Seniors Nick Mendonca and Jason Williamson did not make the all-Trans Valley League golf team, but they are a big reason why Ripon High is the 2012 conference champion.

The Indians captured their third crown in six years at Poppy Ridge Golf Course in Livermore Monday.

Ripon came into the TVL Tournament locked in a four-way tie for first place but separated itself from the pack.

The team’s total of 431 was higher that what Coach Chris Musseman had hoped, but considering the unfamiliarity of the challenging course it was plenty good enough. Escalon was the runner-up with a 440, and Hilmar placed third. The top three teams qualify for the Sac-Joaquin Section Division V Tournament.

“It was a good eye-opener for us,” Musseman said. “We had a great round at Diablo Grande last week, but we have to put it together in the big tournaments.”

Mendonca and Williamson did their part on Monday, each carding an 11-over 83. Zach Capel (88), Kyle Head (92) and Nick Sharp (85) earned spots on the all-league team.

“I like to see our seniors step up like that,” Musseman said of his two best scorers. “They really saved us today.”

Hughson’s Dylan Delhart was the low medalist with a 74, while Modesto Christian standout Kyle Intorf finished with an 84 to clinch Most Outstanding Player honors. Both will lead a contingent of six individuals from the TVL in next week’s divisional at Greenhorn Creek.