HASTINGS, Neb. (KSNB) - Grand Island Central Catholic’s rise to the top of Class C2 started three years ago when they hired Head Coach Jeff Ashby. Ashby brought over 30 years of coaching experience to the Crusaders program.

He inherited a winless program. After one year, the team improved to 2-7. In his second year, GICC went 6-3. But in 2025, the Ashby-led Crusaders started the season 5-0.

“It’s kind of just nice to see all of our improvement,” senior Jack Alberts said. “2-7 wasn’t really good but as the years have gone by, its been fun to see us improve and get better.”

The Crusaders dropped their last two games of the season last year to Boone Central and St. Paul. Those two teams close out GICC’s season again this year. The Crusaders are looking to keep their momentum up for a playo

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