Wade Ishibashi Sr, may have gone on to coach on the Lord’s team, but some of his players whom he had the privilege to coach made Keaau and Big Island fans proud of their upset victory over ILH perennial power Iolani. For substitute Keaau coach Ikaika Harris (Keaau 07) it was a most triumphant victory. With both teams playing aggressive man defense throughout the night, it was the driving style of Keaau that would persevere. Both teams strategy seem to mirror each other, keeping it simple by having the offense flow with drives and dishes.
Wade Ishibashi’s coaching philosophy when he was at the helm at Keaau High School was an aggressive attacking offense predicated on the dribble drive. Going strong was his motto. Last night, Haku Ishibashi, Makana Cazimero, Richie Handy and Sekona Holani executed that type of philosophy to victory. In the first half, Keaau kept pace with the talented team from Oahu. Iolani, which had many players coming from their HHSAA Division II Football Championship kept things simple, with a dribble penetrating type of offense and man defense. The game plan for the Red Raiders was basically the same game plan used by former Iolani coach “Doc” Mark Muguiishi over the years while in preseason.
Kainoa Chu was the primary weapon the Raiders relied on, as he was quick to the basket in the first half. However, the Raiders did not expect Keaau to give them a dose of the same medicine. Keaau caught momentum on some mid fourth quarter spurts by squirting past the Iolani full court press and finding Sekona or Handy under the basket for easy bankers. For new Iolani head coach Dean Shimamoto, it was an unexpected first defeat of his young coaching career. With former coach Doc Muguiishi sitting on the bench as a consultant rather than an assistant looking on.
For the Cougar program, it was a momentous victory. In 2004, when Wade was an assistant coach at Keaau, the Cougars took a thumping from Iolani in the HHSAA tournament. That year Iolani was led by Low and Nash. Recently Wade Ishibashi’s life was remembered on the anniversary of Wade Ishibashi day proclaimed by Mayor Billy Kenoi and the County of Hawaii on December 5th, 2008. A 3 on 3 tournament raising awareness of bone marrow registry and continuing the spirit of Ishibashi will be played this Saturday (December 12, 2009) and emotions will run deep again. The Keaau Cougars for the moment have for one day and for one game given Wade, his family and fans a big smile and delight.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
MAD Bunch Finally Get One
The New York Yankees captured the 2009 World Series last night in their new digs, creating a new legacy and future history. Most of the buzz last night was about the four veterans that now have five world series rings. Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, Andy Pettitte, and Jorge Posada the nucleus of the past will forever be linked to being some of the best Yankees of all time. It has been nine years since the last Yankee championship. In the middle of those years there were doubts that the wealthiest team in MLB couldn’t reach the pinnacle again. However, bring in Brian Cashman (Met’s 85 W.S. GM) who tweeked the formula and brought in some missing pieces and the team made it happen.
The MAD bunch who sacrificed so much frustration, Matsui, A-Rod, and Damon finally got to hoist the big trophy. The three players endured so much criticism along with the other Yankees for their previous mediocre playoff heroics. A franchise with so much promise and expectations, it was not easy for these players with high payrolls to hide during the post season. The enduring of carrying that monkey would have driven most players away. So many years of great regular seasons to only falter in the playoffs.
Was it time to overhaul the whole team, was asked many times. Johnny Damon captured a title with the Red Sox in 2004. However he missed the next World Series Red Sox title along with his beard and mustache when he was bought by the Yankees prior to Boston winning it all in 2007. Hideki (Godzilla) Matsui, Japan’s bomber, brought an entourage of reporters from the rising sun and Alex Rodrigues the best shortstop counterpart to Derek Jeter was brought over from the Texas Rangers. All players had high expectations from the New York fans to help the veteran players win a couple of championships immediately.
For these three players there was much pressure to not only win but to win it all every year. The window was vanishing and closing on their careers as they aged. It looked like the elusive Yankee World Series Championship ring was not meant to be for them. In the 2009 series it was fitting, that the three MAD players produced the offense to complement the pitching and came clutch in this World Series. Matsui in game six recorded six RBI’s tying a New York record for RBI’s in a world series game. Matsui would be named MVP for the series as he hit over 600% and three homers . Damon was key in game three and four in getting on and stealing bases along with a homer. A-Rod, was on fire in the NLCS. However, once the world series started and he got off to a slow start, some doubters were exclaiming, “here we go again, another inept series for the Yankees”. Reporters would say, “good pitching but where’s the million dollar offense?” However in game three A-Rod let it loose and continued his tear again, bringing in a valuable game go ahead RBI.
It is hard to imagine the team winning without the MAD bunch. Next year Matsui and Damon may be gone through free agency. It is too bad most fans of the World Series never understood the value of these two players over the years. Most only got to see them or track them on their previous World Series performances. However, they played a huge part in helping the Yankees reach the playoffs almost every year. It’s been that kind of year for the Yankees. In with the new (Stadium, AJ Burnett, Teixeira, Sabathia), shine with the old (Matsui, A-Rod, Damon), and reminding everyone of the past. (Pettitte, Rivera, Posada, Jeter)
The MAD bunch who sacrificed so much frustration, Matsui, A-Rod, and Damon finally got to hoist the big trophy. The three players endured so much criticism along with the other Yankees for their previous mediocre playoff heroics. A franchise with so much promise and expectations, it was not easy for these players with high payrolls to hide during the post season. The enduring of carrying that monkey would have driven most players away. So many years of great regular seasons to only falter in the playoffs.
Was it time to overhaul the whole team, was asked many times. Johnny Damon captured a title with the Red Sox in 2004. However he missed the next World Series Red Sox title along with his beard and mustache when he was bought by the Yankees prior to Boston winning it all in 2007. Hideki (Godzilla) Matsui, Japan’s bomber, brought an entourage of reporters from the rising sun and Alex Rodrigues the best shortstop counterpart to Derek Jeter was brought over from the Texas Rangers. All players had high expectations from the New York fans to help the veteran players win a couple of championships immediately.
For these three players there was much pressure to not only win but to win it all every year. The window was vanishing and closing on their careers as they aged. It looked like the elusive Yankee World Series Championship ring was not meant to be for them. In the 2009 series it was fitting, that the three MAD players produced the offense to complement the pitching and came clutch in this World Series. Matsui in game six recorded six RBI’s tying a New York record for RBI’s in a world series game. Matsui would be named MVP for the series as he hit over 600% and three homers . Damon was key in game three and four in getting on and stealing bases along with a homer. A-Rod, was on fire in the NLCS. However, once the world series started and he got off to a slow start, some doubters were exclaiming, “here we go again, another inept series for the Yankees”. Reporters would say, “good pitching but where’s the million dollar offense?” However in game three A-Rod let it loose and continued his tear again, bringing in a valuable game go ahead RBI.
It is hard to imagine the team winning without the MAD bunch. Next year Matsui and Damon may be gone through free agency. It is too bad most fans of the World Series never understood the value of these two players over the years. Most only got to see them or track them on their previous World Series performances. However, they played a huge part in helping the Yankees reach the playoffs almost every year. It’s been that kind of year for the Yankees. In with the new (Stadium, AJ Burnett, Teixeira, Sabathia), shine with the old (Matsui, A-Rod, Damon), and reminding everyone of the past. (Pettitte, Rivera, Posada, Jeter)
Monday, October 19, 2009
Victorino Passes Schmidt
When Shane Victorino hit his three run homer on Sunday (10.18.09) against the Dodgers in the NLCS he surpassed legendary Phillie Mike Schmidt for Postseason RBI’s. Victorino has 18 RBI’s and is the second all time Philadelphia Phillie for post season RBI's next to team mate Ryan Howard (22 RBI).
When you think about that stat, it is amazing to think about Victorino being in the same conversation to Hall of Famer Schmidt who held the record all these years. For Hawaii’s Victorino it confirms the versatility of the flying Hawaiian and the success of Philadelphia's six through nine hitters getting on base. A top of the line up hitter, who can get on base, steal and get in scoring position, has some power to bring in runs also. Was he worth the money he just signed for? The season thus far, says he may be deserving more! Let’s cheer for Shane who is making Hawaii proud.
When you think about that stat, it is amazing to think about Victorino being in the same conversation to Hall of Famer Schmidt who held the record all these years. For Hawaii’s Victorino it confirms the versatility of the flying Hawaiian and the success of Philadelphia's six through nine hitters getting on base. A top of the line up hitter, who can get on base, steal and get in scoring position, has some power to bring in runs also. Was he worth the money he just signed for? The season thus far, says he may be deserving more! Let’s cheer for Shane who is making Hawaii proud.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Tell Me It Isn't So Joe?
So Who Is Next?
Big Poppy is the latest name to surface regarding the steroid era in baseball. Team mate Manny Ramirez’ name surfaced in a positive test result in an early 2000 random test. Later this year Ramirez was suspended for another suspect substance, while he relegated to denying the report. Now Poppy is saying he must of picked the substance up from a nutrition store? Okay let’s count few of the marquee players who are suspected thus far; Manny, Poppy, Sammy, Mark, Barry, Roger, Miguel, Alex, and on and on and on…… “Tell me it isn’t so Joe?” Are we not tired of hearing these allegations? Fans are mixed in the argument. Some say, “let’s move on”, other say. “Foul ball”, others say “Eject the #@%** cheaters”.
Poor pitchers who played it fair in the monsteroid era
We’ll it is water under the bridge or is it? Huge salaries have been paid, media hypotrophy (made huge amounts with TV ratings and home run race), and most of the money already spent, Championships won (Boston Red Sox), and records broken. But no one is mentioning, the ones who played fair and did not do the same. Remember the ones who had good seasons but were forgotten (Ken Griffey Jr and Greg Vaughn), due to the outrageous numbers the cheaters were putting up. Or what about the ones who had talent and promise but did not compromise but were let go and not signed. Poor pitchers who played it fair in the monsteroid era, their ERA’s got hammered. Many pitchers got the boot from baseball due to the steroid cheaters.
We’ll the freak show is over, No one is even coming close to sixty homers a year, and we see the scales tipping back to the youth again. Older pitchers body’s breaking down more frequently (like the old times –normally). Remember the hype supporters? They were quick to blame made in China baseballs, pitching talent decline, the small ballparks and thin air of expansion team's location like Colorado.
Steroid use has declined since, so has the numbers. If there are large aberrations in stats one way or another, we better suspect something is not right. If it looks to good to be true it usually is… In this case we were all duped.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Maui Basketball Camp A Success!
WAILUKU, Maui - 2009 marked another great summer for the Maui Sports Academy’s Hawaii High School Basketball Exposure Camp, solidifying it once again as the number one basketball camp in the state of Hawaii.
55 (five over the advertised camp capacity) of the state’s top players representing all five interscholastic federations and the top programs such as Iolani, Kamehameha-Kapalama, Punahou, Kalaheo, Kailua, Radford and Baldwin participated in the weeklong overnight camp held at the Lahaina Civic Center, the longtime home of the Maui Invitational college basketball tournament.
The camp included four Players of the Year; Lincoln Seto (MIL, Baldwin), Dakota Allen (BIIF, Waiakea), Darrell Lee (OIA Red West, Radford) and Christian Mendonza (OIA White West, Waianae) as well as Kainoa Chu (1st team ILH, Iolani), Marcus Monroe (1st Team OIA, Moanalua), Angelo Berardy (1st Team OIA, Kalani) and Dylan King and Michael Palmer (1st Team MIL DII, Seabury Hall), among others.
The camp again boasted a stellar coaching staff, which included former Iolani and Washington State University standout Derrick Low, as well as two other Hawaii high school graduates currently playing at mainland universities; Cody Tesoro (Baldwin/Linfield College) and Justin Endo (Seabury Hall/Webster University).
Mainland college coaches included Kaniela Aiona, formerly of the Big Island, of Lake Forrest College (IL), Casey Kushiyama, formerly of Oahu, of Whitworth University (OR), Mike Siener of Webster University (MO), Chad Lance of Missouri Valley College, Jim Herrera of Foothill College (CA), Steven Taylor of Linfield College (OR) along with camp director Alan Walls.
At the conclusion of the camp championship teams were crowned and various camp award winners were honored. The top prize was the Camper of the Week award which goes to not only one of the top players at the camp but also one that displays a great work ethic, self-discipline and a high level of character. In what was a tough vote by the coaches, the 2009 COW award went to Andrew Skalman of Iolani School.
The Coach of the Week award was given to camp rookie and MVC head coach Chad Lance. Coach Lance showed great enthusiasm all week and really got the campers excited about playing basketball.
The Lunch Box award, given to the camp’s hardest worker who competes and practices with a blue-collar work ethic and “brings his lunch box to work everyday,” was given to camp veteran Richard Handy of Keaau High School on the Big Island.
Participating in the annual Camp All-Star Game were: Lincoln Seto (Baldwin), Mitchel Shintani (Waiakea), Dean Viena (St. Louis), Darrell Lee, Michael Palmer, Micha Dunhour (Honokaa), Jacob Mayer (Maryknoll), Malik Johnson (Punahou), Dylan King, Mike Tuiloma (St. Louis), Kainoa Chu, Chris Gambill (Honokaa), Richard Handy and Andrew Skalman. Point Guard Michael Palmer was named the All-Star Game MVP.
The 5-on-5 League Champions were coached by Steven Taylor and Cody Tesoro and led by team MVP Andrew Skalman. Also on the team were: Darrell Lee, Michael Foster (Waianae), Frank Ho (KS-Kapalama), Theo Duplechain (Island Pacific), Bradey Norman (King Kekaulike), Hunter Lee (St. Joseph) and Dakota Allen.
Taking home the 3-on-3 League Championship were Darrell Lee, Tevin Togami (Le Jardin), Quentin Kimura (Radford) and Garrett Wiseman (Seabury Hall).
Without a doubt the 5-day camp was a huge success and all 55 campers and 10 coaches did an outstanding job, continuing to improve on the success of the previous camps and setting the bar high for next summer’s campers.
Yours in hoops,
Alan Walls
Owner/Camp Director - Maui Sports Academy
1419 Kilohi Street
Wailuku, Hawaii 96793
Friday, June 12, 2009
Economic Times Just an Excuse To Pass Leagues Wish List
The HIADA meetings are in full swing and reported is the attempt to cut down the state tournament field from 12 to 8 teams. On the surface it looks like the state athletic directors have benevolent pursuits in this change. However, it is no secret that the larger Oahu leagues have always wanted to cut the field down since the birth of the new division II championship tournament. The main goal of these Oahu leagues is to make the division I tournament an eight team elite tournament. With such a small field, the tournament could be done in three days. Sounds like a real cost cutting move to save an extra day.
The cost of travel for outer island teams to the HHSAA tournaments the last couple of years have been funded by the parents and fundraisers not the leagues themselves. So there is no significant savings in cost reduction. This field reduction only alleviates the hardship on outer island parents.
But if you were to ask the parents if they would have it any other way, they would gladly tell you they very much would honor such an achievement and raise the funds appropriately some way.
Ask the HHSAA if they reduce the field, then align it this way; two berths for the BIIF, MIL, OIA and ILH for division I and the same for division II with KIF added and one ILH berth eliminated. There would be so much opposition from the ILH and the OIA.
The HHSAA tournament is about showcasing the states best league teams and getting a good cross section of teams represented. It is not about having the best 12 or 8 teams in the state. This should not be the goal of the tournament.
Again, let us not use the economic issue as an excuse to pass hidden agendas of the past.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Tagalicod set to play for another Coach Cooper
Vicky Tagalicod, the BIIF’s most prominent female basketball player to dawn a Hilo High Viking uniform leaves for California in a few weeks. She will take some summer courses and expect to train at the multi million dollar sports facility at USC. USC Women’s Coach Mark Trakh resigned and was replaced by Michael Cooper.
Cooper comes with a lot of playing and coaching experience. Cooper played for the vaunted “Showtime” Los Angeles Lakers of the 80’s, where he helped them win five NBA Championships. His NBA career lasted 12 years as he played with players like Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Kurt Rambis and James Worthy. Cooper was known for his defensive skills and was instrumental in shutting down the Lakers opponents’ best scorer. Cooper takes over a USC Women’s program that was 17-12 and reached the conference finals. Cooper also coached in the WNBA where he guided the Los Angeles Sparks to two WNBA Championships in 2001-02. Cooper who has spoken to Tagalicod expects much from the much heralded freshman. Tagalicod was a three time all State first team player and also a fab 15 state selection. She also was named first team BIIF three years. While playing for Hilo High School, she played three years for assistant coach Gary Cooper (no relation). Gary Cooper was also a good defensive specialist in his playing days. Maybe the two Coopers share more common than we know. For Tagalicod it will be a great opportunity to play for a coach who has played on championship teams and also coached champions
Cooper comes with a lot of playing and coaching experience. Cooper played for the vaunted “Showtime” Los Angeles Lakers of the 80’s, where he helped them win five NBA Championships. His NBA career lasted 12 years as he played with players like Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Kurt Rambis and James Worthy. Cooper was known for his defensive skills and was instrumental in shutting down the Lakers opponents’ best scorer. Cooper takes over a USC Women’s program that was 17-12 and reached the conference finals. Cooper also coached in the WNBA where he guided the Los Angeles Sparks to two WNBA Championships in 2001-02. Cooper who has spoken to Tagalicod expects much from the much heralded freshman. Tagalicod was a three time all State first team player and also a fab 15 state selection. She also was named first team BIIF three years. While playing for Hilo High School, she played three years for assistant coach Gary Cooper (no relation). Gary Cooper was also a good defensive specialist in his playing days. Maybe the two Coopers share more common than we know. For Tagalicod it will be a great opportunity to play for a coach who has played on championship teams and also coached champions
Monday, June 1, 2009
Edwards and Dela Cruz Brought Out the Best In Each Other
Dela Cruz sat out his senior year in basketball where he lettered on the varsity squad last year. He wanted to concentrate on track where he had a promising future. Dela Cruz bolstered Hilo High into capturing the HHSAA boys’ bronze team medal (3rd place overall). That was the highest finish for a BIIF school in many years.
All year Dela Cruz and Edwards were neck to neck in competition and changed slots several times at different meets. Both outdistanced the next closest competitors in the BIIF. If it were not for this rivalry, both would have not recorded these best times.
In essence they pushed themselves to the HHSAA one- two finish….in both events.
Dela Cruz also has ties to the small rural district of Ka’u. Thomas’ father Thomas Dela Cruz senior was a multi sport athlete and amateur boxer from Naalehu and graduated from Ka’u High School.
Like champion boxers Thomas Hearns, Sugar Ray Leonard and Marvin Hagler, Edwards and Dela Cruz needed each other to bring their game to new heights.
Coming out of the small district has been only a small hurdle for these sensational athletes.
Ka'u Connection is Solid -Hawaii Sports Page -Must Read, Athlete ties to the small district
Friday, May 22, 2009
Nakoa and Edwards Shine In HHSAA Track & Field
It was a shining HHSAA meet for BIIF Track & Field qualifiers this past 2009 HHSAA Championships. Ku’uipo Nakoa and Jacob Edwards captured gold for their schools and the BIIF.
The BIIF captured over 34 individual and team medals (1st-6th place). Nakoa captured the Girls Long Jump gold, while Edwards won two golds in the Boys 110 & 300 Hurdle Events. With Nakoa and Edwards returning next year, the future looks bright for the BIIF. Having a familiar bed to rest and home cooked meals always is an advantage as most BIIF track and field athletes found out.
It is always harder to win an HHSAA event on the road. Nakoa and Edwards are multi sport talented athletes, Nakoa also participates in soccer for HPA and Edwards has participated for the Ka’u football team. Also both have entered several events including the triple jump, and sprinting events. Let us congratulate all the BIIF Track and Field Athletes for their tremendous efforts and accomplishments. For list of HHSAA medalists from BIIF go to: HSP Track
The BIIF captured over 34 individual and team medals (1st-6th place). Nakoa captured the Girls Long Jump gold, while Edwards won two golds in the Boys 110 & 300 Hurdle Events. With Nakoa and Edwards returning next year, the future looks bright for the BIIF. Having a familiar bed to rest and home cooked meals always is an advantage as most BIIF track and field athletes found out.
It is always harder to win an HHSAA event on the road. Nakoa and Edwards are multi sport talented athletes, Nakoa also participates in soccer for HPA and Edwards has participated for the Ka’u football team. Also both have entered several events including the triple jump, and sprinting events. Let us congratulate all the BIIF Track and Field Athletes for their tremendous efforts and accomplishments. For list of HHSAA medalists from BIIF go to: HSP Track
Friday, May 1, 2009
UHH vs. HPU Ignites Hitting Fireworks
Former BIIF players Cheyene Hirota and Blake Amaral feasted on the Vulcan pitching in last weekends six game series between the HPU and UHH. Hirota a former Waiakea high standout and All BIIF Amaral were recognized for their recent accomplishments.
Amaral leads the HPU baseball team (as of 04/27) with 38 RBI’s an impressive feat as a freshman. He collected a total 15 RBI’s in the six game series. Amaral broke an HPU record for most RBI’s in a game with 10 in game three. He had one of those special days at the plate going 4 for 5 with a grand slam and triple. He also went 4 for 5 in game five with another two RBI’s.
Hirota was not to be outdone by his Big Island team mate as he outdid Amaral with 17 RBI’s. Hirota went 12 for 20 for the series posting five RBI’s in game 2. He also went 4 for 4 in game six with another 3 RBI’s. For batting over 600% he was chosen as PAC West Baseball Player Of The Week. Hirota also hit a homerun in the same game Amaral hit his. Hirota also had eight runs scored on top of his other impressive weeks accomplishments.
UHH’s Keoni Manago also had a great series as he batted over 652% going 15 for 23 with seven RBI’s. He went 4 for 5 in game two and a pair of 3 for 4 games and hitting 4 for 4 in the fifth game. Manago got serious consideration for PacWest player of the Week honors.
Also of pitching note, Vulcan pitcher Kekoa Lee was honored as PacWest pitcher of the week for his complete game in game 3 giving up no earned runs and seven strikouts. Against the potent bats of HPU, that is an accomplishment. Although HPU won the series 4-2, we can’t wait till next year for these home and home challenges.
Above Photo: HPU's Blake Amaral with Friend Ryan Fukunaga (Hilo High 09) at a Football Game at Aloha Stadium in October 2008
Amaral leads the HPU baseball team (as of 04/27) with 38 RBI’s an impressive feat as a freshman. He collected a total 15 RBI’s in the six game series. Amaral broke an HPU record for most RBI’s in a game with 10 in game three. He had one of those special days at the plate going 4 for 5 with a grand slam and triple. He also went 4 for 5 in game five with another two RBI’s.
Hirota was not to be outdone by his Big Island team mate as he outdid Amaral with 17 RBI’s. Hirota went 12 for 20 for the series posting five RBI’s in game 2. He also went 4 for 4 in game six with another 3 RBI’s. For batting over 600% he was chosen as PAC West Baseball Player Of The Week. Hirota also hit a homerun in the same game Amaral hit his. Hirota also had eight runs scored on top of his other impressive weeks accomplishments.
UHH’s Keoni Manago also had a great series as he batted over 652% going 15 for 23 with seven RBI’s. He went 4 for 5 in game two and a pair of 3 for 4 games and hitting 4 for 4 in the fifth game. Manago got serious consideration for PacWest player of the Week honors.
Also of pitching note, Vulcan pitcher Kekoa Lee was honored as PacWest pitcher of the week for his complete game in game 3 giving up no earned runs and seven strikouts. Against the potent bats of HPU, that is an accomplishment. Although HPU won the series 4-2, we can’t wait till next year for these home and home challenges.
Above Photo: HPU's Blake Amaral with Friend Ryan Fukunaga (Hilo High 09) at a Football Game at Aloha Stadium in October 2008
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Jack Gifford Was A Big Island Philanthropist
Jack Gifford who was the major contributor to the Kalae Iki baseball Clinics died of an apparent heart attack on January 13th, 2009. Gifford amassed a fortune in the analog chip industry and founded the chip maker company Maxim Integrated Products.
Gifford graduated from UCLA and invited many of the Division I coaches whom he developed a relationship with. He was instrumental in getting them here and making the Kalae Iki Baseball Clinic one of Hawaii’s premiere baseball clinics.
The foundations of Jack Gifford and Betty Kanuha, Joey Estrella (UHH Vulcan Baseball Coach), and the County of Hawaii gave Hawaii youths exposure to some of the top notch college minds. His monetary contribution to this camp made it possible for these coaches and their families to enjoy the Kona and Waikoloa coast while giving baseball players in Hawaii first notch information.
Division I coaches like Sam Piraro (San Jose State), Mark Marques (Stanford), Mark O’Brien (Santa Clara), John Savage (UCLA), Tom Myers (UC Santa Barbara), Ed Sprague (Pacific University), and Chad Konishi (UH Pitching Coach) made it an annual summer trek to the Big Island. This made it the most potent, concentration of baseball minds to assemble in Hawaii at the same time.
The clinic also helped parents in preparing students for possibly playing at the college level. The Clinic also had a message for kids to keep your grades up and make use of your time wisely and not waste it on things like; TV, IPOD, cell phones and other modern distractions.
Gifford earned a scholarship to play baseball at UCLA where he played alongside former head coach Gary Adams, whom made it to the Kalae Iki camp. Gifford also generously supported the University of Hawaii-Hilo baseball program, as well as several California college baseball programs including; Stanford, California, Santa Clara, San Jose State, and UCLA.
Gifford most recently funded the construction of the UCLA’s Jack and Rhodine Gifford Hitting Facility, a state of the art batting practice complex on the campus of UCLA.
The Giffords whom have a home in Kona loved the Big Island and spent most of their time here. The baseball clinic will probably continue but Kona has lost one of it’s most giving individuals and baseball has lost one of it's most passionate ambassadors.
Gifford was 68, and is survived by wife Rhodine, and three daughters – Laural Lynch, Tracy Jones, and Jacquelyn Disney.
Gifford graduated from UCLA and invited many of the Division I coaches whom he developed a relationship with. He was instrumental in getting them here and making the Kalae Iki Baseball Clinic one of Hawaii’s premiere baseball clinics.
The foundations of Jack Gifford and Betty Kanuha, Joey Estrella (UHH Vulcan Baseball Coach), and the County of Hawaii gave Hawaii youths exposure to some of the top notch college minds. His monetary contribution to this camp made it possible for these coaches and their families to enjoy the Kona and Waikoloa coast while giving baseball players in Hawaii first notch information.
Division I coaches like Sam Piraro (San Jose State), Mark Marques (Stanford), Mark O’Brien (Santa Clara), John Savage (UCLA), Tom Myers (UC Santa Barbara), Ed Sprague (Pacific University), and Chad Konishi (UH Pitching Coach) made it an annual summer trek to the Big Island. This made it the most potent, concentration of baseball minds to assemble in Hawaii at the same time.
The clinic also helped parents in preparing students for possibly playing at the college level. The Clinic also had a message for kids to keep your grades up and make use of your time wisely and not waste it on things like; TV, IPOD, cell phones and other modern distractions.
Gifford earned a scholarship to play baseball at UCLA where he played alongside former head coach Gary Adams, whom made it to the Kalae Iki camp. Gifford also generously supported the University of Hawaii-Hilo baseball program, as well as several California college baseball programs including; Stanford, California, Santa Clara, San Jose State, and UCLA.
Gifford most recently funded the construction of the UCLA’s Jack and Rhodine Gifford Hitting Facility, a state of the art batting practice complex on the campus of UCLA.
The Giffords whom have a home in Kona loved the Big Island and spent most of their time here. The baseball clinic will probably continue but Kona has lost one of it’s most giving individuals and baseball has lost one of it's most passionate ambassadors.
Gifford was 68, and is survived by wife Rhodine, and three daughters – Laural Lynch, Tracy Jones, and Jacquelyn Disney.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Kudo's To The King
Pole Vaulting in Hawaii may not be a huge sport or have a huge following, but at Hilo High School it is large. Hilo High Track coaches Bill McMahon and Sherman Viernes have coached the State’s best.
Last year HHSAA girls pole vault champion Daysha Viernes (Hilo High 08) put girls pole vault on the map in the BIIF. Pole Vaulting has virtually no large following here in the BIIF and escapes most sports fans in general. However, pole vaulting requires upper body strength, quick running ability, timing and a strong back and core. In other words the whole body working in harmony. Hilo High school track program now is priming two of the best Pole Vaulters in the BIIF for an HHSAA title, David King and Scott Hunter. David King just cleared an amazing 15 feet. Just how large of a vault is that? Well, consider that the 2009 HHSAA Track high for the pole vault was 12’-06”. The 15'-0" feet is a whopping 2’-06” higher than that mark. That jump is considered a BIIF record (could not verify this). Now the last time we checked the national pole vaulting record for high school is 18’-03”. Now 15 feet is not very far off. Could this be the beginning of new records for Hawaii? Let’s wish the best for Scott Hunter, David King, of Hilo High and Caleb Friel of Kamehameha in their quest to pole vault the BIIF on to new heights!!
Last year HHSAA girls pole vault champion Daysha Viernes (Hilo High 08) put girls pole vault on the map in the BIIF. Pole Vaulting has virtually no large following here in the BIIF and escapes most sports fans in general. However, pole vaulting requires upper body strength, quick running ability, timing and a strong back and core. In other words the whole body working in harmony. Hilo High school track program now is priming two of the best Pole Vaulters in the BIIF for an HHSAA title, David King and Scott Hunter. David King just cleared an amazing 15 feet. Just how large of a vault is that? Well, consider that the 2009 HHSAA Track high for the pole vault was 12’-06”. The 15'-0" feet is a whopping 2’-06” higher than that mark. That jump is considered a BIIF record (could not verify this). Now the last time we checked the national pole vaulting record for high school is 18’-03”. Now 15 feet is not very far off. Could this be the beginning of new records for Hawaii? Let’s wish the best for Scott Hunter, David King, of Hilo High and Caleb Friel of Kamehameha in their quest to pole vault the BIIF on to new heights!!
Monday, March 16, 2009
Wong Launches UH Into Sweep Of LMU
Kolten Wong of Hilo hit three homers Sunday (March 15) to assist the UH offense to a 6-5 victory over Loyola Marymount University. What is the significance of this monumental feat? Well Kolten Wong has never hit more than two homers since T-Ball. Even as a potent batter in High School, he has never hit more than two.
Les Murakami Stadium has never seen the likes. A pitcher’s ball park that has always deterred right handed high school prospects into not coming to UH. We may be seeing something special in Wong becoming a prolific college hitter. His dad (Kaha Wong) has instructed him since he could walk and he has coached some of the best BIIF players including Blake Amaral (HPU) and Kevin Seaver (Chico State). In fact some current BIIF players on the Hilo High team are currently being scouted by MLB teams due to his part in teaching the hard hitting style to these players.
Now, we must give some credit to the current UH hitting instructor, coach Komeiji. Of course it is not the easiest situation for coach Komeiji, when you have a successful hitting father and instructor. Rumors have it, that they have had their differences already. You could see a difference in the elbow being tucked in on Wong this season versus last year’s high school season. His elbow was more in a power position feasting on slower paced high school pitching.
However, the reason for the change, has gotten him ready for the high 80- 90 mph pitching he is going to see on a regular basis playing Division I baseball. UH fans don’t care who gets the credit, we just love the way the team is playing and how some little power on the top of the line up creates winning!
Les Murakami Stadium has never seen the likes. A pitcher’s ball park that has always deterred right handed high school prospects into not coming to UH. We may be seeing something special in Wong becoming a prolific college hitter. His dad (Kaha Wong) has instructed him since he could walk and he has coached some of the best BIIF players including Blake Amaral (HPU) and Kevin Seaver (Chico State). In fact some current BIIF players on the Hilo High team are currently being scouted by MLB teams due to his part in teaching the hard hitting style to these players.
Now, we must give some credit to the current UH hitting instructor, coach Komeiji. Of course it is not the easiest situation for coach Komeiji, when you have a successful hitting father and instructor. Rumors have it, that they have had their differences already. You could see a difference in the elbow being tucked in on Wong this season versus last year’s high school season. His elbow was more in a power position feasting on slower paced high school pitching.
However, the reason for the change, has gotten him ready for the high 80- 90 mph pitching he is going to see on a regular basis playing Division I baseball. UH fans don’t care who gets the credit, we just love the way the team is playing and how some little power on the top of the line up creates winning!
Saturday, March 7, 2009
DeRego and Mins Proved Champions
It wasn’t long ago that Pii Mins and Auwae DeRego from the Kamehameha-Kapalama 2009 HHSAA Champions were treking along with Uncle Randy Gambil (Honokaa Asst Coach), as Coach Gambil was taking them to some of the top 3 on 3 tournaments on the Big Island. Auwae Derego, Pii Mins, Chris Gambil, Ho'okela Freitas and Mika Nikel (HPA & Honokaa) were the team Waimea Knights. Mins also came to Hilo for the Winter Classic hosted by the County of Hawaii and put together by Hi-Pal coordinator Dennis “Fresh” Onishi. Mins played for the team “Hoops Pa’ain’a" coached by Jeff Won. Jeff Won won every tournament on Oahu, and the Big Island and went on to win many tournaments in Las Vegas and Japan. The parents of that Hoops Pa’ina team worked hard at some of the UH Basketball game concessions making it affordable to travel to Japan. Won’s team players dismantled into high school with Mins going to Kamehameha-Kapalama and some players going to Mid Pacific. Mins’ teams had some classic matches with the Gameboyz Basketball programs coached by David Aspili, Wade Ishibashi, Steve Fukunaga, and Kaimi Chung, a program of Big Island players including Kawika Cazimero, Vicky Tagalicod, Makana Cazimero, Ryan Fukunaga, Isaac Chung, Haku Ishibashi, Matthew Libao.
Hoops Pa’aina and the Gameboyz made it to the title game of the 2001 Honoulu Hi-Pal Christmas Classic. Hoops Pa’ina would also have classic match ups and lose to the Bears team coached by Mark Saito. That Bears team included, TJ Yasuhara, Collin Cabatbat, Chandler Kaaa, Hogan Rosehill, and Ryan Higa. Mins and DeRego showed much promise already at that young age.
DeRego travelled the road to Kamehameha-Kapalama then to Honokaa High School and then back to Kamehameha-Kapalama. A tragic fishing accident claimed the life Auwae’s brother, a life changing event that made Auwae more determined and focused to better his life and play with purpose. You could see that in Auwae’s game this weekend. Although he was not the offensive scoring machine, you knew he was the physical leader that Kamehameha needed to overcome the bigger and taller Kahuku. De Rego’s inside presence along with team mate Micah Chritiansen was a force that altered the finishing Red Raiders shots.
Micah Christiansen is the son of Bob Christiansen and Charlene Kahuanui UHH Volleball standout. Charlene Kahuanui-Christiansen was a member of the 1981 NAIA and AIAW Champions. Both met while being student athletes here in Hilo. Kahuku had one of the best OIA teams in many moon and it was a classic match up with Kamehameha-Kapalama. Jray Galeai one of the most athletically gifted players to come out of Kahuku since Junior Ale, did some awesome things in the HHSAA tourney. Nehoa Akina also shown some shooting brilliance for the Red Raiders. However, it was Mins, DeRego, Christiansen and all of the Warriors that came through at the end to cap off a memorable basketball season.
It was fun to watch these young athletes grow up in front of the Big Island eyes and exciting to watch them capture a most deserving championship trophy!
Hoops Pa’aina and the Gameboyz made it to the title game of the 2001 Honoulu Hi-Pal Christmas Classic. Hoops Pa’ina would also have classic match ups and lose to the Bears team coached by Mark Saito. That Bears team included, TJ Yasuhara, Collin Cabatbat, Chandler Kaaa, Hogan Rosehill, and Ryan Higa. Mins and DeRego showed much promise already at that young age.
DeRego travelled the road to Kamehameha-Kapalama then to Honokaa High School and then back to Kamehameha-Kapalama. A tragic fishing accident claimed the life Auwae’s brother, a life changing event that made Auwae more determined and focused to better his life and play with purpose. You could see that in Auwae’s game this weekend. Although he was not the offensive scoring machine, you knew he was the physical leader that Kamehameha needed to overcome the bigger and taller Kahuku. De Rego’s inside presence along with team mate Micah Chritiansen was a force that altered the finishing Red Raiders shots.
Micah Christiansen is the son of Bob Christiansen and Charlene Kahuanui UHH Volleball standout. Charlene Kahuanui-Christiansen was a member of the 1981 NAIA and AIAW Champions. Both met while being student athletes here in Hilo. Kahuku had one of the best OIA teams in many moon and it was a classic match up with Kamehameha-Kapalama. Jray Galeai one of the most athletically gifted players to come out of Kahuku since Junior Ale, did some awesome things in the HHSAA tourney. Nehoa Akina also shown some shooting brilliance for the Red Raiders. However, it was Mins, DeRego, Christiansen and all of the Warriors that came through at the end to cap off a memorable basketball season.
It was fun to watch these young athletes grow up in front of the Big Island eyes and exciting to watch them capture a most deserving championship trophy!
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Konawaena Won Championship With 24/7 Mentality
The Wildcat program of Konawaena hoists up, yet another HHSAA Girls Basketball trophy. How fitting for a program that has defied the odds that population counts. In a smaller population market such as upper mauka Kona and Kealakekua areas of the Big Island, Konawaena has overachieved. The 2009 HHSAA Championship was won several months ago. The High School season is just a continuation of the program the Wildcats have.
The Awa’s (Bobbie and Donnie) started the Stingrays several years ago and is the nucleus of the Wildcats success. With now an army of coaches and alumni (boys and girls) helping, the program may reach a pinnacle of supremacy in the whole state.
The girls enter several tournaments throughout the year and practice religiously, and that includes Sunday, in which the Konawaena gym is opened up for the community to hone their skills. The Onizuka gym is filled with Wildcats and Wildcat wannabes, most times numbering close to 40-50 players.
The Girls always play with and against the Konawaena (Stingray) boys. This has made the girls more physical and play at a quicker pace offensively and defensively.
The high school season (3 months) is just a blip in the Wildcats all year round 24/7 basketball game and practice schedule the Stingrays program provides. The system works, and evolved due to the low number of basketball teams (youth and feeder teams) the West side of the Big Island has. The East side (Hilo, Hamakua, Puna) out numbers the West side of the island in terms of players and youth teams. The East side probably has 5-8 times more youth teams than the West side. That is where the Awa's had to be creative and evolve and make their program 24/7. But what evolved is a more concentrated group of dedicated and committed players than the larger groups on the Eastside. The Eastside youth teams funnel into more teams (Hilo, Waiakea, Keaau, St Joseph and Kamehameha), thus the players don't have the same continuity and chemistry that the Stingrays have, with the exceptions of Honokaa (Paauilo) and Pahoa.
The Awa family also has taken advantage of every basketball event the Big Island offers, including the 3 on 3 tournament the County and New Hope puts on. Every club tournament on the Eastside almost always has a team from the Stingrays. The World Youth Basketball Tourney (high school division) hosted in Konawaena has been a training ground for the 7-8th grade players. The Stingrays have gone to Oahu, Maui and Las Vegas and other states pursuing experience and skill enhancing.
The Stingrays have used local resources such as former UHH Coach Jimmy Yagi and skills coach Dennis Agena to give their community a taste of some of the best basketball minds in the State. Their program is ohana. When they travel to Hilo for a tournament, they usually stay at a hotel for the weekend sharing rooms and meals together, becoming closer, and actually that is the secret. The bond and chemistry they have for each other is phenomenal. Some of the Stingrays have played together for 10-13 years since they were five. You can’t coach that.
The Wildcat program eats, sleeps and plays basketball together 24/7, a recipe to success!
The Awa’s (Bobbie and Donnie) started the Stingrays several years ago and is the nucleus of the Wildcats success. With now an army of coaches and alumni (boys and girls) helping, the program may reach a pinnacle of supremacy in the whole state.
The girls enter several tournaments throughout the year and practice religiously, and that includes Sunday, in which the Konawaena gym is opened up for the community to hone their skills. The Onizuka gym is filled with Wildcats and Wildcat wannabes, most times numbering close to 40-50 players.
The Girls always play with and against the Konawaena (Stingray) boys. This has made the girls more physical and play at a quicker pace offensively and defensively.
The high school season (3 months) is just a blip in the Wildcats all year round 24/7 basketball game and practice schedule the Stingrays program provides. The system works, and evolved due to the low number of basketball teams (youth and feeder teams) the West side of the Big Island has. The East side (Hilo, Hamakua, Puna) out numbers the West side of the island in terms of players and youth teams. The East side probably has 5-8 times more youth teams than the West side. That is where the Awa's had to be creative and evolve and make their program 24/7. But what evolved is a more concentrated group of dedicated and committed players than the larger groups on the Eastside. The Eastside youth teams funnel into more teams (Hilo, Waiakea, Keaau, St Joseph and Kamehameha), thus the players don't have the same continuity and chemistry that the Stingrays have, with the exceptions of Honokaa (Paauilo) and Pahoa.
The Awa family also has taken advantage of every basketball event the Big Island offers, including the 3 on 3 tournament the County and New Hope puts on. Every club tournament on the Eastside almost always has a team from the Stingrays. The World Youth Basketball Tourney (high school division) hosted in Konawaena has been a training ground for the 7-8th grade players. The Stingrays have gone to Oahu, Maui and Las Vegas and other states pursuing experience and skill enhancing.
The Stingrays have used local resources such as former UHH Coach Jimmy Yagi and skills coach Dennis Agena to give their community a taste of some of the best basketball minds in the State. Their program is ohana. When they travel to Hilo for a tournament, they usually stay at a hotel for the weekend sharing rooms and meals together, becoming closer, and actually that is the secret. The bond and chemistry they have for each other is phenomenal. Some of the Stingrays have played together for 10-13 years since they were five. You can’t coach that.
The Wildcat program eats, sleeps and plays basketball together 24/7, a recipe to success!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Hirota and Amaral Leading Charge of HPU in Hilo Homecoming
Cheynne Hirota and Blake Amaral will be having some home cooking, family hugs and handshakes with friends and relatives this weekend when they take on the UHH Vulcans. Cheynne Hirota has come full circle and is having a monster senior year for the Sea Warriors.
First Baseman Hirota a Waiakea High baseball standout is one of HPU’s leading hitters thus far in 2009, posting 15 hits in 22 at bats for a hefty 682 batting average. Hirota has also scored eight runs. Before transferring to HPU, Hirota took the JUCO route going to Shoreline Community College in Washington playing for Coach Steve Seki, former Hawaii resident. In Washington, Hirota performed and made first team for the NWAACC North Division. Last season for the Sea Warriors, Hirota batted .270 with 6 doubles, one home run and 20 RBI’s. He started in 24 games as a junior.
Former Kamehameha Warrior, Amaral has broken into the starting lineup as the left fielder. He is batting .370 with 10 hits in 27 at bats while batting in 9 RBI’s. Amaral has had to make an adjustment in left field, where he will be utilized on defense. Amaral was a first team selection for the BIIF last year and was the Warriors one two punch with team mate Kolten Wong (UH, CF).
Royce Ebesu (Hilo High 07) is also on the HPU roster and will add pitching depth to the Sea Warriors. Other former BIIF players on the Vulcan roster in this weeks six game marathon are Mathew Hassenritter (Hilo 05), John Holley Jr (Pahoa 07), Casey Koizumi (Hilo 07), Sheldon Otsuka (Waiakea 06), and Cade Uyetake (Hilo 07). Hassenritter is enjoying a fast start and is hitting .417, with 10 hits in 24 at bats. Otsuka a Waiakea standout, also took the JUCO route similar to Hirota and also performed successfully at Hartnell College in California before transferring back to UH-Hilo. Otsuka will be counted on to provide depth to the Vulcan pitching staff along with Koizumi and Holley whom seen action last season as freshmen. For BIIF fans it will be an interesting homecoming for former BIIF baseball players and supporters. Let’s enjoy it!
First Baseman Hirota a Waiakea High baseball standout is one of HPU’s leading hitters thus far in 2009, posting 15 hits in 22 at bats for a hefty 682 batting average. Hirota has also scored eight runs. Before transferring to HPU, Hirota took the JUCO route going to Shoreline Community College in Washington playing for Coach Steve Seki, former Hawaii resident. In Washington, Hirota performed and made first team for the NWAACC North Division. Last season for the Sea Warriors, Hirota batted .270 with 6 doubles, one home run and 20 RBI’s. He started in 24 games as a junior.
Former Kamehameha Warrior, Amaral has broken into the starting lineup as the left fielder. He is batting .370 with 10 hits in 27 at bats while batting in 9 RBI’s. Amaral has had to make an adjustment in left field, where he will be utilized on defense. Amaral was a first team selection for the BIIF last year and was the Warriors one two punch with team mate Kolten Wong (UH, CF).
Royce Ebesu (Hilo High 07) is also on the HPU roster and will add pitching depth to the Sea Warriors. Other former BIIF players on the Vulcan roster in this weeks six game marathon are Mathew Hassenritter (Hilo 05), John Holley Jr (Pahoa 07), Casey Koizumi (Hilo 07), Sheldon Otsuka (Waiakea 06), and Cade Uyetake (Hilo 07). Hassenritter is enjoying a fast start and is hitting .417, with 10 hits in 24 at bats. Otsuka a Waiakea standout, also took the JUCO route similar to Hirota and also performed successfully at Hartnell College in California before transferring back to UH-Hilo. Otsuka will be counted on to provide depth to the Vulcan pitching staff along with Koizumi and Holley whom seen action last season as freshmen. For BIIF fans it will be an interesting homecoming for former BIIF baseball players and supporters. Let’s enjoy it!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
State Run University System Needs To Look At Local Applicants Intently
If our own Universities here in Hawaii don’t hire the top executive positions with local people, what chance do local people have. Local people here have struggled to attain a higher education since plantation days. There has been a huge growth in every culture to break away and create opportunities to get an education and move ahead economically. Like every culture here in Hawaii, there are those that wish to live a simpler life, yet there are those that venture out to seek greener pastures or a greater calling. Local Hawaii talent from locals here struggle, to get their fair shot sometimes.
The odds decrease for opportunities as the locals move further from Hawaii. However, there are some great truly inspiring stories of local Hawaii people making a difference on the mainland and around the world. However, how can a state run institution of higher learning, paid by taxes of hard working Hawaii people be denied the top positions of our institutions? Look at the track record. These executives we hire to these top positions have not really impressed us with their experience.
We have qualified local individuals within our University system with the experience and education to do a bang up job. But the University system has built in protective ways to ensure we hire mainland executives. How and why this is? If no one gives opportunities, how is one going to get the required experience? The University of Hawaii system is not a private institution. It could and should change this process. There were 80 applicants to the UHH Athletic Directors Position, many of which were from our community. Now they want to extend the deadline to look for that magic income magnet of a person. Now the income of the UHH position is not on par with most major universities AD positions. There is a red flag that needs to go up, if someone with vast experience is attracted to such a salary. You are not going to get a top notch AD who is happy and content to take over a stumbling economic athletic program.
Why the delay? Perhaps they have already stereotyped who they want? Someone who has connections with the Chancellor, or delaying this will be economically advantageous to the interim AD? Bottom line the applications are in, the deadline is past, now time to choose the best applicant. Hopefully they will see the best suited person should be someone of local origin, someone who knows the community of Hawaii.
The new AD should have a grasp of sports in Hawaii, the local economy, someone who is going to stay here and makes a life here. Not someone who is going to try to see if they like it here.
Hawaii has made great strides since the plantation oppression days. However, our University system still and will not hire a local for their top positions, this discrimination must be overcome. If Barack Obama can make it to the presidency, surely there are more qualified local applicants abound.
The odds decrease for opportunities as the locals move further from Hawaii. However, there are some great truly inspiring stories of local Hawaii people making a difference on the mainland and around the world. However, how can a state run institution of higher learning, paid by taxes of hard working Hawaii people be denied the top positions of our institutions? Look at the track record. These executives we hire to these top positions have not really impressed us with their experience.
We have qualified local individuals within our University system with the experience and education to do a bang up job. But the University system has built in protective ways to ensure we hire mainland executives. How and why this is? If no one gives opportunities, how is one going to get the required experience? The University of Hawaii system is not a private institution. It could and should change this process. There were 80 applicants to the UHH Athletic Directors Position, many of which were from our community. Now they want to extend the deadline to look for that magic income magnet of a person. Now the income of the UHH position is not on par with most major universities AD positions. There is a red flag that needs to go up, if someone with vast experience is attracted to such a salary. You are not going to get a top notch AD who is happy and content to take over a stumbling economic athletic program.
Why the delay? Perhaps they have already stereotyped who they want? Someone who has connections with the Chancellor, or delaying this will be economically advantageous to the interim AD? Bottom line the applications are in, the deadline is past, now time to choose the best applicant. Hopefully they will see the best suited person should be someone of local origin, someone who knows the community of Hawaii.
The new AD should have a grasp of sports in Hawaii, the local economy, someone who is going to stay here and makes a life here. Not someone who is going to try to see if they like it here.
Hawaii has made great strides since the plantation oppression days. However, our University system still and will not hire a local for their top positions, this discrimination must be overcome. If Barack Obama can make it to the presidency, surely there are more qualified local applicants abound.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Did BJ Penn Lose, Fair and Square, to GSP?
"Fair and square," is an idiom that means when someone wins something they follow the rules and win conclusively. GSP did not win his match with BJ Penn in a "fair and square" fashion. It doesn't matter whose fault it was, something very unfair happened. A fighter had someone in his corner apply lubricant to his body, in a fight where wrestling is a factor, in a match for the championship of the world. BJ Penn, in all likelihood, took a number shots to the head that he might otherwise have avoided, if GSP had not been oiled up –making him harder to hold onto.
Will a number of headshots turn a fight in a different direction? They certainly can. For the Championship of the World, for the coveted title, for the pinnacle of all achievements in the fight game, a match must be as "fair and square" as possible. Not to mention that BJ Penn's camp warned the officials BEFORE than match that GSP might be oiled up –and sure enough, look what they were caught doing DURING the match. This is not OK. This is, in my opinion conditions for the harshest of sanctions. Not just on behalf BJ Penn, but for the sport and the fans. GSP might have won under any circumstances, but we'll never know (until the rematch), as in this particular case, someone in GSP's camp did something that is absolutely and undeniably illegal.
Mr. White, you cannot tolerate ANY kind of cheating in your Octagon. No drugs, no sharp instruments, nothing to obstruct vision, no weighted gloves, and no oil. Please, for the sport, vacate the welterweight title, ban GSP's corner-man from the sport, call the fight a "no contest," and implement a strict testing policy, before and during fights, to keep competitors from cheating with oil.
Tom Callos
Will a number of headshots turn a fight in a different direction? They certainly can. For the Championship of the World, for the coveted title, for the pinnacle of all achievements in the fight game, a match must be as "fair and square" as possible. Not to mention that BJ Penn's camp warned the officials BEFORE than match that GSP might be oiled up –and sure enough, look what they were caught doing DURING the match. This is not OK. This is, in my opinion conditions for the harshest of sanctions. Not just on behalf BJ Penn, but for the sport and the fans. GSP might have won under any circumstances, but we'll never know (until the rematch), as in this particular case, someone in GSP's camp did something that is absolutely and undeniably illegal.
Mr. White, you cannot tolerate ANY kind of cheating in your Octagon. No drugs, no sharp instruments, nothing to obstruct vision, no weighted gloves, and no oil. Please, for the sport, vacate the welterweight title, ban GSP's corner-man from the sport, call the fight a "no contest," and implement a strict testing policy, before and during fights, to keep competitors from cheating with oil.
Tom Callos
Interesting High School Basketball Poll Issued on 2/10/09
The Honolulu Advertiser announced their latest State Girls and Boys Basketball polls and it is seems a little peculiar. Farrington sits atop the Girls Poll with a 12-0 record ahead of Punahou. Farrington got 6 first place votes compared to 5 for Punahou. Interestingly, Konawaena with a 10-0 record and defending state champion is harboring a number four position. Lahainaluna, the MIL undefeated is ahead of Kona at number three. Waiakea girls made the top ten coming in sitting at nine. In the boys poll, Kahuku another OIA undefeated (10-0) sits in the top position with 7 first place votes. Kamehameha with an 8-1 record had four first place votes. Iolani is in third followed by Kaimuki (4). Waiakea the BIIF boys leader comes in at number eight. MIL undefeated Baldwin boys makes it a number 10. We all know that the last poll of the season is what really counts, but this is the first time in many moons that the two OIA teams sits atop the polls late in the season for both the girls and boys. Unseating the ILH in both divisions in the HHSAA will be a task, but the HHSAA tournament looks to have a different look this year.
Link to Honolulu Advertiser Poll
Link to Honolulu Advertiser Poll
Friday, January 23, 2009
New DI & DII Schedule Making It Exciting In BIIF BB
Here we are in the midst of the BIIF Boys Basketball season and both races in DI & DII are heating up. Kealakehe defeated Waiakea last night and there is a logjam of teams with two losses. In the DII division, Kohala has gone through round one undefeated, beating Ka’u and St Joseph. With St Joseph having two losses, it almost forces the Cardinals to win against Ka’u and Pahoa in round two. Although Kohala is definitely in the driver’s seat, strange things can and usually happens in the wacky BIIF.
Ka’u is still in the race with one loss, and Pahoa has a very long outside shot, but could prove to be a spoiler. As we head into the second half of the season, the Boys DI Basketball title will be decided with the team that has three losses or less. In the Girls division, Konawaena seems to be running away (Literally) with the title. However, Keaau, Hilo and Waiakea still have an outside shot of catching Kona. To do that they will have to hope, someone figures out how to slow down the transition game and tenacious defense of the Wildcats.
If the second half goes the way of the first, then the rest of the girls BIIF DI teams have to hope they do not face Konawaena in the BIIF Tournament, or it could be a quick exit.
In BIIF DII Girls division, HPA upset Kamehameha and are in the driver’s seat in round one and will meet the Warriors again. If this were 2008, HPA would be definitely looking at a solid regular season title. But with this new exciting DI and DII schedule, Kamehameha has another shot at redemption. The next two weeks should be very exciting in BIIF basketball, hang on to your hats.
Ka’u is still in the race with one loss, and Pahoa has a very long outside shot, but could prove to be a spoiler. As we head into the second half of the season, the Boys DI Basketball title will be decided with the team that has three losses or less. In the Girls division, Konawaena seems to be running away (Literally) with the title. However, Keaau, Hilo and Waiakea still have an outside shot of catching Kona. To do that they will have to hope, someone figures out how to slow down the transition game and tenacious defense of the Wildcats.
If the second half goes the way of the first, then the rest of the girls BIIF DI teams have to hope they do not face Konawaena in the BIIF Tournament, or it could be a quick exit.
In BIIF DII Girls division, HPA upset Kamehameha and are in the driver’s seat in round one and will meet the Warriors again. If this were 2008, HPA would be definitely looking at a solid regular season title. But with this new exciting DI and DII schedule, Kamehameha has another shot at redemption. The next two weeks should be very exciting in BIIF basketball, hang on to your hats.
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