Kimball High’s girls water polo team had a good start to the Valley Oak League season, and now has a shot at first place when league leader Oakdale comes to town Wednesday, Oct. 10.

“I think a lot of people are shocked to see how fast we improved,” Kimball girls coach Matt Gumpert said. “We’re definitely going to be looking to see how far we can take it.”

Varsity girls: Kimball 17, Ripon 3

Kimball High’s varsity girls water polo team finished the first half of the VOL season in second place with the Jaguars’ win over visiting Ripon on Wednesday, Oct. 3.

The Jaguars (7-4, 2-1 VOL) had an 11-2 lead at the half on the way to the win. Julihanna Mandeville and Colby Chase scored three goals each.

Varsity boys: Ripon 14, Kimball 4

Ripon’s varsity boys were able to turn Kimball’s missed shots into scoring opportunities during the second quarter of Wednesday’s game.

Ripon’s goalie repeatedly passed to open players at the other end of the pool for one-on-one shots against Kimball goalie Matt Rodriguez.

Ripon limited Kimball’s scoring opportunities in the second half, but juniors Justin Riccobono and Trevor Trew scored two goals each for Kimball.

• Contact Bob Brownne at 830-4227 or brownne@tracypress.com.