05/31/2026
A fine season has come to an end. These young men did everything that was asked of them, and there is not a bad kid on this roster. Baseball teaches many tough lessons, and anyone who has the perseverance to make it through a senior season can handle most of the challenges life will present.
Not every player gets the role, playing time, or opportunities they hope for. However, every player has value and plays an important part in the success of our program. As coaches, we wish every kid could play every inning of every game, but our responsibility is to put the team in the best position to succeed. That is where many of life's lessons are learned.
I tell our players repeatedly that the effort, discipline, and attention to detail they invest in themselves and their team will matter far more in the future than wins, losses, or playing time. We are teaching the long game. High school baseball is different from summer baseball. Both have their place, but high school athletics are truly extracurricular—an extension of learning beyond the classroom. Players learn just as much about themselves, their character, and how they respond to adversity as they do about the game itself. They learn what it means to be part of something bigger than themselves.
Baseball is unique because it combines individual performance within a team environment. Successful teams are built when young men learn to balance personal goals with team success. Every day, we are striving to help develop future leaders, fathers, husbands, and productive members of society.
We do not get overly focused on records, but a 19-7 season is certainly something to be proud of. Considering the pitching injuries we faced and the challenge of replacing a large senior class from last year, this level of success was FAR from guaranteed. These young men earned every bit of it through their hard work, determination, and commitment to one another.
Through all the highs and lows, the greatest reward is becoming a Wapahani Raider Baseball player for life. I am proud of all 24 players—from the athlete who hits .500 and earns attention and awards to the player who spends most of the season supporting his teammates from the dugout. They are all our guys, and they always will be.
We were blessed with another outstanding coaching staff this season. Their genuine love for our players and for Wapahani is evident every day. We are also fortunate to have many former players who continue to give back by helping with our program and our middle school teams. I cannot thank them enough for the time, energy, and commitment they invest in helping develop the next generation of young men.
To our seniors, thank you and good luck. Some will continue their baseball careers, while others are pursuing opportunities in the electrical trades and other professions. No matter the path they choose, we are confident they will achieve great things. Their work ethic, character, and experiences will serve them well.
Raider Pride!
