CLARK FORK — The Wampus Cats gave it everything they had, but fell to Garden Valley, 53-36, in the first round of the 1A District 2 state championship playoffs held Friday at Clark Fork High School.

Despite the loss, it was a huge improvement compared to last year, when Clark Fork was defeated by Castleford 56-0 in the first round of the playoffs. Now being the teams’ second year in a row competing in state playoffs, the Wampus Cats are hoping to continue that trend.

“This team had a great season,” head coach Patrick Young said. “Expectations were high coming into this year. With the way this team battled all season long, and with the way we came together when it mattered most, I’d say we met those expectations.”

Against Garden Valley, senior Ethan Howard led the charge behind center, throwing 12 completions for 276 yards and racking up three total touchdowns — two passing, one rushing. Last week, Howard was awarded the Idaho 8-man 3 Stars Award presented by Idahosports.com for his performance against Lakeside. Chase Sanroman, who missed the Wampus Cats’ last game due to an injury, left it all out on the field, recording four receptions for 153 yards, two touchdowns, 21 yards rushing, and 65 kick return yards.

Senior Cole Mintken continued to play on both sides of the ball. On offense, he rushed 10 times for 64 yards and two touchdowns. Junior Evrett Montgomery led the Wampus Cats with eight receptions for 107 yards and recorded another interception on defense, his seventh of the season.

“This was a great group of players to coach,” Young said. “I’m going to miss all of the seniors that worked so hard for us. I couldn’t be more proud of these young men for the way they grew up throughout the season. With this being my first season, this team will hold a special place in my heart.”

Clark Fork finished the season with a 5-4 record, with wins over Kootenai (2), Wallace (2), and of course, Lakeside, which will go down as the biggest fourth quarter comeback (20 points) in Clark Fork history.