SPIRIT LAKE — The Wampus Cats came out sharp to open the 1A District 1-2 volleyball tournament on Wednesday, downing Lakeside 21-25, 26-24, 25-17, 25-20 in a loser-out match at Timberlake High School.

Brooke Stevens led the Wampus Cats (11-10) with 24 assists and three aces, Hailey Bristol added eight kills, Allison Warner and Ellie Kiebert six kills each, and Emily Garman 25 digs in the win.

Clark Fork head coach Cindy Derr praised the play of Kiebert, just a freshman, who was involved in the attack.

“Ellie came in and did an amazing job,” praised Derr. “I was pleased with our serving, it was a lot better tonight.”

The Cats advanced to the championship match, where they were swept 25-22, 25-18, 25-21 by Kootenai in a game closer than the score.

Stevens led the way with 13 assists, Warner added four kills and Ellie Lambert five digs in the loss.

“We played them point for point. I think they were surprised we played them so well,” said Derr. “Our girls dug in.”

The Wampus Cats are still alive, and will face the runner up from the White Pine League in a state play-in game in Moscow at 4 p.m.

Derr didn’t tell her team beforehand, hoping they would win districts, and the news of another game was well received.

“The girls are excited to know they have another shot at it,” said Derr, who hopes her team can punch its ticket to state. “Excited to get on a bus and play in Moscow on Saturday.”