PLEASANT HILL — The Fort Dodge Gazelles are making it a habit of playing in late October.

For the second consecutive season, the Gazelles will compete in the girls state rugby tournament in just their fourth year of existence.

“We’re still a relatively young team in the league,” said Fort Dodge head coach Corey Peterman. “Making state two seasons in a row is a testament to their effort and desire to be better.”

The Gazelles had a strong campaign, going 8-5 in the regular-season slate.

The 2025 state tournament will be held at Southeast Polk Junior High on Sunday. Fort Dodge earned the No. 6 seed, and will face No. 3 seed Southeast Polk at 1 p.m.

“These girls play with grit, determination and heart,” Peterman said. “We didn’t start the season with as many players as most teams in the league, and a few injuries made the team even smaller during the season.

“No matter what team we faced, they played a physical style of rugby and fought until the final whistle. The majority of the team are returning players, and bring a lot of experience to the team.”

Dakota Pommer leads the Gazelles in tries with nine, while Ky Ky Mosley has eight and Bella Lee has seven. Emma Estlund, Sharol Corado and Mariana Taute have three each.

Lee paces the Gazelles with 21 conversions.

Pommer (52) is the tackles leader, followed by Estlund (29), Taute (21), Lee (20) and Mosley (19).

“Dakota Pommer and Emma Estlund have been the vocal leaders of the team and have been consistent captains for the games,” Peterman said. “They get the team motivated and focused. They identify areas to improve during half time.

“Bella leads the team in conversion kicks, Dakota and Ky Ky Mosley lead the team in tries. Dakota, Emma and Ky Ky lead the team in tackles.”

The Gazelles have come along way in a short amount of time.

“Communication during the games has improved and they have gained more confidence in themselves each week,” Peterman said. “Both are needed to be successful in this game.”

Fort Dodge has had two new players this season that have helped in the process.

“We have two new players this year with Cailey Cripe and Brooklyn Lamoureux,” Peterman said. “They both jumped in with our returning players and picked up on the basics of the game quickly.

“Both have been impressive as first year players, running the ball and tackling.”