The Bainbridge High School girls water polo team finished third in state May 27.

The girls came into the tournament with a 9-3 record, losing twice to the top-seeded Curtis and once to Kennedy Catholic. So, the Spartans began their state journey May 25 against Bellevue and defeated them 7-2.

Then Spartans faced Kennedy Catholic in a rematch in the state semifinals. Bainbridge fell in a close battle 7-6 May 26.

That put Bainbridge in the consolation semifinals May 27 against Gig Harbor. The Spartans were in a hole early, trailing 4-0. But the team rallied back to win in overtime.

The Spartans ended the tournament just like it started for them, defeating Bellevue 9-5 to capture the third-place trophy.

Afterward, a handful of Spartans were awarded All-State mentions.

Sophomore Grace Rich earned first-team, sophomore Iliana Gonzales and junior Lilia Manges finished on the second team, and junior goalie Darby O’Hare was honorable mention.

Coach Kristin Gellert was proud of her team and even more excited for next season. She added the team was very young, featuring no seniors, three juniors and several first-year varsity athletes.

Goalie Darby O’Hare helps lead the Spartans to third place.