Familiar names at the top
The strongest theme is continuity.
- The report says Pierre, Sioux Falls Christian and Dell Rapids St. Mary all begin as No. 1 teams after winning state titles in 2025.
- It also says runners-up Sioux Falls Lincoln and Elk Point-Jefferson open on top of their divisions.
- In 11AAA, Sioux Falls Lincoln reportedly collected 16 first-place votes and 95 points.
- In 11AA, Pierre is said to lead with 19 first-place votes and 97 points.
- In 11A, Sioux Falls Christian reportedly starts with a unanimous 20 first-place votes and 100 points.
That kind of voting spread usually tells its own story. A unanimous No. 1 suggests clear separation. A narrower lead points to a class that could move quickly once games begin.
Tight races already taking shape
Not every bracket looks settled.
- In 11B, Elk Point-Jefferson is reported to be narrowly ahead of a pack including St. Thomas More and Winner.
- In 9AA, Parkston reportedly opens first with 19 first-place votes and 99 points.
- In 9B, Dell Rapids St. Mary is said to lead Wall by just 89-87.
That 9B margin stands out most. A two-point gap in August usually means little room for error once the schedule hardens. It also makes that class one of the first worth tracking for movement.
Soccer’s champions set the pace
The soccer side follows a similar script. The report says all four reigning state champions start No. 1:
- Sioux Falls Lincoln in boys AA
- Harrisburg in girls AA
- James Valley Christian in boys A
- Sioux Falls Christian in girls A
That gives the preseason list a simple message: if anyone wants to change the order, they will have to take it from the teams already used to finishing on top.
The next step is the only one that matters now. Rankings create the frame, but the first weeks of the season will test whether these favorites can hold position once results arrive and the next set of polls lands.