DENVER - The mass exodus from Denver High School Tuesday morning might leave a vapor trail.

Unlike many state-tournament-qualifying schools, Denver is still scheduled to have classes on the day of its first-round girls basketball game in Des Moines. The Cyclones clash with Cascade at 11:30 a.m.

The Denver school board also opted to hold classes recently during the traditional state wrestling tournament. But, considering this is the Cyclone girls' first trip to state in 10 years, some associated with the basketball program were disappointed by the decision to keep students tethered to their desks in Denver.

Regardless, the Cyclones expect to have numerous supporters in the stands at Wells Fargo Arena.

"A lot of kids are taking out a pre-arranged absence form," explained senior forward Ashley McCready. "Their parents are letting them go down and check us out."

"The Denver community," noted coach Steve Moon, "always comes out and backs their teams, and I'm sure they will on Tuesday."

Been there, done that

Five winters ago, when newly minted North Butler High School advanced to a state girls basketball tournament in its first season in existence, guard Ellen Majewski excitedly noted how a fire engine paraded the team through the main street in Greene.

Five years later - after three subsequent trips to Des Moines and two state titles - the celebration was more subdued before the fifth-ranked Bearcats (21-1) headed to the state capital this week.

"We went wild after the (regional final) game on the bus," senior forward Erika Lindell said, "but that's about it. We're kinda used to it."

"We haven't had any fire-truck rides," added fellow senior Cassie Heuer. "But hopefully we find a reason for a new celebration."

New London calling

AGWSR of Ackley's first-round foe, No. 6 New London (25-0), is clearly a talented and experienced squad. The Tigers' core group of six seniors has now teamed to advance to state-tournament competition in five sports, including volleyball, track, golf and softball. This is the New London seniors' first trip to the state basketball tournament.

"It's amazing, just amazing. We've done it in volleyball and all the other sports. It's amazing to get to go in basketball," New London senior Ashley Blint told the Burlington Hawk Eye.

Several seniors for both AGWSR and New London are familiar with each other. The Cougars beat the Tigers in the state volleyball tournament last November.

Contact Kelly Beaton at (319) 291-1456 or kelly.beaton@wcfcourier.com