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Iowa Lakes Baseball to Resume 2026 Season

A baseball team gathers in a circle on a grass field during practice, with a coach in a blue hoodie speaking in the center while players in blue shirts and gray pants listen. The sky is overcast and field lights and trees are visible in the background.
Iowa Lakes head coach Chris Witzke speaks to team.
March 10, 2026

ESTHERVILLE, Iowa— The Iowa Lakes Community College baseball team will return to competition this week, continuing its regular season schedule beginning Friday, March 13 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis against Minnesota North College – Mesabi Range.

The decision to resume play comes after thoughtful conversations among student-athletes, coaches, and college leadership as the team continues to process and heal following the recent bus accident involving the Iowa Lakes baseball program.

"Our student-athletes have shown incredible resilience and strength during an unimaginably difficult time," said Troy Larson, Vice President of Student Services and Athletic Director at Iowa Lakes. "Returning to the field is not about moving on, but about moving forward together. Baseball has always been a place where this team finds connection, purpose, and support from one another and the broader community."

Head Baseball Coach Chris Witzke said the decision to continue the season was made with the well-being of the players at the center.

"Our players love this game, and they love competing for each other," said Witzke. "We are taking things one day at a time, supporting one another, and honoring those impacted by the accident every step of the way. When we take the field, we do it as a family and with the incredible support of the Iowa Lakes community behind us."

As the team returns to competition, Iowa Lakes will continue to honor and remember those impacted by the accident. The baseball program and the college community remain committed to supporting student-athletes and their families while recognizing the strength and unity that continues to carry the team forward.