KAILUA-KONA – Kealakehe couldn’t have asked for a much tougher BIIF opener.
The Waveriders welcomed the defending BIIF Division I champion Kamehameha to their home court Tuesday night, ultimately falling to the Warriors in straight sets: 25-19. 25-19, 25-9. Though they failed to take a set, the Waveriders did stick around with Kamehameha for the first two sets with a consistent defense, earning praise from Kamehameha head coach Guy Enriques in the process.
“That’s the best I’ve seen them – as a team – perform,” said Enriques. “They were very competitive. They battled all the way. I’m impressed with what they did against us tonight.”
In the end, a Kamehameha squad with an abundance of experience proved too much for the Waveriders. Seniors Kaleaokapuamakani Kuamoo and Kilinoelehua Helm recorded a match-high eight and seven kills, respectively, while Leisey Kelii led Kamehameha with 11 digs. Reigning BIIF Division I player of the year Maela Honma – a junior – paced Kamehameha with four aces.
“It’s huge,” responded Enriques when asked how valuable it is having such an experienced team; Kamehameha has 11 seniors on their roster. “I think the kids were a little bit excited, a little bit nervous tonight. First game. It was a good start.”
In the match-clinching third set, however, it was freshman Shay Beals that stole the show. Beals served as Kamehameha rolled to a 10-point streak – their longest of the contest – to effectively put the match on ice.
“She’s very steady, and she’s just a freshman,” said Enriques. “I’m more excited about her future, filling in a lot of spots that we’re going to lose with an 11-senior roster…. What’s nice is she’s so steady. No fancy stuff, just ball up, hit in.”
Kamehameha (1-0) has a quick turnaround; they’ll return to square off against Hilo on Wednesday. Kealakehe (0-1) will hit the court next on Friday, when they travel to Kau to take on the Trojans.
