2022 marks the 50th anniversary of Title IX, the landmark civil rights legislation that ushered in the modern era of women’s athletics. These women were truly trailblazers in this endeavor. Coach Leona Penner pioneered the East girls basketball program in 1975, and in 1977 she led her Spartans to the title in the first-ever Nebraska State Girls Basketball Tournament. This squad capped off an undefeated 20-0 season with a 51-47 triumph over Omaha Burke in the state finals—extending a winning streak that grew to 48 games over three years.

More impressive, all these women went on to college and many continued their athletic careers there. They became teacher, lawyer, author, scientist, businessperson, police officer, veterinarian. Perhaps team member Barb Hart Baumert said it best: “I’m so proud of my 1977 teammates and coaches for pursuing something in a day when it wasn't cool to pursue athletics. It is because of women like this that high school girls today have many of the opportunities they enjoy.”