Des Moines, Iowa — Jim Eekhoff ended his high school coaching career with his record 8th title after Western Christian defeated Cascade 42-35.
Cascade would jump out to an early 10-5 lead, but Western Christian would tie things up at 10-10 heading into the 2nd quarter. In the low scoring 2nd quarter, Western Christian would take the lead heading into halftime 17-14. Western extended their lead in the 2nd half. Heading into the final 8 minutes, Western would lead 32-25. Cascade would pull to within 2 early in the 4th quarter but Western Christian would pull away and come away victorious 42-35.
Western Christian had 2 players in double figures. Jesse Jansma had a team high 15 points. Josh Van Lingen added 10 points. The Cougars were led by Devin Green with a game high 17 points.
Class 2A Champion Western Christian ends their year at 25-2. Cascade’s season ends at 22-4.
Class 2-A Farm Bureau All-Tournament Team
Jesse Jansma Western Christian, Hull
Kyle Schepanski Anamosa
Trace Hoffman Cascade, Western Dubuque
Levi Jungling Pella Christian
Devin Green Cascade, Western Dubuque
Team Captain: Josh Van Lingen Western Christian, Hull
Farm Bureau – IHSAA Board of Control Class 2-A Sportsmanship Award went to Western Christian
It was a record setting night for the Wolfpack and their head coach. Jim Eekhoff surpassed the record seven titles he shared with the late Paul Moon, whose coaching career began at old Davenport High School in 1928.
In addition to the eight state basketball titles he directed Western Christian’s boys cross country team to a state championship in 1992. He’s also coached baseball, golf and assisted with the track program. His earlier stops in education were at a Christian school in Oskaloosa, Iowa, and then at Sheldon Christian, a feeder program for Western.
Western Christian guard Joey Horstman says the seniors wanted to go out on top with their coach.
Senior Josh VanLingen says Eekhoff’s retirement and winning the title came with mixed emotions.
Looking forward Junior Jesse Jansma admits it will be big adjustment to have a new coach next year.
Jim Eekhoff talked about the decision to retire from coaching.
In 34 seasons at Western Christian Eekhoff and his teams have compiled a sterling 681-143 record . The Wolfpack are 36-12 in state tournament games under Eekhoff
