The latest high school spring sports rankings are out, and Kimberly is making a strong statement—topping both the baseball and girls soccer lists. Meanwhile, Fox Valley Lutheran leads the pack in softball. Here's how the top teams stack up in the Appleton area, with records through May 9.
Softball
1. Fox Valley Lutheran (15-2)
The Foxes hold onto the No. 1 spot despite recent losses to Mosinee and Seymour. They remain dominant in the Bay Conference at 11-1. Up next: home games against Kimberly on May 11 and Xavier on May 12.
2. Hortonville
The Polar Bears bounced back from a tough 6-5 loss to Stevens Point with an impressive 17-6 win over Arrowhead. They face Appleton East on May 12, Fond du Lac on May 14, and host Appleton North on May 15.
3. Seymour
The Thunder move up after a key 2-1 victory over Fox Valley Lutheran. Adde Smith is on fire, batting .545 with six home runs and 23 RBIs. Seymour hosts a doubleheader against Green Bay West/East on May 12 before facing Xavier on May 14.
4. Appleton North
The Lightning crack the top 5 after winning eight of their last nine games. They host Kaukauna on May 12 and Kimberly on May 14.
5. Brillion (14-4)
The Lions are getting a big boost from sophomore pitcher Jocelyn Tamm (7-1, 2.25 ERA). They play at Reedsville on May 11 and host Sheboygan Falls/Kohler on May 12.
Baseball
1. Kimberly (11-2, 10-1 FVA)
The Papermakers went 4-1 this past week, highlighted by a 3-2 win over Appleton North and a 1-0 victory over Hortonville. They host Fond du Lac on May 12 and travel to Appleton North on May 14.
2. Hortonville (15-3, 8-3 FVA)
The Polar Bears are led by Derek Baumbach, who's hitting .327. They face Appleton East on May 12 and Fond du Lac on May 14.
3. Brillion (17-2, 10-0 EWC)
The Lions have won 16 straight games, with Joe Shimek tearing it up at the plate with a .500 average. They're a team to watch as the postseason approaches.
Whether you're cheering from the stands or gearing up for your own season, these rankings show just how competitive Appleton-area spring sports have become.