MEET OUR TEAM
Coaching, Refined
The experienced coaches of Ripon Aquatics have shaped many strong athletes over the years and are committed to bringing out the best in every swimmer and water polo player. Our coaching staff is dedicated to creating an environment where athletes thrive, both in competition and in personal development.
Our Head Coach
Erik Zador
Head Coach for USA Swimming, Extended Swimming, Ripon Sea Lions, Ripon Water Polo, Ripon HS Swimming & Polo
Erik Zador brings a wealth of experience and a passion for developing athletes. With a strong background in both swimming and water polo, Erik has coached athletes at all levels, from recreational swimmers to those reaching the Olympic Trials. His leadership continues to inspire success at Ripon Aquatics.
Swimming Experience
- 4-year high school varsity swimmer
- Multiple first-place finishes at SAC-Joaquin Sections
- High School Athlete of the Year
- 1997 Olympic Trial Times in Butterfly and Freestyle
- Head Coach of the Manteca Dolphins (2000-2004)
- Ripon Aquatics USS Swim Coach (2008–Present)
Water Polo Experience
- 1997 Delta Junior College Water Polo MVP
- West Valley and UOP Water Polo and Swimming (1998)
- Head Coach, Modesto High School Varsity Boys Water Polo (2004)
- Head Coach, Ripon High School Water Polo – Led the team to an 11-3 season in 2011, qualifying for Sac-Joaquin Sections
Assistant Coach
Lauren Koury
Assistant Coach, Manteca Dolphins, Sierra High School Swimming & Water Polo, Ripon Aquatics
Coach Lauren has been a passionate athlete and coach in the swimming and water polo world since 2004. A native of Modesto, Lauren swam and played water polo for Grace Davis High School and Modesto Junior College, where she developed a deep love for the sport that would shape her entire career.
Since transitioning into coaching in 2019, Lauren has become a pivotal figure in the Ripon Aquatics community. With a strong foundation in technique, teamwork, and athlete development, Lauren has helped swimmers and water polo players of all ages and skill levels achieve their goals both in and out of the pool. She continues to lead with enthusiasm, striving not only for athletic excellence but also for personal growth.
With a coaching style that emphasizes discipline, encouragement, and hard work, Lauren is committed to creating a positive and challenging environment where every athlete has the opportunity to thrive.
Coaching Experience
- Head Coach, Manteca Dolphins (2019–Present)
- Head Coach, Sierra High School Swimming & Water Polo (2019–Present)
- Led the Sierra High School Women’s Water Polo team to their first-ever league championship title
- Guided the team to a semi-finals appearance in the Sac-Joaquin Section D3 playoffs
In Loving Memory OF
Ervin Zador
Former Coach for Ripon Aquatics Swimming, Ripon Sea Lions, and Extended Swimming
Though Coach Ervin Zador is no longer with us, his legacy and spirit continue to inspire the Ripon Aquatics team. As a coach, Ervin’s dedication and passion for the sport transformed the lives of countless athletes, and his influence lives on in our programs.
Achievements
- 1956 Olympic Gold Medalist in Water Polo
- Over 40 years of coaching experience
- Inventor of the Zador Board (Zaqua)
- Accomplished chess player (once a chessmaster)