LIHUE — The Kawaihau senior softball team was presented a Certificate of Commendation during the Kauai County Council Committee meeting at the historic County Building on Wednesday.
Authored by Councilman Ross Kagawa, the certificate recognized and acknowledged the achievement of earning second place honors in the C Division during the 48th annual Hawaii State Senior Softball Tournament that wrapped up on Aug. 6 in Kona on the Big Island.
“The tournament was a test of team cohesion and endurance with the Kawaihau Senior Softball Team continuously excelling, particularly on the final single elimination day where the team played three games in a single day,” the certificate states.
“The Kawaihau team proved their strength at the conclusion of the heated tournament when they took home the Second Place spot in the C Division, bringing pride and honor to the island of Kauai.”
The tournament that featured 62 teams from Hawaii Island, Maui, Oahu and Kauai competed over three days starting on Aug. 3. The island of Kauai was represented by 13 teams.
Each of the participating teams was seeded by their respective standings in each island’s results leading to the tournament fielding eight divisions consisting of eight teams in each division. Kawaihau ended in the competitive C Division, an upgrade from last year’s placement in the E Division.
“The Kauai County Council extends an enthusiastic congratulations to the Kawaihau Senior Softball Team for their hard-earned accomplishments that not only represents excellence in sportsmanship, but also support engagement and a healthy lifestyle for the island’s kupuna,” the certificate said.
“The Council commends the team members, coach, and supporters for their success and eagerly anticipates next year’s Hawaii State Senior Softball Tournament, which will be hosted by Kauai.”
Coached by Derek Tamashiro, the Kawaihau team includes Michael Alonzo, Jaime Arreola, Kari Forer, Jack Gerettie, Guy Higa, Ron “Chip” Jones, Scott Kouchi, Darryl Labuguen, Robert Labuguen, Richard Osakoda, Glen Rodero, Michael Soong and Craig Wagner.
