KAPAA — The Kawaihau Community Little League Majors all-stars had to share a practice field Tuesday at New Kapaa Town Park. “They’ve got the championship game for the Hawaii Little League District 7 Minors state tournament,” said one of the
KAPAA — The Kawaihau Community Little League Majors all-stars had to share a practice field Tuesday at New Kapaa Town Park.
“They’ve got the championship game for the Hawaii Little League District 7 Minors state tournament,” said one of the coaches. “We’re sharing the field with the Kawaihau Community Little League 10-11 all-stars.”
Normally practicing on the Main Diamond, the Kawaihau Majors were at practice early because its head coach Abe Kuhaulua was scheduled to officiate the title game.
“They’re supposed to come and do the hit-a-thon as a fundraiser,” said coach Mike Cardinez, following the Minors division title game. “But they’re still practicing, so I don’t know.”
The Kawaihau Majors all-stars leave Thursday for the District 1 playoffs on Oahu with their first game scheduled for Friday against Kaneohe.
“That’s the tough one,” a team parent offered. “If we can get past that game, it should be smooth from there.”
The winner of the District 1 playoffs will advance to the Hawaii Little League Majors state tournament, which is scheduled to start July 17 at the Kilauea Field, adjacent to the Kaimuki Middle School on Oahu.
The winner of the Majors state tournament will advance to the Little League Regional tournament in San Bernardino, Calif. The winner of that tournament advances to the Little League World Series.
Joining head coach Abe Kuhaulua are assistant coaches Ashkhon Kuhaulua, Dustin Alfiler and Mike Cardinez.
Players include Levi Cummings, Kanoa Nii, Kaimi Malina, Braden Watanabe, Nainoa Cardinez, Ricky Rego, Kystin Alfiler, Zachery Hee, Kaenen Lacaden, Raven Cummings, Elvis Park, Kaeon Orlando, Kalena Harder and Leo Swartman.
• Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
