The Kaukauna Galloping Ghosts are set to make history as they prepare for the WIAA state baseball tournament, marking their first appearance since 1954.
Seeded third, the Ghosts will meet sixth‑seeded River Falls in the Division 1 quarterfinal, a matchup that follows a string of impressive victories over conference powerhouses Bay Port and Kimberly.
A Tennessee Trip That Changed the Tone
Early in the season the team traveled to Tennessee, going 2‑1 on the road. Coach Mike Jenkins recalls the journey as a turning point that forged chemistry and confidence among the players.
On the mound, Kaukauna boasts a team ERA of 2.23, anchored by Carson Gates, who posted a 0.79 ERA, while Paxton Schuh leads the staff with 60 strikeouts in 39 innings.
At the plate, Kaden Kress paces the lineup with a .449 average, contributing to a team batting average of .338. The offense has been complemented by strong contributions from teammates throughout the season.
The Ghosts enter the tournament with a 21‑7 record and an 11‑2 stretch over their last 13 games, a testament to a fan base that Coach Jenkins describes as hungry for success.