Preseason softball rankings

Des Moines East, Carlisle, Conrad BCLUW and Martensdale-St. Marys are the preseason No. 1 teams in the IGHSAU preseason rankings.

BCLUW was the 2A state champion in 2009, and returns its entire starting lineup.

East is the top team in 4A despite missing the state tournament last year. Defending champion Johnston is No. 6.

Clear Creek Amana was the 3A champion last year, finishing 45-0. The Clippers are No. 2 behind Carlisle, a team it defeated, 3-0, for the 2009 championship.

MSM was third in the 1A tournament last year. Defending champion Earlham is not rated.

The highest ranked teams in the area are Cedar Rapids Jefferson (third in 4A), CCA, and Mount Vernon (third in 2A). Mount Vernon is bidding to complete a volleyball/basketball/track/softball championship circuit in a single school year.