Fight for Iowa – The Official Podcast of Iowa Athletics

This week on the Fight for Iowa Podcast, Gary Dolphin sits down with new Hawkeye center Andrew McKeever after his commitment to Iowa Basketball. The 7’3 transfer from Saint Mary's discusses why Iowa was his first and only visit, what sold him on Coach Ben McCollum and the Hawkeye offense, and how the transfer portal process shaped his decision.McKeever talks about his rebounding mentality, player development, and his excitement to arrive in Iowa City this June. Plus, hear why the West Coast Conference’s leading rebounder believes Iowa is the perfect fit as he prepares for his next step in college basketball.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Iowa basketball standout Bennett Stirtz headlines this week’s show after being named the recipient of the Chris Street Award, honoring the Hawkeye who best exemplifies passion, toughness, and competitive spirit. The First Team All-Big Ten selection capped a remarkable season—averaging 20 points and leading Iowa to its first Elite Eight since 1987—while cementing his place among the program’s all-time single-season scoring leaders. Dolph sits down with Stirtz to reflect on his journey from Northwest Missouri State to a historic run in Iowa City and what lies ahead with the NBA Draft approaching.On the football side, spring practice has wrapped as the Hawkeyes turn toward offseason development and preparation for fall camp. A major storyline: replacing standout specialists. New kicker Eli Ozick, a transfer from North Dakota State, discusses adjusting to Iowa and building momentum after an All-American season. Plus, hear from Australian punter Boston Everett as he embraces the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of recent Hawkeye greats, alongside competition from in-state standout Tanner Philpott.It’s a packed episode featuring award winners, rising stars, and a look ahead to the next chapter of Hawkeye football.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

owa Football wraps up spring practice this Saturday with an open workout at Kinnick Stadium, giving fans a chance to get an early look at the 2026 Hawkeyes.Head Coach Kirk Ferentz and his staff are navigating significant roster turnover following the largest graduating class in program history, with 30 new players working into the mix this spring. Several position battles remain ongoing, including at quarterback where transfers Jeremy Hecklinski and Hank Brown continue to split reps.The Hawkeyes are reloading along both the offensive and defensive lines, while a deep running back group returns after a strong 2025 season. Kamari Moulton leads a talented backfield alongside Xavier Williams, Nathan McNeil, and South Dakota transfer Lendon Phillips, as Iowa continues to emphasize a physical run game under offensive coordinator Tim Lester.This week’s episode also features interviews with defensive lineman Kenneth Merriwether, pass rusher Iose Epenesa, and running back Kamari Moulton.Spring answers are coming into focus—but several key decisions will carry into fall camp.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on the Fight for Iowa Podcast, Gary Dolphin previews the NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Championships and Iowa’s presence on the national stage.Sophomore standout Oralee Tran is set to compete for a national title on the uneven bars after scoring a perfect 10 at regionals. Tran becomes the first Hawkeye to qualify on bars since 2003 and brings international experience from the Paris Olympics and Pan Am Games.Dolph sits down with Tran and head coach Jen Llewellyn to discuss her journey, preparation, and mindset heading into nationals.Plus, a look at Iowa’s season finish, Llewellyn’s Coach of the Year honors, and what’s ahead for the program.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Spring football has arrived for the Iowa Hawkeyes, bringing one of the most significant roster overhauls in program history. With 102 players in camp and 27 seniors to replace, Kirk Ferentz and his staff are building the foundation for 2026.This episode breaks down the quarterback competition between Hank Brown and Jeremy Hecklinski, examines key departures to the NFL, and highlights a deep and talented running back room.Plus, hear from Coach Ferentz as Iowa continues spring practice and prepares for the season ahead.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week’s Fight for Iowa podcast, Gary Dolphin sits down with new Iowa soccer head coach Dean Ward. The Birmingham, England native brings nearly two decades of coaching experience to Iowa City after leading Xavier to 31 wins over the past two seasons, including a 2025 Big East Tournament title and an NCAA Round of 32 appearance.Ward inherits a strong Hawkeye program coming off a 12-5-4 season, a third-place Big Ten finish, and a trip to the NCAA Tournament second round. With standout returners Sofia Bush, Millie Greer, and Iba Oching, plus one of the nation’s top freshman classes, Iowa looks poised to build on its No. 21 national ranking.Ward discusses his coaching philosophy, similarities with former head coach Dave Dianni, and his vision for a more aggressive attacking style. Plus, a look ahead to the Hawkeyes’ spring exhibition matchup against Iowa State.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Hawkeyes make their 30th NCAA Tournament appearance—and first since 2022—squaring off with Clemson in an 8/9 matchup Friday in Tampa. Led by senior guard Bennet Stirtz, who averaged 22 points per game in Big Ten play, Iowa enters March with momentum after a 21-win season in one of the nation’s toughest conferences.Clemson counters with a deep, balanced roster and All-ACC forward RJ Godfrey, but will be without starting center Carter Welling due to injury. With both teams known for their defense, this matchup sets up as one of the most competitive games of the opening round—with a potential showdown against top-seeded Florida looming.We hear from head coach Ben McCollum and floor leader Bennett Stirtz as the Hawkeyes prepare for Friday’s tip.Plus, Iowa Women’s Basketball opens NCAA Tournament play in Iowa City as a No. 2 seed, hosting Fairleigh Dickinson at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. Head coach Jan Jensen, Kylie Feuerbach, and a veteran Hawkeye squad look to make another deep March run on their home floor.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 03-09-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 03-09-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tom Brands joins the Fight for Iowa Podcast as the Hawkeyes prepare for the Big Ten Wrestling Championships. The Iowa head coach breaks down the team’s mindset heading into the postseason, discusses key wrestlers and matchups to watch, and explains what it will take for the Hawkeyes to compete for a conference title. Brands also shares insight into Iowa’s preparation, the intensity of the Big Ten tournament, and how the Hawkeyes are positioning themselves for the road to the NCAA Championships.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 03-02-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 03-02-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 02-23-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 02-23-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 02-18-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 02-18-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on the Fight for Iowa Podcast, Dolph sits down with the newest voice in the Hawkeye coaching room — Chris Polizzi, Iowa’s Special Teams Coordinator. Fresh off earning the role leading one of the most vital (and often game-deciding) phases of football, Polizzi opens up about stepping into his new position for the Hawkeyes and the mindset he brings to the job. With two decades of coaching experience at the collegiate level — including stops at Tulsa, UT-Martin, UCLA, Utah, Western Carolina, Tennessee Tech, and previous roles with Iowa — Chris offers insight into what it takes to coach at the highest levels of college football and how special teams fit into the Hawkeyes’ identity.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 02-09-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 02-09-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 02-02-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 02-02-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Iowa Swimming and Diving celebrates Senior Night this Friday as the Hawkeyes host St. Thomas at the Campus Wellness and Recreation Center.Iowa enters the meet 3–3 overall and 2–2 in Big Ten duals, coming off big wins over Illinois and Nebraska in what has been a record-setting season under head coach Nathan Mundt and diving coach Todd Waikel.Senior diver Lainey Woodward and junior standout Olivia Swalley join this week’s Fight for Iowa podcast. Woodward discusses her comeback from injury and what Senior Night means to a class that helped guide the program through difficult early years. Swalley reflects on a season that’s seen her lead the team in five events and rewrite the record book.Plus, a look ahead at a bright future: freshman Payton Flowers’ pool record in the 50 free, and a Hawkeye Invitational that produced 19 program top-10 times, three champions, and three school records.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 01-26-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 01-26-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Gary Dolphin welcomes Iowa men’s basketball assistant coaches Bryston Williams and Josh Sash to Fight for Iowa this week for a powerful, personal conversation. The two discuss their individual journeys into coaching, their transition to Iowa, and what it’s like working for head coach Ben McCollum. Josh also reflects on the life and legacy of his late brother, former Hawkeye All-American safety Tyler Sash, and how that connection to Iowa continues to shape him today.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 01-19-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 01-19-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 01-12-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jenson 01-12-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 01-07-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jenson 1-07-26See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Tampa, Gary Dolphin and former Hawkeye great Pat Angerer wrap up Bowl Week coverage on the Fight for IowaBowl Preview Show, presented by Hills Bank, with a final look ahead to Iowa vs. Vanderbilt in the 2025 ReliaQuest Bowl. The episode focuses on final preparations, mindset, and what will matter most when the Hawkeyes take the field.This final pregame show features interviews with Hawkeyes Max Llewellyn and Deshaun Lee, offering player perspective on Bowl Week, team chemistry, and the opportunity to finish the season strong on the national stage in Tampa.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Fight for Iowa Bowl Preview Show 12-30-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Tampa, Gary Dolphin and former Hawkeye great Pat Angerer continue Bowl Week coverage on the Fight for Iowa Bowl Preview Show, presented by Hills Bank, as the Hawkeyes prepare for the 2025 ReliaQuest Bowl matchup against Vanderbilt. The show breaks down the latest storylines, preparation, and mindset as Iowa gets set to close the season on the national stage.This episode features player interviews with Kaden Wetjen, Kamari Moulton, and Logan Jones, offering a behind-the-scenes look at Bowl Week from the locker room to the practice field. Insight and perspective from Hawkeye voices as kickoff approaches in Tampa.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Tampa, the Fight for Iowa Bowl Preview Show continues as Pat Angerer and Gary Dolphin dive deeper into Iowa’s preparation for the 2025 ReliaQuest Bowl matchup with Vanderbilt. This episode focuses on the defensive mindset and quarterback play as Iowa readies itself for bowl season, with insight on matchups, adjustments, and what will matter most on game day.The show features interviews with Iowa defensive coordinator Phil Parker and quarterback Mark Gronowski, breaking down preparation, leadership, and the keys to success in Tampa as the Hawkeyes approach their postseason finale.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Live from Tampa, Gary Dolphin and former Hawkeye great Pat Angerer preview Iowa’s bowl matchup against Vanderbilt in the 2025 ReliaQuest Bowl on this special Fight for Iowa Bowl Preview Show, presented by Hills Bank. Dolph and Angerer break down the key storylines, matchups, and what to expect as the Iowa Hawkeyes close the season on the national stage.The episode features interviews with Iowa offensive coordinator Tim Lester and Hawkeye linebacker Koen Entringer, providing insight into preparation, mindset, and the keys to success in Tampa as bowl week arrives.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 12-22-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 12-22-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 12-15-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 12-15-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Gary Dolphin is joined by Iowa men’s basketball assistant coach Luke Barnwell, who made the move to Iowa after a successful run at Texas Tech. Barnwell discusses his coaching journey, what drew him to Iowa, and his perspective on building success in the Big Ten.Barnwell brings 14 years of coaching experience, including helping Texas Tech to a 51–20 record and two NCAA Tournament appearances, plus an elite prep résumé as a two-time Naismith High School Coach of the Year at Sunrise Christian Academy. Growing up in Emporia, Kansas, Barnwell shares his roots in the game and his vision for Hawkeye basketball.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 12-08-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 12-08-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special bowl-edition episode of the Fight for Iowa Podcast, Gary Dolphin brings you audio from Head Coach Kirk Ferentz’s ReliaQuest Bowl announcement press conference. Hear Coach Ferentz break down Iowa’s postseason bid, the matchup with Vanderbilt, and how the Hawkeyes will prepare for their trip to Tampa. It’s your first look at Iowa’s bowl plan as the team gears up for its New Year’s Eve showdown.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of the Fight for Iowa podcast, Director of Recruiting Tyler Barnes sits down to dive into Iowa Football’s latest signing class—who’s coming in, what traits the staff values, and how this group fits the long-term vision for the program. Barnes also explains Iowa’s strategy in the ever-evolving transfer portal landscape and what fans should watch for in the months ahead.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Ben McCollum 12-03-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Jan Jensen 12-03-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Kirk Ferentz 11-24-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Iowa Women’s Wrestling team is off to a strong 3–0 start in duals to open the season. Coach Clarissa Chun’sHawkeyes return to Carver-Hawkeye Arena on December 7th, hosting Oklahoma State and 5th-ranked Colorado Mesa in a double dual, with bouts beginning at 2 p.m.Last week, the Hawkeyes took part in the Throwdown on the Yorktown, competing on the flight deck of the USS Yorktown in Charleston Bay, South Carolina. Iowa rolled past 6th-ranked Presbyterian, 35–9, and Coach Chun says the team’s depth made a major impact — and will continue to be a deciding factor throughout the season.This week on Fight for Iowa, we continue our conversation with Coach Chun as she breaks down the early success of her squad, the competitiveness in the room, and where she wants this team to grow next.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hawk Talk with Kirk Ferentz 11-19-25See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.