The 3-0 start for the girls’ basketball team at Paton-Churdan High School, which includes a win over top 10 ranked Exira/Elk Horn-Kimballton, had led to the Rockets themselves landing in the top 10. The Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union has P-C in the number nine spot in ratings released Dec. 12. E/EHK is ranked tenth and tonight’s P-C opponent, Ar-We-Va, is number 11. The Rockets of P-C meet the Rockets of AWV at 6 p.m. in Rolling Valley Conference play in Westside. Chris Petersen coaches the P-C girls.

Chris Stimson coaches the P-C boys and his team is also 3-0 entering action in Westside vs. AWV tonight following the girls’ game. Coach Stimson told Raccoon Valley Radio that it’s an “awesome” feeling to get off to such a great start. He added the bulk of the team is comprised of juniors and sophomores that had a tough time winning on the varsity level when they were younger. “This group works extremely hard at basketball and it’s nice to see them get rewarded for their hard work. We know it’s early in the season and a lot of things can happen, but it’s a great start.”