Holly Halstead

Hudson, Sophomore, Track and field

With an ability to run from 100- to 800-meter legs, Halstead has played a major role in the Pirates' relay dominance. Last weekend, she ran a 58-second quarter-mile split as Hudson placed eighth overall and was the top Class 2A team in the Drake Relays' sprint medley. She also ran on the Pirates' 4x400 and 4x100 relays at Drake. "She's a very serious competitor, no matter what she does," Hudson coach Jacinda Canfield said. "She always comes with the attitude of wanting to win and that helps her mentally. She doesn't know how to give up." The returning four-event state track medalist is a 4.0 student and active in FFA, basketball and cross country.

Kaylee Benning

Waverly-Shell Rock, Senior, Soccer

After finishing last season as a member of the state all-tournament team, the center midfielder is off to another strong start this year for Class 1A's fourth-rated Go-Hawks. Benning entered the week with a team-high 15 goals and seven assists. "She's developed into a true leader," coach Scott Schara said. "She has always been a very good soccer player, but this year she's stepped into a leadership role. She's having a great senior year." The midfielder has started on the Go-Hawks' last three state qualifying teams. Her skill on the soccer field has attracted the interest of colleges such as Iowa State, Wartburg and Loras. Benning also lettered in volleyball and basketball.

Alen Sarkic

Waterloo West, Senior, Track and field

In addition to a 400 hurdles time of 56.29 that ranks sixth in Class 4A, Sarkic has also been a valuable member of the Wahawks' relays. The senior led off West's 4x400 relay that finished third Saturday at the Drake Relays. He also ran on the West 4x200 and medley relays at Drake. "Alen is one of the toughest athletes we have on the team," Wahawks coach Matt MacKenzie noted. "He has battled some injuries over the last couple of years, but he never lets it slow him down." Sarkic - a member of the 4x400 team that finished fourth at state last season - is also involved in cross country. He plans to attended UNI this fall and join the Panthers' track and field program.

Ellie Tallakson

NU High, Senior, Tennis

Patience and plenty of court savvy have allowed Tallakson to compile a successful record in her second season at the No. 1 singles position. The four-year letterwinner qualified for state in singles last year and is off to a 4-1 start this season. "I think her work ethic is just above and beyond a lot of the girls," NU High coach Allison Neumann said. "She'll do anything it takes to win. She changes her game, and as long as she can win, she'll be satisfied." Tallakson is well-rounded outside of tennis. The four-time academic all-conference selection also plays volleyball. She's an accomplished dancer who plans to attend the University of Iowa and study physical therapy.

Paige Hersom

Cedar Falls, Senior, Track and field

The Tigers' four-year state qualifier is a reliable source of points for her team in the middle distance races. Hersom has helped Cedar Falls win numerous 4x800 and 4x400 relays this season. She also has won the open 800 several times, including an effort in the Tiger Invitational that highlighted Cedar Falls' team title. "Paige has been one of our most consistent performers over the last four years," coach Troy Becker noted. "Her great work ethic and determination has helped her earn a spot in our track and field Hall of Fame. … Paige is a great example of how hard work can help you accomplish great things." Hersom finished third in the 4x800 at state last season.

Ben Kerns

Oelwein, Senior, Golf

A three-time all-conference golfer, Kerns has consistently found his way to the top of the leaderboard this season. He has been either medalist or runner-up medalist in four of Oelwein's first five meets. "Ben works on his game during the offseason," coach Steve Schwemm noted. "He is a positive role model who leads by example. Ben is the type of person every coach would like on their team. Ben has great focus and does not let one bad hole ruin his round." Kerns is also an all-conference basketball player and was second team all-district in football. The honor roll student plans to attend Luther College and try out for the golf team this fall.

Katie Conway

Waterloo Columbus, Junior, Soccer

The midfielder has been an offensive leader for a Sailors' team that is off to a 7-1 start. "Katie is a standout midfielder and forward who plays a specific way every time. She never gives up," coach Jose Infante noted. "Her speed and ball control has helped our team achieve its goals. Katie can play anywhere on the field and offers an offensive treat every time." Conway received WaMaC and all-metro honorable mention last season. She's been playing soccer since age 7 and is also active in volleyball and tennis.

Maria Wagenhofer

Waterloo West, Sophomore, Soccer

In just her second season of prep soccer, Wagenhofer has already demonstrated an ability to play beyond her age. According to Wahawks' coach Sue Rink, the center midfielder and center back is capable of withstanding the amount of pressure her positions require. "She keeps the ball moving, using her teammates," Rink noted. "She is not afraid to draw in three or four defenders. … The more she is under pressure, the higher her abilities go. … She has what it takes to be a true athlete: desire, determination and dedication." Wagenhofer is a 4.0 student who is active in band and her local church youth group. She has been a CVYSA player for 11 years, playing on competitive teams for the last five.