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Good News Bears
Posted at 12:30 AM
They came on a mission. They return to Maui with good news. By Paul Honda One of the priceless treasures of my job is having access to places that a fan normally can't go. One of them, of course, was the dugout of Rainbow Wahine Softball Stadium last night after Baldwin stunned the world by capturing its first Division I state title since 2001. There's so much to say, so much praise I'd love to give these players and coaches. I literally got to see their work ethic in action a few years ago when I was on Maui for an assignment. In the same afternoon outside War Memorial Stadium, I saw future USC Trojan linebacker Kaluka Maiava running through the blazing afternoon sun. He did his miles around the stadium at a brisk pace, then back to the Baldwin campus. The guy never stopped training, whether it was cardio work or in the weight room. I also saw Baldwin's very young softball team on a nearby field, with only one coach in view. It was Ryan Souza, barking instructions and advice as he continued to slap grounders, line drives and fly balls to his crew. It was relentless work in unforgiving weather, the kind that doesn't pay off until Saturday, Feb. 3 with a state crown. That's why I wasn't shocked when Baldwin won the title this season. That's why, after the TV cameras and presentations were done, there was catcher Sanoe Kekaluna, embracing the championship trophy, gazing out over the field, tears streaming down both cheeks. That's why I wasn't surprised when I noticed pitcher Nicole Alconcel crying, too, as she smiled. What happens when your dreams come true? What comes next? They worked so hard, this team of nine seniors and some very fortunate underclassmen, to get here. There was no shock in their eyes after they shut out No. 2 seed St. Francis, and then No. 1 Mililani on consecutive nights. Work ethic means there are no surprises when the job is done right. And when it happens, then what? Sanoe is as strong and tough as they come, but her face was almost blank. The hunger that drove her for years was satisfied. It was a new feeling. Sedation. Contentment. All those trips to the mainland for club ball. Even a trip to Japan a couple of years ago. These two, the finest battery mates in the state, have etched their names into a place reserved only for the finest of softball players. They will continue on and find success at Cal, at UH-Hilo ... but they knew, this is it. There's only one chance to represent Baldwin High. They did it to the utmost, no regrets, and brought home that koa trophy today. It's almost sad, but there's more to it all. Much more. These Bears were loveable. They've brought joy to so many people within and outside the program. Time will show how much impact they've made through their passion and diligence. We'll see soon enough. Previous Article: Destiny for two © Copyright 2003 HondaReport.com/Leahi.Net
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