Canada's men's and women's teams opened the Pan American Junior Water Polo Championships with victories on Saturday.
In women's play, Alexa Tielmann of Abbotsford completed a hat trick with the game winner in an 8-7 victory over the United States at the Olympic Park Sport Centre.
Rae Lekness and Shelby Taylor, both of Calgary, Montreal's Michelle Caron, Victoria Smith of Maple Ridge and Gurpreet Sohi of North Delta also scored for Canada.
"I think it was a great way to start off the tournament," Tielmann said. "Going in against USA, we know it's always going to be a tough game, but we were well prepared and did an awesome job."
Canada faces Puerto Rico today.
In men's play, Canada trounced Argentina 19-6 with Nikola Mitrovic of Gatineau, Que., firing in six goals. David Lapins of Gatineau added three more.
"It was the kind of start we wanted, especially at home," Mitrovic said. "The first game is always one of the most important in a tournament like this. We showed that we are in top condition and our counter attack is very strong. The whole team made a great effort."
Canada takes on Brazil today.
