Humility and dominance. A pair of words not often used in the same sentence nor about one entity. But such was the case last month in Williamsport, PA., as Honolulu’s Little League team tore through its competition to win a world title. Outscoring opponents 60-5 over six games, crushing home runs with great regularity, the statistical analyses point out the simple fact that while teams knew what was coming- game after game- Honolulu dominated like perhaps no other team in LL history.
We’re thrilled that these boys of summer won, the fourth team from Hawai`i to win baseball’s 11/12 year-old division on the heels of titles in 2018 (Honolulu), 2008 (Waipi`o) and in 2005 (`Ewa). But the real joys watching day in and day out, in games and interviews, were the repeated themes of team first, trust, family, love, humility, fun, and respect- virtues prized highly here in the islands.
Tipping their hats to the acknowledge foe’s fans, high-fiving opponents after they got hits, sharing local-style grinds throughout the month-long stay in the West regionals and then in Pennsylvania, this team was so good, it would have been easy for some to paint them as bad guys, as we often do when one team is so thoroughly superior in a quest. But from opposing players, managers and fans, all we heard was kudos for the Honolulu players, coaches, and parents.
Often playing in games truncated by the “mercy rule” after four (of six scheduled) innings as they led by 10+ runs, Honolulu’s Little League kings were routinely dominant. In a state which often sees itself as the underdog in so many areas, having a team like this showcased internationally as gallant Goliaths of the game was heart-warming and pride-inducing.
Invariably, the wins almost seemed like cherries on an ice cream sundae. The real soul and merits of this team shined through on the always-smiling faces of our slugging pre-teens, the genuine excitement of yet another home run, incredible pitching performance, or when simply meeting kids from other states and countries.
Over 2.2-million kids play Little League, and last month, Honolulu ruled the junior baseball world with a dazzling display of grace, power, stamina, love, respect, and humility… an awesome combination. Oh yeh, O`ahu’s Kado Hawai`i team won the Babe Ruth World Series in mid-August for 13-year-olds… while also winning the sportsmanship award. Yet another youthful class act. Geev’um, kids!
Think about it…