A freshman as a KIF Player of the Year is not something you’ll see often. And that’s why Kaua‘i’s Wailana Borrero is now in the company of a few players in any sport to have taken top honors in the
A freshman as a KIF Player of the Year is not something you’ll see often.
And that’s why Kaua‘i’s Wailana Borrero is now in the company of a few players in any sport to have taken top honors in the KIF.
The Red Raider ace earned the accolade because of her dominance on the mound throughout the season, including the state tournament, where she led her squad to a fifth-place finish, after wins over Kalaheo and Waipahu.
This was also an extra special season for Borrero, who’s grandfather, John Bandmann Sr., passed away late last year.
After clinching the KIF title, Borrero, a silent leader, couldn’t help but let her emotions out during a postgame interview.
The Red Raiders captured their second straight KIF title under Jacque Inouye, who earned Coach of the Year honors once again.
The 2005-06 KIF Softball All-Star team is made up of a good mix of seniors and underclassmen.
Besides Borrero as the obvious choice as the top pitcher, teammate Sam Koga picked up honors at the catcher’s spot.
The junior did a swell job, taking over for Ulu Kelekoma, who led the Red Raiders last season.
Waimea sophomore Kelsie Igne proved to be a tough customer both in the field and in the batter’s box, earning her accolades at first base.
Randi Oketani, a Kaua‘i junior, made the squad at second base, thanks to her cat-like abilities on defense.
Waimea junior Moani Durant added pop to her bat and played outstanding defense at the hot corner, giving her the third base all-star honors.
Another Kaua‘i freshman made the squad, but this time at shortstop, with Jessica Iwata walking away with the award. Iwata, who carries a swift bat and a knack for the game, should be a candidate for player of the year next season.
The all-star outfielders are Waimea junior Kanoe Carveiro, and Kaua‘i seniors Robin Jose and Ku‘ulei Manintin.
Carveiro played near-perfect ball at leftfield, to go with her solid bat.
Steady Jose and the electrified Manintin, played huge roles for the Red Raiders, who finished up with just one loss this season.
Waimea junior Cassie Koerte was the ace on the Menehune pitching staff and she also contributed at the plate with solid smacks. She earned the utility spot. The 2005-06 KIF Softball All-Stars were chosen by the coaches.
2006 KIF Softball All-Stars
Player of the Year: Wailana Borrero, Kaua‘i (Fr.)
Coach of the Year: Jacque Inouye, Kaua‘i
All-Star Team
Pitcher: Wailana Borrero, Kaua‘i (Fr.)
Catcher: Sam Koga, Kaua‘i, (Jr.)
First Base: Kelsie Igne, Waimea (So.)
Second Base: Randi Oketani, Kaua‘i (Jr.)
Third Base: Moani Durant, Waimea (Jr.)
Shortstop: Jessica Iwata, Kaua‘i (Fr.)
Outfield: Kanoe Carveiro, Waimea (Jr.)
Outfield: Robin Jose, Kaua‘i (Sr.)
Outfield: Ku‘ulei Manintin, Kaua‘i (Sr.)
Utility: Cassie Koerte, Waimea (Jr.)
*Selected by coaches
