The Wisconsin high school season kicks off on March 29, the first day for regular season games. Most teams will begin practicing on March 21, getting their rosters set and finalizing their lineups.

Over the next several weeks, leading up to opening day, we will be rolling out team previews of high school teams all across the state and across all classifications, eventually launching our Preseason Power 25.

We have been sending out our annual Preseason Questionnaire to coaches all across the state and as the responses flood in we will bring you a snapshot of what to expect along with top players and keys to success for that particular team. If you don’t see your team’s season preview make sure your head coach fills out his Preseason Questionnaire.

Team: Kimberly
Preseason Rank: 9
2015 Record: 26-5
Conference: Fox Valley Association
WIAA Division: 1
Head Coach: Ryan McGinnis
Playoff Run: State Runner-Up (D1)
2015 Final Rank: 2

TOP PLAYERS

 

KEY PLAYER LOST
Bryce Swick, RHP/INF
Ethan Taggert, RHP

OUTLOOK
The Papermakers lost a dynamic 1-2 punch at the top of their pitching staff, as Bryce Swick and Ethan Taggert tag teamed their way all the way to the state title game in 2015. The question this year is if Kimberly can produce a similar combination to get back to Appleton in 2016. Senior RHP Tanner Haessly will most likely lead the staff as he posted a 5-0 record with a 1.68 ERA in over 33 innings pitched. The Kimberly offense did not suffer similar blows to graduation as three of their top bats are back with returning second-team all-state outfielder Ben Carew leading the way. The Kent State commit should be their top offensive producer along with C Steven Jacobson and SS Danny VandenBoom. VandenBoom, a junior has been contributing at the varsity level since his freshman year. Another junior, outfielder Zach Carney should also figure into the mix as he was an everyday starter last year for the Papermakers.

Kimberly will need to find some depth on the mound, but one thing that is certain as that Coach McGinnis will get the most out of his squad. Kimberly has always been one of the best coached teams in the state, a big reason for there success year in and year out.

If you are a high school coach and have yet to send in your Preseason Questionnaire please fill one out HERE.