Panther Football Receiving National Attention Ahead of Home Opener

Ellsworth Community College football is turning heads early in the 2025 season. Following a dominant 49-0 shutout over Central Lakes in Week 1, the Panthers have received national recognition in the NJCAA rankings, earning votes for the first time since the 2016 preseason poll.

While Ellsworth remains just outside the official Top 15, the early attention signals a potential resurgence for the proud program, now under the leadership of second-year Head Coach Matt White.

"As far as the rankings and receiving votes, I don't really pay too much stock in that," said Coach White. "It's a compliment in some aspects, but our focus is on getting better every week. We've got a long way to go and a lot we can still improve on."

The Panthers will have a chance to build on their fast start this Saturday, August 30, when they host Independence Community College in their home opener. Kickoff is set for 11:00 a.m. at Cadet Field.

The Panthers return home on September 27 to kick off a four-game home stand, highlighted by Panther Homecoming on Saturday, October 18, when they host Dodge City Community College at 11:00 a.m. The extended stretch at Cadet Field promises to bring plenty of excitement to Iowa Falls.

Athletic Director Nate Forsyth praised the early-season work being done by White and his staff:

"Coach White has brought a new level of intensity and discipline to this program. It's exciting to see his efforts paying off on the field, and the national recognition is a great sign of things moving in the right direction."

As Ellsworth builds on its strong start to the season, the Panthers are gaining momentum, and drawing attention, as they prepare for upcoming games.