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Sussex Hamilton kept its grip on No. 1 this week after posting a spotless 9-0 start and decisive wins against several ranked opponents, underscoring an early pecking order that could shape the Division 1 landscape. With the regular season heating up, these results offer the first meaningful clues about which programs are building the momentum to make deep runs into the WIAA state tournament.
The weekly Top 25 reflects games played through the most recent slate and balances head-to-head results, strength of schedule and sustained performance. Rankings were compiled using data from the Wisconsin Fastpitch Softball Coaches Association (WFSCA) and MaxPreps, and will evolve as teams face tougher conference tests over the next month.
1. Sussex Hamilton (9-0)
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Holding steady at the summit, the Chargers have answered early-season questions by beating quality opponents, including a tight decision over No. 2 and lopsided shutouts of several conference rivals. Their record and recent form mark them as the team to beat in the Greater Metro Conference and a clear threat in Division 1.
Next game: at Menomonee Falls (April 27)
2. Green Bay Preble (11-0)
Preble climbs after an 11-0 run highlighted by high-scoring wins that have tested their lineup depth. The Hornets’ offense has been prolific, and they arrive at the next big week with confidence.
Next game: at Ashwaubenon (April 28)
3. Muskego (9-0)
The Warriors remain unbeaten and have survived a couple of close calls while also posting comfortable victories. Muskego’s balanced attack and clutch hitting in late innings are driving the undefeated start.
Next game: vs. Oconomowoc (April 27)
4. Stevens Point (5-0)
Stevens Point is off to a perfect start and steadily rising in the conversation as a contender in its division after a pair of recent road wins.
Next game: at Wisconsin Rapids Lincoln (April 28)
5. Union Grove (11-1)
After an 11-game win streak, the Broncos suffered a narrow loss but remain among the state’s most consistent squads. Their schedule will present key tests that could determine seeding later this spring.
Next game: vs. Westosha Central (April 27)
Quick perspective: the top 10 teams in this poll have combined for an eye-catching 93-3 record — a sign that the state’s elite programs are separating themselves early. That disparity matters for postseason seeding and for how coaches will approach nonconference scheduling as the calendar progresses.
- 6. Fox Valley Lutheran (10-0) — Offensive outburst in recent wins; vs. No. 19 Appleton North (April 27).
- 7. Sun Prairie East (8-2) — Rebounded after a loss to No. 1; at Verona (April 28).
- 8. Medford (9-0) — Dominant scoring in recent games; vs. Almond‑Bancroft (April 27).
- 9. Johnson Creek (12-0) — Streaking Bluejays with a deep lineup; at Deerfield (April 28).
- 10. Hortonville (9-0) — Climbed into the top 10 after key wins; at Oshkosh West (April 28).
- 11. Wittenberg‑Birnamwood (10-0) — Strong start, solid pitching; vs. Weyauwega‑Fremont (April 27).
- 12. Grantsburg (7-0) — Unbeaten through seven, tight defensive work; at Ellsworth (April 27).
- 13. Mosinee (9-1) — Momentum-building wins against regional rivals; vs. Lakeland (April 28).
- 14. Kimberly (6-1) — Mixed results but recovered with big wins; at Neenah (April 30).
- 15. Kewaskum (12-1) — Long winning run snapped? Still a top threat; vs. No. 16 Plymouth (April 27).
- 16. Plymouth (9-1) — Newcomer to the rankings with big swings in run production; at No. 15 Kewaskum (April 27).
- 17. Hartford (8-3) — Saw a five-game streak end against a ranked Muskego; vs. Grafton (April 28).
- 18. West Salem (10-2) — Quality wins and steady pitching; at Viroqua (April 27).
- 19. Appleton North (8-2) — Riding a short winning string; vs. Appleton East (April 28).
- 20. Oak Creek (7-3) — Recent shutouts and productive offense; at Mukwonago (April 27).
- 21. Poynette (10-1) — Long streak halted by West Salem but still ranked; vs. Lakeside Lutheran (April 28).
- 22. Baldwin‑Woodville (8-0) — Perfect start and a convincing victory last week; at Somerset (April 28).
- 23. Almond‑Bancroft (7-1) — Strong run production in recent games; at No. 8 Medford (April 27).
- 24. Waupun (9-2) — Winning ways paused after a close loss; vs. Lodi (April 28).
- 25. Mineral Point (13-3) — High win total and a steady climb into the poll; vs. Cuba City (April 27).
What to watch next: a string of head‑to‑head matchups among ranked teams this week will further clarify the pecking order. For programs on the bubble, wins over ranked opponents can flip momentum and influence postseason pairing. Coaches will also be monitoring injuries and pitching availability as the season approaches mid‑May and tournament qualification deadlines.
Methodology note: Rankings reflect results through the most recent games and incorporate standings and schedules from the WFSCA and MaxPreps. Expect movement weekly as teams face tougher conference stretches and nonconference challenges.
— Jeff Hagenau | jeffreyhagenau@gmail.com
