At the state basketball tournament each year, the Iowa High School Girls Athletic Union honors the girls state champions from the previous 12 months of action with the annual Parade of Champions, and in 2026, it was well represented by the Tulip City.

Pella’s reigning four-time state cross country title holders, the “CinderPella” softball winners, and Pella Christian’s track and field champs were all part of the festivities during the 5A championship game at the Casey’s Center Friday night.

Additionally, three-time individual champion Marissa Ferebee was also mentioned. She led the Dutch to another dominant year and a fourth consecutive 3A state team title.

The Pella softball team pulled off an improbable run as the #8 seed, taking down the top three 4A pitchers by earned run average to win the school’s first-ever championship in the sport.

Pella Christian’s track and field team dominated the 2A field last spring, winning seven individual titles (100, 200, 400 meters and Sprint Medley, 4×100, 4×200, and 4×400 relays) to win the 2A team championship.