LIHUE — Leiko Yamauchi, graduating from Waimea High School, was the only non-Kapaa player filling in the Kauai Interscholastic Federation softball all stars announced Friday.
Yamauchi, a senior, filled in one of three outfield positions, the remainder of the 12 available spots voted on by KIF coaches and officials going to the KIF champions Kapaa High School.
Freshman Savannah Simons captured two spots — Player of the Year, and Catcher — and is one of three freshmen named all stars. Pitcher Seijia Makanani and First Base Kaia Davis-Caberto, the lead-off batter on the Warriors’ roster, are the other two freshmen.
Francis Takasaki, leading the Warriors to its third straight season win, was named Coach of the Year after holding off a strong Menehune comeback in the second round.
Other Warriors getting the all star nod include, Kaylana Maganoy at second base, Kendra Kupihea getting third base, and Shailee Telles-Kelekoma anchoring shortstop to round out the infield.
Outfield positions belonging to Kapaa include Taelyn Dakamas and Shannayah Marshall who did occasional pitching duty through the season.
Shaylin Rivera, a sophomore, rounded out the all star team after being named Utility.
Kauai High School, under the leadership of first-year coach Shanna Tafiti, did not field any players on the all star roster.
KIF Softball All Stars
Coach of the Year: Francis Takasaki (Kapaa)
Player of the Year: Savannah Simons (Kapaa)
Pitcher: Seijia Makanani (Kapaa)
Catcher: Savannah Simons (Kapaa)
First Base: Kaia Davis-Caberto (Kapaa)
Second Base: Kaylana Maganoy (Kapaa)
Third Base: Kendra Kupihea (Kapaa)
Shortstop: Shailee Telles-Kelekoma (Kapaa)
Outfield: Leiko Yamauchi (Waimea)
Outfield: Taelyn Dakamas (Kapaa)
Outfield: Shanayah Marshall (Kapaa)
Utility: Shaylin Rivera (Kapaa)
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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
