Kahuku’s Lady Wrestlers Headed For State Meet, Again
By Jack Danilewicz
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Del.icio.usAs Reggie Torres prepares the girls wrestling team for this weekend’s State Wrestling Championships at Blaisdell Arena, the workouts are less physical, but just as exhausting.
Indeed, the veteran Kahuku coach can be counted among those who believe that peak performance begins in the head.
“We have a different type of practice now,” said Torres, whose team won the 2008 state title.“We’ve minimized our live wrestling, and we’re basically reviewing scenarios and specific situations. Up by four, what do you do? We’re also working hard on our transition from one move to the next.
“Every kid is different. They have to find what works for them.”
The team hopes to qualify as many as eight for the state meet after another solid season. Kahuku captured the OIA East crown recently and was to compete for the OIA’s overall title over the weekend. The top five finishers in each respective weight class were to secure berths at the state meet. The good news is the Red Raiders can’t help but feel right at home at states, having been one of the OIA’s most consistent programs over the past decade.
“They’re experienced, and they know what’s expected and how to act when they get there,” said Torres.“They won’t be in awe. They know they just have to wrestle the way they have all year - one match at a time - and prepare to win.”
Although they are the defending state champs, Torres calls Punahou of the ILH and OIA-West member Campbell the favorites. “We have a tough road to climb (to win the state), but that’s what makes it interesting. You set your goals and try to overcome the obstacles.”
Among those hoping to close out their career in style is senior Kalae Johnson, who took first in the East in the 108-pound class recently. A four-year letter winner and team captain, Johnson already has placed in three state tournaments, including a runner-up finish last year.
“She’s the hardest worker we have of the girls,” said Torres, who also coaches boys wrestling at Kahuku. “She’s very coachable and a joy to work with.”
Torres also credited her workout partner,Ammon Pollister,a top-level boys’ wrestler at Kahuku, with furthering her development.
“He’s strong and tough. They battle in practice, and it’s awesome. He helps her to get better every day.”
The lineup also has seniors Andrina Ramos and Ione Kamakaala in the 103- and 125-pound weight classes, respectively. Ramos took first in the East, while Kamakaala placed second to Moanalua’s Rachael Ostovich.
“Andrina is a good girl, a team captain and leader. She’s well-liked, and she cares about her team-mates. Ione has been injured much of the season, and she’s just getting back. She’s going to be someone to watch if she can recover.” Ione Kamakaala’s younger sister Kehau also enters the weekend with high hopes in the 114-pound class.
“She has natural athletic ability,” Torres said of Kehau, who took first in the East.“She’s feisty, and she has tools you can’t teach.”
Darian Auna, (98), Kristy Rabaino (120),Amber Ah Sue (155) and Libby Petrie (220) also figure to be in the mix for Kahuku.
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