Three Pella High School athletes will continue their athletic careers close to home. Nathan Vander Waal, Max Lauman, and Brody Ferrell are heading to Central College this fall.

Nathan Vander Waal – Cross Country

Nathan is one of the most accomplished cross country athletes in Pella High School history. He’s a two-time All-State finisher, including a 3rd place individual finish on the 2023 runner-up Dutch and 9th place result for the 2022 state champions. Vander Waal has also qualified for the state track meet in consecutive seasons, as part of the 2023 champions (4×800 relay) and 2022 state 2nd place team (3200 meters).

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Max Lauman – Soccer

Max was a 2023 First Team All-State Soccer selection from the Iowa High School Soccer Coaches Association and started in 21 games for the 2022 Pella state runners-up. Lauman is a defender and expects to continue that role again this spring in green and white and then this fall for Central.

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Brody Ferrell – Tennis

Brody has worked his way to near the top of the JV rotation for the dominate Pella boys tennis program, and has a shot at earning varsity opportunities in 2024. Brody is the son of Central Head Coach Ryun Ferrell.