Vote for Ames Tribune female Athlete of the Week for Sept. 20-26

During the week of September 20-26, high school female athletes from the Ames area showcased impressive performances in various sports. Three nominees emerged for the Ames Tribune's Female Athlete of the Week award.

Hailey Estrem, a senior from Ballard, demonstrated exceptional skills on the volleyball court. Despite her team's loss to ADM in a five-set match, Estrem delivered an outstanding performance. She recorded 48 assists, averaging 9.6 per set, and contributed 13 digs, along with 33 of 34 successful serves, including one ace. Estrem also provided 96 digs and 11 kills in other matches, helping Ballard secure a 4-1 record at the Nevada Invitational.

Maddi Lucas from Roland-Story was a dominant force in middle hitter position for the 3A No. 10 team. In a thrilling sweep against Grand View Christian, Lucas secured eight kills with a 29.4% efficiency. She showcased her defensive prowess by recording four solo blocks. Lucas's consistent strong performance earned her the nomination for the Female Athlete of the Week.

Ellie McCorkle, an Ames resident, made waves in the swimming and diving world. At the Little Cyclone girls swimming and diving meet, she set a new state record by winning the 200-yard freestyle with a time of 1 minute, 54.09 seconds. Her swift time of 14.48 seconds ahead of the competition secured her a win.

Emma Stanley, another Ames contender, highlighted her cross country prowess. She placed fifth in the varsity girls race at the Jim Boughton Invitational in Dubuque, completing the 5-kilometer course in 18 minutes, 50.9 seconds. Her perseverance and determination on the track did not go unnoticed.

These three extraordinary athletes from the Ames area exemplified remarkable talent and dedication in their respective sports. The Ames Tribune readers will now have the opportunity to vote and select the ultimate Female Athlete of the Week, whose name will be announced at the end of the week.