WAIMEA – After a dominant performance over the visiting Wildcats of Konawaena Monday, the Hawaii Prep softball team is making sure to keep their focus on the big picture.
“I can tell these girls are motivated this year,” said Hawaii Prep head coach Travis Bondallian. “Last year, it felt like it was a wasted year, so they never played to their potential. This year, I see they’ve got their eyes on the prize.”
Ka Makani were locked in on Monday, taking down Konawaena 25-0 on their senior day. The game lasted just two and a half innings, with HPA doing all of their damage on the offensive end in just two innings. Home runs by Kaila Kaahu and Elliana DeRego highlighted a 13-run first inning, leaving no doubt Ka Makani would emerge victorious on senior day. HPA recorded a total of 20 hits in the game.
“It’s even bigger,” said Bondallian of being able to win on senior day. “But I tell them we need three more wins. This is a group that can get it done; we’ve just got to keep the ball rolling. They’re staying focused.”
April Grace got the start in the circle and earned the win for HPA, notching eight strikeouts in a three-inning no-hitter.
HPA (5-0) will put their undefeated record on the line again on Friday, when they’ll travel to Kohala before the start of BIIF postseason play, where Ka Makani have their sights firmly set on a BIIF championship.
“They’ve got their eyes on the prize,” repeated Bondallian. “I hope they keep it rolling; I want it as much as them.”
Honokaa 17, Kohala 2
Krysta-Lyn Lewis finished a single short of the cycle Friday and hit a three-run inside-the-park home run, and Mahine Young went 4 for 4 as the Dragons (2-2) won at home.
Anela Cazimero hit a two-run inside-the-park homer and tripled for the Cowgirls (1-3).
Maile Espejo struck out seven in four innings for Honokaa.