RIPON — The Valley Oak League’s reigning champions started the conference season at Ripon High’s Ervin Zador Aquatic Center on Wednesday.

The Ripon boys began their title defense with a 15-9 victory over Oakdale. In the girls match, the defending champs from Oakdale held off the Lady Indians 12-7.

Kole Gonzales starred in the boys contest and accumulated six goals and three steals. Diego Moreno contributed three goals and two assists. Daniel Esenwein scored twice and won four sprints. Nick Delgado and Ty Wells chipped in a goal apiece. Nick Gagnon came up with four steals, and goalie Darnay Mach finished with eight saves. 

Ripon’s girls were led by Hannah Sweet’s four goals and four assists. Alexia Urias, Andria Martin and Chloe Winter each scored a goal, and Kyra Foley had three blocks at goal.

Ripon next hosts Calaveras on Monday.