Spin doctor

Matthew Dickinson/West Branch Times West Branch’s Lander Malloy pitches during the Bears’ Monday night road game against Monticello.

The West Branch girls’ soccer program had three members earn All-River Valley Conference recognition.

Girls’ soccer records best season to date
by Matthew Dickinson, sports editor · Sports · June 11, 2025
In a brief June 1 ceremony held in the West Branch High School commons, the Bears’ girls’ soccer team reflected on a breakthrough 6-7-1 season that was one of the best in program history.

High-scoring game goes to West Branch
by Matthew Dickinson, sports editor · Sports · June 11, 2025
After battling back from an early four-run deficit to force extra innings Monday night at Monticello, the West Branch softball team still had work to do for a win.

Shocker: Miller to leave boys’ soccer
by Matthew Dickinson, sports editor · Sports · June 11, 2025
In a stunning development, West Branch boys’ soccer Head Coach Ted Miller announced that he would step down from the role after a highly successful run with the program at the team’s June 4 awards ceremony.

Strong pitching cannot overcome Camanche
by Matthew Dickinson, sports editor · Sports · June 11, 2025
Despite some strong pitching and some great offensive opportunities, the West Branch baseball team fell 5-2 Friday night at home in a tough-luck setback against Camanche.

Bears notch first win with new coach
by Matthew Dickinson, sports editor · Sports · June 04, 2025
The West Branch baseball team collected its first win of the season — and the first career win for new Head Coach Eric Alvarez — after outlasting Lisbon 4-3 May 28 at home.

Softball team defeats No. 14 Central City
by Matthew Dickinson, sports editor · Sports · June 04, 2025
The West Branch softball team collected its first win of the season May 28 at home, holding off a late rally by Class 1A No. 14 Central City to preserve a 7-4 victory.

Sophomore Smith earns 13th at state golf
by Matthew Dickinson, sports editor · Sports · June 04, 2025
West Branch sophomore McGavin Smith capped off a memorable sophomore season with a 13th-place finish in the Class 2A state golf tournament with a 78-75 153 May 27-28 at Gates Park Golf Course in Waterloo.

New head coach building up young team
by Matthew Dickinson, sports editor · Sports · June 04, 2025
The West Branch baseball team has a new coach in Eric Alvarez and a goal to improve while replacing several key contributors from last season.

Racers mark victories, personal gains
by Matthew Dickinson, sports editor · Sports · June 04, 2025
The West Branch girls’ track team celebrated success and program milestones at its May 18 awards ceremony held at the Swisher residence.

West Branch falls in Substate semifinals
by Gregory Norfleet · Sports · June 04, 2025
West Branch closed out its season in the Substate 7 semifinals on May 27, falling to Pella Christian, 5-1.

Young, but experienced softball team
by Matthew Dickinson, sports editor · Sports · June 04, 2025
A young but experienced West Branch softball squad looks to take the next step this season.