Rustlers Fight Their Way Through Region 9 Tournament, Fall Short in Final Game

The Central Wyoming College women’s volleyball team faced a challenging slate of opponents at the Region 9 Volleyball Tournament held at Western Nebraska Community College. The tournament saw the team compete against several strong contenders, and ultimately the Rustlers were one win away from a NJCAA National Tournament berth.

The Rustlers opened the tournament with a tough match against North Platte Community College, losing in straight sets 0-3 with set scores of 16-25, 20-25, and 22-25. Despite a rocky start, the Rustlers quickly bounced back with consecutive victories. They defeated Gillette Community College 3-1 with set scores of 24-26, 25-15, 25-23, and a dominant 25-13 in the fourth set. Continuing their winning streak, they secured wins against Western Nebraska Community College (3-0), Laramie Community College (3-0), and narrowly missed a win against Casper College (2-3) with sets finishing at 22-25, 25-18, 18-25, 25-18, and a close 13-15 in the final set. The loss against Casper effectively ended their run in the tournament and capped off CWC’s 2025 season.

Standout players included Presley Ryan who amassed impressive kill counts throughout the tournament, topping at 16 kills in matches against Laramie and Casper. Hallie Johnson also shined with her defensive prowess, recording a high of 35 digs against Casper College. The team’s synchronized play was epitomized by Quincey Mathews who set up numerous plays, culminating in 47 assists against Casper.

Coach Davis and the players reflected on both the challenges and the successes of the tournament. Coach Davis emphasized the team’s growth and persistence, while Presley Ryan shared her pride in the team’s achievements. These sentiments encapsulate a season of hard-fought games and a resilient team spirit.

Men’s Basketball Triumphs Over Rocky Mountain College JV in First Home Game

The Central Wyoming College Rustlers showcased a commanding performance in their recent basketball game against Rocky Mountain College JV on November 7, at the Rustler Gym. This victory marks a significant moment in their season as the Rustlers continue to refine their strategies and gameplay.

The game opened with the Rustlers quickly taking the lead, guided by Isaac Patik who scored the first basket of the evening. Early in the game, Julian Ormond boosted the team’s score with a 3-pointer, helping the Rustlers to a 5-point lead. By the end of the first half, the Rustlers were ahead with a score of 47-28, primarily through contributions from multiple players including a key three-pointer by Luke Danielson.

During the second half, the Rustlers maintained control through robust defense and effective scoring, extending their lead further to 66-39. Isaac Patik was notable for his proficiency in free throws during this quarter. The final stretch of the game saw sustained dominance by the Rustlers, with Connor Davidson standing out through his scoring and defensive plays. The game concluded with a comfortable win for the Rustlers, with a final score of 81-61.

Isaac Patik was the top scorer with 20 points, and other significant contributions came from Connor Davidson and Julian Ormond. The team’s strengths were evident in their strong defensive plays and consistent scoring. Looking ahead, the Rustlers will face Northeastern Junior College in Casper, WY, on November 14. With a current record of 1-3, the team is keen to build on this win and continue their efforts to climb up the rankings.

Women’s Basketball Secures Victory Over Utah State Eastern in a Thrilling Home Game

In a riveting basketball encounter at Riverton, WY, on November 7, the Central Wyoming College Rustlers women’s team clinched a significant 62-51 victory against Utah State Eastern. The Rustlers, backed by stellar performances from Laura Ring and Sophie Wilkinson, showcased strong resilience and strategic play to overturn an initial deficit.

The game commenced with a challenging first period where Utah State Eastern took an early lead, courtesy of Addison Tanner’s opening basket. Central Wyoming’s struggle with shooting seemed evident as Utah State Eastern seized an early advantage, leading 13-8 by the end of the period. Laura Ring made her presence felt with critical three-point shots, but the first half concluded with the Rustlers trailing 24-26.

Momentum shifted in the ensuing periods as Central Wyoming College found their stride. The third quarter was marked by Sophie Wilkinson‘s dominating interior play, pushing the Rustlers to a marginal lead of 40-41. By the final period, the Rustlers had fully taken control, primarily through Wilkinson’s crucial inside presence and free throws. The team’s strength in the second half, coupled with solid defense, paved the way for their triumphant 62-51 finale.

Key contributors to the victory included Laura Ring, who not only topped the charts with 19 points and 9 rebounds but also provided valuable assists. Sophie Wilkinson led the scoring with 18 points, proving instrumental in the game’s pivotal moments. Supporting roles from Lexie Kesler and Bella Sika, who collectively added essential points and assists, were also crucial to the win.

Looking ahead, the Central Wyoming College Rustlers have their eyes set on continuing their winning streak as they face Colorado Northwestern Community College at home on November 11, at 5:30 PM. With a current season record of 2-1, the Rustlers seem well-positioned for upcoming challenges in their schedule.

Rustlers Shine at NJCAA Cross Country National Championships

The Central Wyoming College Cross Country program capped off its season with a strong showing at the NJCAA Cross Country National Championships in Fort Dodge, Iowa, on Saturday, November 8.

The Rustlers were represented by three freshman runners—two on the women’s side in the 5000M race and one on the men’s side in the 8000M race—all of whom posted competitive times on the national stage.

Women’s Division I 5000M Highlights

The CWC women’s team saw both of its athletes, Isabelle Murdock and Georgeanne Moss, finish in the top 150 of the national field.

• Isabelle Murdock led the Rustlers with a 146th place finish, clocking in at 23:25.7. Murdock earned a “PR” (Personal Record) designation next to her name, signifying her excellent performance and a new career best time.
• Georgeanne Moss followed closely behind, securing 148th place with a time of 23:33.5. Moss also ran a superb race, earning a “PR” for her efforts.

These results are particularly impressive for the two freshmen, reflecting the strong foundation and bright future of the CWC women’s program.

Men’s Division I 8000M Highlight

On the men’s side, Region 9 Champion Davian Spoonhunter represented the Rustlers with a remarkable finish in the 8K race.

• Davian Spoonhunter finished in 127th place with a time of 28:44.6. Spoonhunter’s performance placed him among the nation’s best and concluded a phenomenal freshman campaign that saw him capture a regional individual title just weeks prior.