REEDSPORT — A year ago, Reedsport’s softball team found itself in the state playoffs with a game at Dayton.

It was a game none of the Braves are particularly fond of — a 10 loss.

The players feel they are much better prepared for this year’s playoffs, which start Tuesday, with a game at Elgin.

“Last year, we had too much of new things,” said Kelsey Moore, one of several seniors on the roster. “Now we know what it feels like and we’re ready.”

Reedsport finished second in the Sunset Conference during the regular season and then beat Cascade Christian on Thursday in the league playoffs to secure the second seed for state.

The Braves have a veteran team and have had a strong season hitting the ball and especially playing defense.

“That’s one thing about this team,” said Reedsport coach Casey Howard. “Even when we play people who hit the ball well, we play tough defense.”

The Braves would like to add some offense to that defense. They struggled against Cascade Christian on Thursday, but that was the exception, not the norm, this season.

“I think we’ll do well if we hit good,” said senior Hannah Smith, a first-year softball player. “The games that we hit, we do really good.”

Reedsport boasts a potent lineup that features Lindsay Holden, Brianna Ekelund, Stephanie Clardy, Chelsea Hitchcock, Smith and Moore at the top.

“We’re going to face some tough teams,” said Lindsay Holden. “But if we stay focused and get the bat on the ball, we’ll be OK.”

Meanwhile, pitcher Tailor Nunn has been steady and worked well with the defense to help the Braves to their solid season.

Howard has a good feeling about her team’s chances in the playoffs.

“I think we’re going to be way more prepared,” she said. “Last year, they were so nervous it was unreal.”