Alex Vandenhouten

Ashlyn Reinhart sent the Warriors to state with a game-winning single in the ninth inning to cap a thrilling, historic victory.

Caleigh Barrone struck out 14 and allowed just one hit, while Tallie Behrens slugged a two-run homer to lift the Bears over rival Kasson-Mantorville and back to the state tournament.

Byron, Caledonia and Southland are all set for state softball tournament quarterfinal games in North Mankato on Tuesday.

An early deficit was too much to overcome for the Warriors in the program's first state tournament game.

The Bears offense did just enough, while Caliegh Barrone was terrific again in the circle, as Byron is heading back to the state championship.

St. Francis smashed 10 hits, and rode the arm of Sydney Borchert to capture the program's first softball state championship, beating Section 1-3A champ Byron in the title game.

Houston and Byron lead the way with a combined seven All-State selections.

The youngest daughter of a coach, Caledonia's Avery Augedahl was an early student of the game before evolving into one of the state's best softball players.

It was another great season for southeast Minnesota standouts on the diamond.

The 2008 Pine Island graduate has been tabbed, along with Jason Elsmore, to be the co-head coach of the Pine Island boys wrestling team.