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A Touchdown For UhaUHumu Pōhaku Sports Day!
THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAIʻI AT MĀNOA - Liliʻuokalani Trust (LT) held their second annual UhaUHumu Pōhaku Sports Day, partnering with the University of Hawaiʻi Athletics Department.  LT scored major points with motivational speeches from UH football team mentors and a day’s worth of hands-on activities led by professional coaches and athletes for the kamaliʻi.

A total of 73 kamaliʻi attended from across the state of Hawaiʻi, with approximately half of them traveling from the neighbor islands. They received a welcome from Chair Asam and an inspiring speech by Coach Rolovich who challenged our kamaliʻi to not “fear greatness.” Josh Elms, UH Football strength coach, ended the morning session with a lesson on competent exercise philosophy and nutrition.

This year, kamaliʻi learned the many different positions in football, the multitude of skills it takes to be on a team, and the opportunity to put these newly acquired skills to work. A total of 10 athlete mentors and UH football offensive and defensive coaching staff provided their expertise on proper form and philosophy behind the different positions. 

Kamaliʻi had the opportunity to participate in an obstacle course and actual two-hand touch football games. The competition was fun, fierce and fair and all the kamaliʻi had moments to shine. As players walked off the field, their smiles were ear to ear.   

Research continues to show that positive youth development, and sports specifically, increases the physical health, self-esteem, and self-efficacy of youth. Programs that cultivate wellbeing create a buffer against stress and build youth resilience as they face life challenges. LT sports projects intend to develop kamaliʻi’s resilience and resistance to stressors, empowering them to break the cycle of poverty. Chris Molina and Leialoha Benson, LT staff, focused on teaching the kamaliʻi about each of our Hōʻāmana values and providing an accompanying engaging activity. Kamaliʻi heard from current UH football players about their path to the UH team and the Hōʻāmana values they embodied to reach their goals.

Kūpono - I will do what is right

Haʻaheo - I am proud and teachable

Kuleana - I recognize my responsibility

ʻEleu - I am observant and stand ready

Poʻokela - I strive for excellence

ʻOnipaʻa - I am determined

After four fun-filled activity blocks, the day ended with a cool down in the Stan Sherrif Lecture Hall for kamaliʻi to complete their evaluations, hang out, talk story, and get autographs from the athletes. UhaUHumu Pōhaku Sports Day was an incredible success because of the engagement from the athletes, the commitment of the staff and, most of all, the joy displayed by the kamaliʻi.  

A big mahalo to the University of Hawaiʻi for partnering with the Trust by helping us instill hope and faith in our young kamaliʻi and to all who gave of their time to kōkua. We will continue to strive to create days for our kamaliʻi that focus on values and inclusiveness while providing a network of caring staff and mentors that challenge our kamaliʻi to grow in a safe, encouraging and supportive environment.