The polls are open! In a celebration of winter sports dominance, the Southwest Florida (SWFL) High School Top Team Poll for January 2026 is officially live.
Hosted collaboratively by the Fort Myers News-Press and the Naples Daily News, this monthly tradition invites fans to cast their votes for the athletic programs that defined the regional landscape over the last 31 days. From the hardwood to the soccer pitch, these nominees represent the “best of the best” across Lee and Collier counties.
The January 2026 Nominees
This month’s ballot features a diverse array of programs that have secured district titles, ended long losing streaks, or maintained undefeated records throughout the winter push.
Barron Collier Boys Basketball: The Cougars have surged into the top state rankings after a statement win against a top-tier opponent, led by senior standout Spencer Clayton.
Fort Myers Girls Soccer: Continuing their legacy of dominance, the Green Wave finished January without a single goal conceded in conference play, securing the top seed in their district.
Bishop Verot Wrestling: Following a powerhouse performance at the regional duals, the Vikings are being recognized for their depth and multiple individual weight-class titles.
Naples High Girls Basketball: A dark horse this season, the Golden Eagles are on an 8-game winning streak, recently knocking off two ranked opponents in a single week.
Mariner Boys Soccer: The Tritons remain the team to beat in 5A, showcasing an explosive offense that averaged four goals per game throughout January.
Voting Details & Deadlines
The poll is designed to engage the community and celebrate student-athletes. Here is everything you need to know to make your voice heard:
| Feature | Details |
| Where to Vote | Online at News-Press.com or NaplesNews.com. |
| Frequency | Fans can vote once per hour per device. |
| Deadline | Voting closes at 12:00 PM (Noon) on Monday, February 9, 2026. |
| Winner Announcement | The “January Team of the Month” will be featured in the Tuesday print and digital sports editions. |
“These polls aren’t just about the wins on the scoreboard; they are a testament to the community support and school spirit that make SWFL high school sports so unique.” — Regional Sports Desk, Feb 2026






