With another KIF season on the horizon, teams and individuals are preparing to take to the field, court, gym or arena of play, but little thought goes into what the athletes wear throughout the season, and what they practice with.
With another KIF season on the horizon, teams and individuals are preparing to take to the field, court, gym or arena of play, but little thought goes into what the athletes wear throughout the season, and what they practice with.
However, behind the scenes, athletic directors and programs work diligently to ensure that the athletes and teams are equipped with the best possible uniforms, equipment and supplies that they can afford.
This is where the Shop and Score program comes into play.
The program — in partnership with Times Supermarkets, Big Save and Kraft Foods — offer high schools on O‘ahu, Maui and Kaua‘i the chance to earn $250,000 in free Adidas athletic uniforms and equipment, according to a news release.
“We are excited to continue this partnership with Times Supermarkets and Big Save in support of Hawai‘i high school athletics,” says Gerald Shintaku, customer business manager for Kraft Foods in Hawai‘i. “We recognize the role that sports play in helping kids attain future success, both on and off the field, and we couldn’t be more pleased about how our program helps to offset shrinking and tight athletics budgets in our schools.”
The program has made a difference on Kaua‘i, providing the opportunity for the community to shop and earn points that can be applied to their school of choice.
“We have participated in the program for the last two years,” said Greg Gonsalves, athletic director at Kapa’a High School. “We were able to purchase jerseys for two teams. It was significant and we can use it how we want.”
With budget cuts proving to be an issue for many athletic programs many athletic directors see the value in programs like Shop and Score.
“This is our fourth year with significant budget cuts,” Gonsalves said. “Every little bit helps, without it we would have to wear jerseys longer and equipment would be older, and we are always in need of equipment.”
“Any help that benefits the student athletes make my job easier,” said Waimea Athletic Director Jon Kobayashi. “State budget cuts have had a toll on all three high schools and their athletic teams. Programs like Shop and Score help to make athletics possible during hard times.”
Shoppers of Times Supermarkets and Big Save stores on O‘ahu, Kaua‘i and Maui can earn points for the participating high school of their choice by purchasing Kraft Foods and other participating products as labeled by the store. Schools will earn its share of $250,000 in Adidas Mi-team uniforms based on the amount of participating products purchased and designated in points to the schools.
The Shop and Score program will run from Aug. 29 to Oct. 9. For more information visit Times Supermarkets and Big Save stores.
• Rick Killeen, sports writer, can be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 237) or sports@thegardenisland.com. Follow Rick on Twitter @RickKilleen.
