Kurene-Iwikau, Waipara Earn NJCAA All-America Honors

GARDEN CITY, Kan. – Two of the most accomplished offensive players in Garden City Community College softball history have earned national recognition. Sophomore infielder Maysen Kurene-Iwikau was named to the NJCAA Division I First Team All-America Team, while sophomore catcher Maiarangi Waipara garnered NJCAA Division I Second Team All-America honors following standout performances during the 2026 season.

The duo helped power the Broncbusters offense throughout the spring, combining for 42 home runs, 180 RBI and 166 hits while establishing themselves among the top players in the nation at their respective positions.

"Maysen and Mai had tremendous seasons and are very deserving of this recognition," Head Coach Belinda Hendrix said. "Both players worked hard every day, competed at a high level and played a major role in our success this season."

Kurene-Iwikau put together one of the most dominant offensive seasons in Garden City history on her way to First Team All-America recognition. The sophomore batted .506 with 87 hits, 22 doubles, four triples, 27 home runs and 97 RBI in 56 games.

A First Team All-KJCCC selection, Kurene-Iwikau finished third nationally in home runs and ranked among the NJCAA Division I leaders in RBI while leading the Broncbusters in nearly every offensive category. Her .506 batting average ranked among the top 20 in the nation, while her 27 home runs tied the Garden City single-season school record set by Maria Avendano Fori, cementing her place among the most prolific hitters in program history.

Kurene-Iwikau recorded 30 multi-hit games during the season, consistently providing offensive production from the middle of the Broncbusters lineup. Among her standout performances was a two-home run game against Frank Phillips.

Waipara earned Second Team All-America honors after establishing herself as one of the top all-around catchers in junior college softball. The sophomore hit .456 with 79 hits, 15 home runs, 83 RBI, 55 runs scored and 30 stolen bases while serving as a cornerstone of Garden City's lineup and defensive leadership behind the plate. Her 83 RBI ranked ninth nationally among NJCAA Division I players.

Waipara recorded 25 multi-hit games and 21 multi-RBI contests during the season while finishing second on the team in both home runs and RBI. Her rare combination of power and speed made her one of the most dynamic players in the NJCAA, combining middle-of-the-order production with aggressive baserunning and steady defensive play behind the plate.

In addition to her offensive contributions, Waipara played a vital role in managing the Broncbusters pitching staff and providing leadership on the field. Her versatility and consistency helped make her one of the most complete catchers in the country.