The Bears girls soccer team is about to kick off the season with a new head coach and a strong team.

Jason Johnson took over the head coaching duties and stated by e-mail the team looks to be competitive with “strong leadership” from the seniors.

He replaces Corinne Welch, who stepped down in December after leading the Bears for 10 years, which included nine playoff appearances.

Last season Tahoma finished third in the South Puget Sound League 4A North Division but advanced to the state quarterfinals after surprising Issaquah with a 2-1 win last fall, ultimately falling to Jackson in the next match up.

The Bears finished 2008 with an overall record of 11-5-4.

That experience and Tahoma’s record gives Johnson much to live up to in his first campaign but he will look to his returning players to lead the squad.

Johnson said the team will feature seniors Tarah Duty, Ashley Lucas and Torre Flynn.

Kaylee Osterman, also a senior, has shown talent in the forward position and Johnson expects solid play from her this season.

The Bears will get some early season action at noon Saturday in a jamboree at Sumner High’s Sunset Chev Stadium.

Tahoma’s first game will be at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept., 10, at home against SPSL North division rival Kentridge.

Reach Dennis Box at dbox@maplevalleyreporter.com or (425)432-1209 ext. 5050.

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