IOWA FALLS, IOWA -- The Ellsworth Panthers have used a 9-2 start to their season to make an appearance in the national ratings.  ECC is ranked 19th in this week's NJCAA Division II poll.  The Panthers' hot start includes victories against two opponents that were ranked when ECC beat them.  Their only two losses came against teams that are rated -- No. 4 Milwaukee Area Tech and No. 15 Central-Columbus (Neb.)

Ellsworth's spot in the national poll means two ranked squads will collide this Wednesday night when the Panthers host No. 10 Iowa Western at Dittmer Gym.  ECC and IWCC are two of five Iowa Community College Athletic Conference DII teams included in this weeks ratings.  They are joined by No. 5 Kirkwood, No. 12 DMACC and No. 13 Iowa Lakes.