score in the post.
Cara Schiltz stepped into a bigger role this season and earned Lakes Conference Honorable Mention thanks to her defensive intensity and leadership.
Julissa Smith, though undersized at 5’3”, was a force on the boards, proving that heart and hustle can often outweigh height.
Season Recap: Four Straight Trips to State
ELC once again proved itself as a state tournament staple, making its fourth consecutive trip to Des Moines. The team advanced to the Class 3A semifinals, narrowly falling to eventual state champion Mount Vernon by just one point—a heartbreaking but proud finish for a program that continues to set the standard.
“Another GREAT season for us,” said Head Coach Don Martindale. “We were a very consistent basketball team from start to finish.”
Key Moments and Steady Success
While there wasn't a single defining moment, the team's consistency was its defining trait. Night in and night out, ELC brought intensity, discipline, and execution—qualities that helped them thrive in pressure-packed environments.
Growth in New Roles
Senior Cara Schiltz stood out as the player who grew most into her role over the season. The only new starter this year, Schiltz provided invaluable defense and chemistry, helping round out an already talented starting five.
Resilience Under Pressure
This was a team forged in fire. With years of shared experience—including deep postseason runs—the girls responded to adversity with poise and unity. Injuries, tough losses, and high-stakes situations were met with veteran composure.
“They’ve been through it all,” Coach Martindale said. “They understood the highs and lows of the game and of a season.”
A Senior Class to Remember
The 2025 senior class left an indelible mark on the program. Their bond, work ethic, and love for each other elevated the entire team. Coach Martindale summed it up best:
“They brought EVERYTHING. They played for each other, supported each other, and cared for one another.”
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter
With the graduation of several key players, next year will mark a rebuilding season for ELC. While expectations shift, the foundation laid by this group sets a strong example for those stepping up.
Offseason Goals
As Coach Martindale prepares for next season, he’ll focus on role identification and continuing to build on the core fundamentals that define ELC basketball: defense, teamwork, and hustle.
Where to Find Stats
Full team and individual stats can be found on Varsity Bound Iowa.
 girls basketball team continued its tradition of excellence behind the leadership of several standout players:
Haylee Stokes, the team's floor general at point guard, led all of Class 3A in scoring with 23.5 points per game. A two-time Class 3A All-Tournament Team selection and former captain, Haylee wrapped up her outstanding high school career as a First Team All-State selection and will continue her journey at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
Rylee Yager, a versatile guard/forward, was also an All-State selection, contributing 15 points and 8 rebounds per game, showcasing her all-around impact on both ends of the court.
Hillary Ruschy added strength inside and out, earning All-State honors for her ability to defend and score in the post.
Cara Schiltz stepped into a bigger role this season and earned Lakes Conference Honorable Mention thanks to her defensive intensity and leadership.
Julissa Smith, though undersized at 5’3”, was a force on the boards, proving that heart and hustle can often outweigh height.
Season Recap: Four Straight Trips to State
ELC once again proved itself as a state tournament staple, making its fourth consecutive trip to Des Moines. The team advanced to the Class 3A semifinals, narrowly falling to eventual state champion Mount Vernon by just one point—a heartbreaking but proud finish for a program that continues to set the standard.
“Another GREAT season for us,” said Head Coach Don Martindale. “We were a very consistent basketball team from start to finish.”
Key Moments and Steady Success
While there wasn't a single defining moment, the team's consistency was its defining trait. Night in and night out, ELC brought intensity, discipline, and execution—qualities that helped them thrive in pressure-packed environments.
Growth in New Roles
Senior Cara Schiltz stood out as the player who grew most into her role over the season. The only new starter this year, Schiltz provided invaluable defense and chemistry, helping round out an already talented starting five.
Resilience Under Pressure
This was a team forged in fire. With years of shared experience—including deep postseason runs—the girls responded to adversity with poise and unity. Injuries, tough losses, and high-stakes situations were met with veteran composure.
“They’ve been through it all,” Coach Martindale said. “They understood the highs and lows of the game and of a season.”
A Senior Class to Remember
The 2025 senior class left an indelible mark on the program. Their bond, work ethic, and love for each other elevated the entire team. Coach Martindale summed it up best:
“They brought EVERYTHING. They played for each other, supported each other, and cared for one another.”
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter
With the graduation of several key players, next year will mark a rebuilding season for ELC. While expectations shift, the foundation laid by this group sets a strong example for those stepping up.
Offseason Goals
As Coach Martindale prepares for next season, he’ll focus on role identification and continuing to build on the core fundamentals that define ELC basketball: defense, teamwork, and hustle.
Where to Find Stats
Full team and individual stats can be found on Varsity Bound Iowa.)
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