Inside Iowa Athletics

As the 2026 football season draws closer, excitement continues to build around Iowa Athletics. The weekend of the Hawkeyes' season opener against Northern Illinois will also celebrate some of the greatest student-athletes in school history as seven Hawkeye legends are inducted into the Iowa Letterwinners Hall of Fame.This week's Fight for Iowa Podcast shines the spotlight on one of the most decorated wrestlers to ever wear the Black and Gold, Matt McDonough. A two-time NCAA Champion at 125 pounds, three-time Big Ten Champion, and four-time All-American, McDonough finished his remarkable career with a 122-9 record while becoming one of the defining competitors of the Tom Brands era.In a candid conversation with Gary Dolphin, McDonough reflects on the work ethic and discipline that fueled his success, the values instilled by his parents, balancing excellence in the classroom with elite competition, and why consistency—not talent—became the foundation of his career. He also shares what it means to be recognized with induction into the Iowa Letterwinners Hall of Fame.Listen as one of Iowa wrestling's all-time greats looks back on the journey that earned him a lasting place in Hawkeye history.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Fight for Iowa, Gary Dolphin catches up with former Hawkeye point guard Bennett Stirtz as he begins his NBA journey with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Stirtz discusses life as a first-round draft pick, the whirlwind of draft night, adjusting to the professional game, and his standout performances in NBA Summer League. He also shares what he's focused on as he prepares for training camp and what it means to represent Iowa at the next level. Plus, Dolphin looks at the growing Hawkeye presence in Oklahoma City, where Stirtz is joined by former Iowa standouts Payton Sandfort and Josh Dix as they chase NBA roster spots with the Thunder.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Fight for Iowa, Gary Dolphin sits down with new Iowa running backs coach Jay Norvell. A Hawkeye All-American, 1985 team MVP, and one of the most experienced coaches in college football, Norvell shares the journey that brought him back to Iowa City more than 40 years after arriving as a player alongside Kirk Ferentz. He discusses why returning to his alma mater was the right move, the transition from offensive analyst to running backs coach, and the opportunity to mentor a talented Hawkeye backfield led by Kamari Moulton. Norvell also reflects on his playing days under Hayden Fry, his years as a head coach, and his excitement for the future of Iowa Football as the Hawkeyes prepare to open the 2026 season at Kinnick Stadium.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on the Fight for Iowa podcast, Gary Dolphin takes you to Okoboji for the Boji Legends Golf Tournament, where Hawkeye greats reunited to support two incredible causes.Chuck Long reflects on the impact of giving back, the friendships that continue decades after Iowa's unforgettable 1985 Big Ten championship season, and why supporting children with disabilities remains one of his life's greatest passions.Former Hawkeye offensive lineman Kelly O'Brien looks back on blocking for one of the greatest offenses in Iowa football history and explains why these annual reunions are a true "fountain of youth."Former Iowa basketball standout Zach McCabe discusses the lifelong relationships built during his Hawkeye career, the lessons he carried into the business world, and life after basketball as a successful entrepreneur.Happy Fourth of July, and thank you for listening to the Fight for Iowa podcast. Go Hawks!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on the Fight for Iowa Podcast, Gary Dolphin highlights a memorable finish to the Hawkeyes' track and field season at the NCAA Championships in Eugene, Oregon. Iowa qualified in nine events and brought home multiple All-America performances, led by junior thrower Ryan Johnson, who earned First Team All-America honors for the second consecutive year with a third-place finish in the hammer throw after capturing the NCAA indoor weight throw title earlier this season.Johnson joins the podcast to discuss his championship season, the family atmosphere within the program, and the impact of Head Coach Joey Woody and Associate Head Coach Ray Robinson on his development.Dolph also recaps historic performances from Iowa's men's and women's 4x400-meter relay teams. The women's quartet of Alivia Williams, Damaris Mutunga, Princess Uche and Chioma Nwachukwu shattered the school record on their way to a fifth-place All-America finish, while the men's team of David Akhalu, Zidane Brown, Tyrese Miller and Landon Fontenot raced from the 19th seed to a remarkable fifth-place finish with a season-best time.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Hawkeyes have added three talented transfers to help fuel the next chapter of Iowa Women's Basketball, and two of them join this week's Fight for Iowa Podcast.Former Georgia standout Dani Carnegie and veteran defender Amari Whiting discuss what led them to Iowa, their first impressions of Iowa City, and why playing for Jan Jensen made the Hawkeyes the right fit.Carnegie, a First Team All-SEC selection who averaged 18 points per game last season, reunites with former Georgia teammate Chit-Chat Wright and brings a dynamic scoring presence to Iowa's backcourt. Whiting arrives with a reputation as a fearless defender and high-IQ player after stops at Oklahoma State and BYU.The pair share their early experiences on campus, expectations for the upcoming season, and excitement about playing in front of the passionate fans at Carver-Hawkeye Arena.Plus, a look at Iowa's third transfer addition, former Georgia Bulldog Jocelyn Faison, as the Hawkeyes continue building a roster ready to compete in the Big Ten.Listen as the newest Hawkeyes begin their journey in black and gold. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Summer conditioning is underway in Iowa City, and for head coach Kirk Ferentz, the next four weeks may be among the most important of the offseason. After losing nearly 30 players to graduation, the NFL and the transfer portal, the Hawkeyes have welcomed an equally large incoming class of freshmen and transfers as Ferentz navigates the realities of college football's year-round roster management era.This week on Fight for Iowa, Ferentz discusses the challenges and opportunities that come with rebuilding a roster, how the expanded calendar has changed player development, and why much of the groundwork for the 2026 season is already being laid before fall camp even begins.We also catch up with All-Big Ten safety Zach Lutmer. The Rock Rapids native returns after a standout junior season that included 70 tackles, three interceptions, a touchdown return, a sack and a fumble recovery. Lutmer helped lead a Hawkeye defense that finished among the nation's best and now steps into an even larger leadership role following the departures of Xavier Nwankpa and Koen Entringer.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on the Fight for Iowa podcast, we step onto the track with one of the most recognizable voices in the sport — legendary track and field announcer Mike Jay. From the Iowa High School State Track & Field Championships to the Drake Relays, NCAA Championships and Olympic Trials, Jay's voice has become synonymous with some of the sport's biggest moments.A Columbus Junction native, Jay has spent decades around the sport as a runner, coach and elite announcer, earning national recognition in 2014 as the Track & Field Writers of America's top track announcer. But beyond the microphone, Jay's passion is rooted in the athletes, families and communities that make track and field special.In this episode, Jay shares stories from a lifetime in the sport, what makes Iowa track unique, and how he's continuing to give back through the Track Guy Foundation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With a roster reshaped by NFL departures, graduation and the transfer portal, the 2026 Hawkeye football team enters a new era with plenty of opportunity across all three phases of the game. This week on Fight for Iowa, head coach Kirk Ferentz discusses the importance of integrating nearly 30 new players into the program as Iowa prepares for summer workouts and the start of another demanding Big Ten season.We take a closer look at the Hawkeyes' defensive rebuild, where longtime defensive line coach Kelvin Bell is tasked with developing the next wave of talent up front following the departures of Aaron Graves, Max Llewellyn and Ethan Hurkett. Bell shares his thoughts on the progress made during spring practice and the mentality of Iowa's young defensive front.Linebacker Jayden Montgomery reflects on stepping into a larger leadership role after learning from Hawkeye greats like Jay Higgins, while rising sophomore Cam Buffington talks about the growth of Iowa's young linebacker group and the culture that continues to produce standout defenders.Plus, All-Big Ten defensive back Zach Lutmer discusses his breakout season, the possibility of handling kick return duties this fall, and the excitement building for a September packed with games at Kinnick Stadium.It's another inside look at the players and coaches shaping the future of Iowa football — this week on Fight for Iowa.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on the Fight for Iowa podcast, Gary Dolphin visits with new Hawkeye guard Ty'Reek Coleman, the talented transfer from Illinois State who helped lead the Redbirds to the NIT title game during an impressive freshman season. Coleman discusses his relationship with Ben McCollum, why Iowa felt like the right fit, and what excites him most about joining the Hawkeyes.Dolph also shares Coach McCollum's thoughts on Iowa's two transfer portal additions — Coleman and 7-foot-3 center Andrew McKeever — as the Hawkeyes continue building their roster for next season. Plus, a look at Iowa's newly released Big Ten schedule and the matchups awaiting the Hawkeyes this winter.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on the Fight for Iowa Podcast, Gary Dolphin sits down with new Hawkeye center Andrew McKeever after his commitment to Iowa Basketball. The 7'3 transfer from Saint Mary's discusses why Iowa was his first and only visit, what sold him on Coach Ben McCollum and the Hawkeye offense, and how the transfer portal process shaped his decision.McKeever talks about his rebounding mentality, player development, and his excitement to arrive in Iowa City this June. Plus, hear why the West Coast Conference's leading rebounder believes Iowa is the perfect fit as he prepares for his next step in college basketball.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Iowa basketball standout Bennett Stirtz headlines this week's show after being named the recipient of the Chris Street Award, honoring the Hawkeye who best exemplifies passion, toughness, and competitive spirit. The First Team All-Big Ten selection capped a remarkable season—averaging 20 points and leading Iowa to its first Elite Eight since 1987—while cementing his place among the program's all-time single-season scoring leaders. Dolph sits down with Stirtz to reflect on his journey from Northwest Missouri State to a historic run in Iowa City and what lies ahead with the NBA Draft approaching.On the football side, spring practice has wrapped as the Hawkeyes turn toward offseason development and preparation for fall camp. A major storyline: replacing standout specialists. New kicker Eli Ozick, a transfer from North Dakota State, discusses adjusting to Iowa and building momentum after an All-American season. Plus, hear from Australian punter Boston Everett as he embraces the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of recent Hawkeye greats, alongside competition from in-state standout Tanner Philpott.It's a packed episode featuring award winners, rising stars, and a look ahead to the next chapter of Hawkeye football.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

owa Football wraps up spring practice this Saturday with an open workout at Kinnick Stadium, giving fans a chance to get an early look at the 2026 Hawkeyes.Head Coach Kirk Ferentz and his staff are navigating significant roster turnover following the largest graduating class in program history, with 30 new players working into the mix this spring. Several position battles remain ongoing, including at quarterback where transfers Jeremy Hecklinski and Hank Brown continue to split reps.The Hawkeyes are reloading along both the offensive and defensive lines, while a deep running back group returns after a strong 2025 season. Kamari Moulton leads a talented backfield alongside Xavier Williams, Nathan McNeil, and South Dakota transfer Lendon Phillips, as Iowa continues to emphasize a physical run game under offensive coordinator Tim Lester.This week's episode also features interviews with defensive lineman Kenneth Merriwether, pass rusher Iose Epenesa, and running back Kamari Moulton.Spring answers are coming into focus—but several key decisions will carry into fall camp.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on the Fight for Iowa Podcast, Gary Dolphin previews the NCAA Women's Gymnastics Championships and Iowa's presence on the national stage.Sophomore standout Oralee Tran is set to compete for a national title on the uneven bars after scoring a perfect 10 at regionals. Tran becomes the first Hawkeye to qualify on bars since 2003 and brings international experience from the Paris Olympics and Pan Am Games.Dolph sits down with Tran and head coach Jen Llewellyn to discuss her journey, preparation, and mindset heading into nationals.Plus, a look at Iowa's season finish, Llewellyn's Coach of the Year honors, and what's ahead for the program.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Spring football has arrived for the Iowa Hawkeyes, bringing one of the most significant roster overhauls in program history. With 102 players in camp and 27 seniors to replace, Kirk Ferentz and his staff are building the foundation for 2026.This episode breaks down the quarterback competition between Hank Brown and Jeremy Hecklinski, examines key departures to the NFL, and highlights a deep and talented running back room.Plus, hear from Coach Ferentz as Iowa continues spring practice and prepares for the season ahead.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's Fight for Iowa podcast, Gary Dolphin sits down with new Iowa soccer head coach Dean Ward. The Birmingham, England native brings nearly two decades of coaching experience to Iowa City after leading Xavier to 31 wins over the past two seasons, including a 2025 Big East Tournament title and an NCAA Round of 32 appearance.Ward inherits a strong Hawkeye program coming off a 12-5-4 season, a third-place Big Ten finish, and a trip to the NCAA Tournament second round. With standout returners Sofia Bush, Millie Greer, and Iba Oching, plus one of the nation's top freshman classes, Iowa looks poised to build on its No. 21 national ranking.Ward discusses his coaching philosophy, similarities with former head coach Dave Dianni, and his vision for a more aggressive attacking style. Plus, a look ahead to the Hawkeyes' spring exhibition matchup against Iowa State.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Hawkeyes make their 30th NCAA Tournament appearance—and first since 2022—squaring off with Clemson in an 8/9 matchup Friday in Tampa. Led by senior guard Bennet Stirtz, who averaged 22 points per game in Big Ten play, Iowa enters March with momentum after a 21-win season in one of the nation's toughest conferences.Clemson counters with a deep, balanced roster and All-ACC forward RJ Godfrey, but will be without starting center Carter Welling due to injury. With both teams known for their defense, this matchup sets up as one of the most competitive games of the opening round—with a potential showdown against top-seeded Florida looming.We hear from head coach Ben McCollum and floor leader Bennett Stirtz as the Hawkeyes prepare for Friday's tip.Plus, Iowa Women's Basketball opens NCAA Tournament play in Iowa City as a No. 2 seed, hosting Fairleigh Dickinson at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. Head coach Jan Jensen, Kylie Feuerbach, and a veteran Hawkeye squad look to make another deep March run on their home floor.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 03-09-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 03-09-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tom Brands joins the Fight for Iowa Podcast as the Hawkeyes prepare for the Big Ten Wrestling Championships. The Iowa head coach breaks down the team's mindset heading into the postseason, discusses key wrestlers and matchups to watch, and explains what it will take for the Hawkeyes to compete for a conference title. Brands also shares insight into Iowa's preparation, the intensity of the Big Ten tournament, and how the Hawkeyes are positioning themselves for the road to the NCAA Championships.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 03-02-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 03-02-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 02-23-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 02-23-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 02-18-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 02-18-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on the Fight for Iowa Podcast, Dolph sits down with the newest voice in the Hawkeye coaching room — Chris Polizzi, Iowa's Special Teams Coordinator. Fresh off earning the role leading one of the most vital (and often game-deciding) phases of football, Polizzi opens up about stepping into his new position for the Hawkeyes and the mindset he brings to the job. With two decades of coaching experience at the collegiate level — including stops at Tulsa, UT-Martin, UCLA, Utah, Western Carolina, Tennessee Tech, and previous roles with Iowa — Chris offers insight into what it takes to coach at the highest levels of college football and how special teams fit into the Hawkeyes' identity.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 02-09-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 02-09-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 02-02-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 02-02-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Iowa Swimming and Diving celebrates Senior Night this Friday as the Hawkeyes host St. Thomas at the Campus Wellness and Recreation Center.Iowa enters the meet 3–3 overall and 2–2 in Big Ten duals, coming off big wins over Illinois and Nebraska in what has been a record-setting season under head coach Nathan Mundt and diving coach Todd Waikel.Senior diver Lainey Woodward and junior standout Olivia Swalley join this week's Fight for Iowa podcast. Woodward discusses her comeback from injury and what Senior Night means to a class that helped guide the program through difficult early years. Swalley reflects on a season that's seen her lead the team in five events and rewrite the record book.Plus, a look ahead at a bright future: freshman Payton Flowers' pool record in the 50 free, and a Hawkeye Invitational that produced 19 program top-10 times, three champions, and three school records.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 01-26-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 01-26-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Gary Dolphin welcomes Iowa men's basketball assistant coaches Bryston Williams and Josh Sash to Fight for Iowa this week for a powerful, personal conversation. The two discuss their individual journeys into coaching, their transition to Iowa, and what it's like working for head coach Ben McCollum. Josh also reflects on the life and legacy of his late brother, former Hawkeye All-American safety Tyler Sash, and how that connection to Iowa continues to shape him today.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 01-19-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 01-19-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 01-12-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jenson 01-12-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 01-07-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jenson 1-07-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Tampa, Gary Dolphin and former Hawkeye great Pat Angerer wrap up Bowl Week coverage on the Fight for IowaBowl Preview Show, presented by Hills Bank, with a final look ahead to Iowa vs. Vanderbilt in the 2025 ReliaQuest Bowl. The episode focuses on final preparations, mindset, and what will matter most when the Hawkeyes take the field.This final pregame show features interviews with Hawkeyes Max Llewellyn and Deshaun Lee, offering player perspective on Bowl Week, team chemistry, and the opportunity to finish the season strong on the national stage in Tampa.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.