May-Hay girls won't stop quest despite Wolfpack roadblocks

Maywood-Hayes Center freshman Caylie Softley fires a fast-break lead pass against Elgin Public/Pope John at Kearney High School Friday evening.

R.B. Headley/McCook Gazette

KEARNEY, Neb. — Senior Ellie Broz’s brilliant 12-point, eight-rebound effort was a reason for Maywood-Hayes Center fans to cheer and cry Friday night at Kearney High.

Broz helped May-Hay recover from a cold shooting start and challenge Elgin Public/Pope John throughout their D1-7 district championship game.

The Wolves closed within one baset of catching these Wolfpack, but E.P.P.J. prevailed again 51-44.

Maywood-Hayes Center sophomore Kesli Cox lofting a tough shot during the D1-7 district final Friday night at Kearney High.

R.B. Headley/McCook Gazette

Just like 2023, they advance into the Class D-1 state tournament while May-Hay’s girls (21-3 final record) fell just one win short.

“Ellie gave us great effort and great leadership tonight, just as she has all season,” coach Kim Stengel said.

Yet only one graduating senior shows the Wolves aren’t going anywhere as far as state tournament contenders.

They’ll plan on being back in this district finals again during 2025 and hopefully finish that trek into Lincoln for state tourney play.

“We just have to execute some things a little bit better,” coach Stengel observed. “We definitely have the talent.”

Ellie Broz and sophomore Karissa Stengel both scored 12 points to keep May-Hay in contention Friday night.

The Wolves kept chasing their goals despite not making a field goal until nearly six minutes had been played.

Junior Aubrey Broz added eight points including two huge three-point shots.

Juniors Kesli Cox, Reagan Stengel and freshman Caylie Softely finished with four points each. The E.P.P.J. Wolfpack (22-2) advance into state Thursday vs. Southern Valley.