High School Beat
Star-Bulletin staff
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Switch in softball seasons hurt Nanakuli baseball team
If Joshua DeFreitas had his way, the softball season would not conflict with baseball. That way, he could have his anchors back.
Softball players, the Nanakuli baseball coach said, were the foundation of his team.
"A lot of years, we were held up by our girls. If they hadn't moved softball to spring, I think some of the girls would've held up our team," said DeFreitas, who saw his program end the season prematurely due to poor turnouts for practice.
That situation was exacerbated by ineligible players and inexperience -- something the softball athletes have an edge on.
"The girls are tough. They're committed to their program. The boys, they know what it takes to win, but they don't want to show up to practice to do what you gotta do," he said.
After an 0-2 start, the Golden Hawks forfeited the remainder of the season. DeFreitas felt especially bad for consistent players like senior Isaiah Tanaka.
"He was with us for four years, so he was really disappointed," DeFreitas said.
The community has age-group baseball for 13- and 14-year-olds for the first time in recent history, DeFreitas added.
"Those coaches do a great job. We just gotta be patient while they build that," he said.
Campaign choices
Guy Enriques remains a part of the Kamehameha-Hawaii boys volleyball program, though he's been in a volunteer capacity since February.
That's because the former Ka'u, Konawaena and Hawaii-Hilo assistant coach decided to run for a seat on the county council. School policy prohibits politicians, or someone running for office, from holding a paid position on campus.
Tom Poy, a veteran assistant coach, is the head coach. Enriques is allowed to serve in a volunteer capacity and was on the bench when the Warriors placed second at the Hawaii Invitational tournament 10 days ago.
"We wish him well," athletic director Bob Wagner said.
If he wins his race, Enriques would not be the first elected official to be a volunteer coach. For years, Lt. Gov. Duke Aiona assisted Delbert Tengan in the Saint Louis basketball program. Aiona stepped away after the 2006-07 season.
Two in, one out
Christian Liberty and Parker dropped out of BIIF volleyball this season, but charter school Ke Ana Laahana has joined.
Kea Ana Laahana, located in Keaukaha, is coached by Cathy Kaide. Enrollment is roughly 70.
To nominate ...
To nominate an athlete of the week, contact the Star-Bulletin Sports Department by 11 p.m. Sunday:
Phone: 529-4782
Fax: 529-4787
E-mail: sports@starbulletin.com
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