Kaua‘i High School girls basketball players Kristle Henry and Casey Anacleto were joined by Kapa‘a High School girls basketball players Ariel Cummings and Shai-anne Abigania in being recognized for their abilities and attitudes by Coach Dennis Agena and Kalakaua Basketball.
The recognition came following the three-day Agena basketball clinic which wrapped up Sunday at the Kilauea Neighborhood Center.
More than 70 of Kaua‘i’s basketball players turned out for the three-day clinic where Agena was joined by Big Island coach Kalani Silva, a community basketball coach as well as coach for the Kamehameha Schools-Big Island.
Steven Matsumoto of the Kaua‘i Youth Basketball Association who coordinated the Agena visit as well as assists the county during the youth basketball league which is currently being played, said the objective of the clinic was basically to improve the players’ fundamental skills, more notably, the jump stop and – which results in traveling calls during the game.
Silva was most impressed with how well behaved and receptive the students were during the clinic, adding he will bring his own son and perhaps some players from the Big Island when Agena returns to Kaua‘i for another clinic.
During the three days, Agena got help from a number of volunteers, mainly coaches from the community league as well as some players from the adult league.
One exception was Brandon Palacio, a Waimea High School player, who was asked by Agena to be a “volunteer” after being invited by Agena to help with a clinic on O‘ahu earlier this year.
Karen Matsumoto of KYBA said it was interesting to watch the players return to the court following the clinic, Tuesday when the county resumed play in the Division II boys youth league.
“I’m sure many of the players (and coaches) were still tired from the strenuous workout, but were still able to enjoy their games, Tuesday,” Matsumoto said. “The relationships built during the clinic seems to have carried over to the games as participants had positive exchanges and words of encouragement for each other. We had a great group of students and we’re proud of how hard they all worked.”
Joining the high school players, Agena made note of players Jaliyah Casem, Angelica Cudiamat, Lexton Camat, Noah Rall, Jamin Fernandez, Koa Lagapa, Monique Lorenzo, James Paik, Levi Sagucio, Marissa Layosa and Leona Sime.
Steven Matsumoto said Agena plans to return in October for another basketball clinic.
