By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Drake Krippene, Ripon volleyball
AOW Drake Krippene

Only a sophomore, Krippene has stepped up in a big way for the Indians.

With returning standout outside hitter Alex Alvarellos limited all season by a knee injury, Krippene has taken on a lead role in many ways. The emerging 6-foot-3 outside hitter keyed Ripon’s three wins last week, and the Indians (9-2, 23-7 overall) were riding a 10-match streak coming into their Trans Valley League showdown with Ripon Christian.

Krippene is also hobbled by an injury (ankle) but has found a way to continue leading the team with his play.

“Even though he’s injured, he still gives 100 percent and has the best games of his life,” Ripon coach Tara Maruyama said. “He just keeps stepping up and stepping up. He has learned to play multiple positions, is a great teammate and always working hard.

“For a sophomore, he’s one of the top players I’ve ever had. He just knows how to play every single position and is great at adjusting.”

Krippene clubbed a season-high 27 kills on 45 attacks in a four-set TVL win at Orestimba last Wednesday, April 16. He also served six aces.

One night later, the Indians rallied past Sierra in a non-league thriller, 25-22, 20-25, 28-26, 22-25, 15-10. Krippene netted 18 kills, eight assists, seven aces, seven digs and three solo blocks,

Ripon routed Riverbank earlier in the week in three sets. Krippene chipped in five kills, four aces and a block in limited action.

For the season, Krippene is one of the most prolific hitters nationally. His 410 kills is 10th most in the country, eighth most in the state and fifth most in the Sac-Joaquin Section. His 84 service aces ranks him No. 4 nationally and No. 2 in the state and section.

Ripon hosts Downey (15-8) for a non-league tilt tonight before wrapping up the regular season and TVL play Thursday at Big Valley Christian (6-3, 24-8).