MADISON, WI – The Kaukauna softball dynasty added another chapter to its storied legacy Saturday afternoon, as the second-seeded Galloping Ghosts (27-0) capped an undefeated season with a 1-0 victory over top-seeded and defending champion Kenosha Bradford (29-2) to claim the WIAA Division 1 state championship at Goodman Diamond.
It marks Kaukauna’s fourth state title in the past five years and sixth overall, further solidifying their status as a powerhouse in Wisconsin high school softball.
As they’ve done all season, the Ghosts relied on dominant pitching and timely execution. Karly Meredith delivered a complete-game shutout in the circle, scattering five hits and striking out four. But she also played a crucial role at the plate, or rather, on the base paths.
In the top of the fourth inning, Meredith was hit by a pitch to lead off the frame. She then stole second base and came around to score the game’s only run on a clutch RBI double by Lily Boyle, which turned out to be Kaukauna’s only hit of the game.
Bradford managed five hits in the game, but Kaukauna’s defense, including two key double plays, kept the Red Devils off the scoreboard. Meredith stayed composed in pressure moments, leaving four Bradford runners stranded.
The title win is the culmination of a dominant season for Kaukauna, which finished unbeaten and barely gave opponents a sliver of opportunity. The Ghosts’ fourth title in five seasons cements a near-dynastic run for the program, which shows no signs of slowing down.
State Championship Scores
D1
Kaukauna 1, Kenosha Bradford 0
D2
Denmark 4, Jefferson 1
D3
Poynette 11, Fall Creek 5
D4
Mishicot 1, Pacelli 0 (9 inn)
D5
Belmont 8, Almond-Bancroft 3
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