The Tahoma softball team advanced to the state tournament despite losing its first game in SPSL 4A district tournament play.

The Bears, which were undefeated during the regular season, slipped against Bethel on May 24, losing 7-1. That set up a win-or-go-home game with rival Kentwood, which also lost in the first round, 5-1, against Gig Harbor.

Tahoma rebounded with a 9-4 win over the Conks and never looked back, defeating Olympia, 8-3, and Yelm, 12-2, to secure sixth place in the tournament.

The Bears have a date in the state tournament with Redmond at 10 a.m. on May 30.