Sunday Funday

Super workout today for 13U. Micah Visoria, Ryan Higashionna,Kyle Moraga, Joshua de Jesus, Javan Montiho Julie Montiho), Felcris Jay Corpuz. A lot of defensive work/conditioning, ballhandling/ball control work. Job well done, Thunder! 

We got some shave ice later, then Kyle, Josh and Felcris headed to the swimming pool (McCully). A good, sunny, breezy summer day in Hawaii. Not bad. 

Video: 15U vs Marauders JV

H1 Thunder vs. Marauders (Waipahu), Pearl City Junior Varsity Summer League, Saturday, June 29, 2013, Pearl City High School gym.

Part 1


Part 2

Video: Thunder 17U vs Rough Riders

H1 Thunder vs. Rough Riders (Roosevelt), Kalani Varsity Summer League, Thursday, June 27, 2013, Earl C. Holmer Gymnasium. Back and forth game, Thunder took a 40-32 lead early in the second half, but the Rough Riders kept chipping away, crashing the offensive boards. We had the ball, down 52-51 in the final seconds, but Isaiah's drive ended with a miss at the bucket, and Roosevelt hit a foul shot with :00.8 left for the final point.

Part 1


Part 2

JV: Thunder 53, Marauders 23

Damien Monarchs didn't show up for our 2:00 pm game, so Waipahu filled in after completing their earlier game. They have 14 players, so it was a good opportunity for them.

We were 11 strong today and almost everybody played with great energy on defense. Overall, a good effort by our Thunder, including some smart, quick passing. Our starters played strong most of the time, especially on the fullcourt and halfcourt traps. Our reserves, mostly 13U players, were very effective on the fullcourt press. Our posts were solid working our '45' double-high post play in the final minutes. It's satisfying to see posts who love to pass as much as they love to score.

Next: Sunday, 11:00 am, McCully gym. Shooting practice, conditioning work. A lot of basics. A lot of reps. WE LUB THIS GAME!

Fundraiser Update

• Some of the guys have taken care of their state (photo) IDs. Some have not. I need to see everybody's state photo ID THIS WEEKEND.

You will not be able to board the plane without a state photo ID. School ID's do not count.

• CAR WASH. Another car wash is on for Sunday, July 7. I made the down payment yesterday. Auntie Char will print more tickets this weekend. Pre-sale tickets are crucial. If you don't sell the tickets you were allotted, you must return them. Tickets are money in this situation. All players, 17U, 15U, 13U, 12U are expected to pitch in. Each age division (except 12U) has league and tournament entry-fee costs of $2,000 or more for the 2013 year.

We netted a little more than $1,000 at last week's car wash. That's a good day's pay, but we've got many more car washes to do. It's all about teamwork, which leads to fun, which leads to more teamwork and more fun . . .

• NBA Summer League. I ordered tickets for our entire traveling party. It cost a pretty penny, but it's worth it. The games start at 1:00 pm and end around 10:00 pm. Here are more details.

The matchups on Mon July 15. Cox Pavilion is the smaller gym (4,000) with better seats (I think): 1 PM - New York vs. Charlotte (Game 20)
3 PM - Cleveland vs. New Orleans (Game 21)
5 PM - LA Clippers vs. LA Lakers (Game 23)
7 PM - San Antonio vs. Atlanta (Game 25)

Same day, Mon July 15, games at humongous Thomas & Mack Center (20,000):
3:30 PM - Minnesota vs. Phoenix (Game 22)
5:30 PM - Sacramento vs. Golden State (Game 24)
7:30 PM - Chicago vs. Denver (Game 26)

Video: Thunder 13U vs Makakilo

H1 Thunder vs. Makakilo Knights, Compete & Learn 13U League, Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Kilauea District Park Gym. Makakilo is one of our longtime (if you can call one year a long time) rivals and this was no different. They're tall, and even as they rebuild with new players, they were strong with the ball. They rallied late to catch us, and beat us in overtime 47-46 in the CAL League's free-throw shootout format. Great effort by both teams.

Part 1


Part 2


Part 3

Video: Thunder 17U vs Buffanblu

H1 Thunder vs. Buffanblu (Punahou), Kalani Varsity Summer League, Tuesday, June 25, 2013, Earl C. Holmer Gymnasium. Strong start, faded defensively for a stretch in the first half, rallied, took the lead ... a battle all the way to the end. Isaiah Visoria's runner in the lane with 3.6 seconds wins it for the Thunder 17U.

Part 1


Part 2

Friday practice

Practice for the 13U is on Friday (today), 5:00 pm, Makiki Park. The conditioning work will resume. More drills, more refining and, hopefully, some strong 5-on-5. That's something some of our younger guys could really benefit from.

13U doesn't play again until next week Friday (July 5), but they'll suit up and play when the Thunder 15U plays on Saturday against the Monarchs, 2:00 pm, Pearl City JV League.

Varsity: Rough Riders 53, Thunder 51

After a nice win over Punahou two nights earlier, this was a setback. It's been a very even season in the Kalani Varsity Summer League, a lot of parity. We're 3-3 now, but easily could be 6-0. Every team is beatable.

This one was close all the way. Roosevelt had just six guys and played a smart game. We faced two of our own guys, Brent and Mick. Brent hurt us with his mid-range baseline shots and drives to the basket. He happened to save his best game of the season for us!

We had the ball with 8 or so seconds left, down 52-51, when Isaiah beat his man off the dribble, took on a second defender and missed a layup from the left side. Rough Riders hit a foul shot with :00.8 left to close the scoring. Isaiah had the winning shot against Punahou, and such is the game of basketball. One night, it's a thrilling shot for the victory. Then it's a tough finish on a miss two nights later. But we trust Isaiah with the ball and the last shot without hesitation.

Haka had a solid game from the perimeter, penetrating to get contact and get to the foul line. Isaiah was hounded wherever he went by his old Roosevelt teammates. He didn't get a lot of breathing room, and they tipped and slapped the ball away on a few of his drives, knowing all his moves.

Kyle had a tough first half, but hit a clutch 3 from the corner to give us the lead late in the game. He and Tanielu have logged a lot of minutes in the past three days between varsity, JV and 13U games. Fatigue is a factor, but he and Tani did a solid job tonight. Tani was big in the second half with some breakaway layups.

On the whole, it was a solid game for us, just a teeny bit short on the scoreboard. I'll mention this one more time, and I wish we'd taken heed on this during the game. When you beat a smaller defender off the dribble, it's going to be an And-1 situation when you come to a stop at the basket and get your shot off using your body as a shield while he jumps into you. We had multiple opportunities to do this tonight, and we didn't take advantage quite enough. Instead, we had a lot of missed shots in traffic 5 to 10 feet out. A lot of makes, but a lot of missed opportunities.

It's a lesson worth learning. Hopefully, we all listen and execute next time, and the time after that and the time after that. Beyond pure competition, that's what this is about: gaining experience, learning from success and mistakes, and improving.

Next:
Friday, 5:00 pm, Practice, Makiki Park
Saturday, 2:00 pm, 15U vs. Monarchs JV, Pearl City High School gym (Pearl City JV League)
Sunday, 11:00 am, Practice, McCully gym
Monday, 8:00 pm, 15U vs. Kahuku, Kilauea gym (CAL)
Tuesday, 4:00 pm, 13U, Practice, Makiki Park
Tuesday, 7:15 pm, 17U vs. Falcons, Kalani HS gym (Kalani Varsity League)
Wednesday, 4:00 pm, 13U, Practice, Makiki Park
Wednesday, 7:15 pm, 17U vs. Monarchs, Kalani HS gym (Kalani Varsity League)
Thursday (4th of July) - No practice (unless requested by players)

JV: Thunder 53, Rough Riders 35

A solid first half, then, true to form, a soft second half. That's been the pattern for our 15U this year. The good news is that these guys usually finish strong. We led 40-20 in the first half, solid all-around play from our starters, then three 3-pointers off the bench by Felcris. Also good play from reserves Javan, Joshua and Keanu.

Nice first-half play from Sifo, Tone, Jerry, Kyle and Tanielu. When this group in 15U is playing well, they really roll. Big time.

The way I nitpick, you'd think I was talking about an average or below-average team if you didn't know better. But we're 7-0 in the Pearl City JV Summer League. We've got some improved teams to play again on the schedule, so it gets more challenging from here. But overall, the guys are playing together, playing with great teamwork and hustle most of the time. That's half the battle.

The other half is consistent improvement, and the lack of consistent intensity on the boards and defense is my biggest concern. It should never matter who the competition is. Defensive intensity should always be full throttle. That's what championships are about. Everybody else who plays soft just fades out of contention. And I HATE soft defense.

As for the transition game that I always endorse, we did that real well in the first half. We better have — Roosevelt played most of the first half with just four players. One of these games, we'll actually be in fantastic shape physically, play a team that likes to run as much as us, and have a really wild, high-scoring battle that would break some team records. That day will come. We shall see.

Next: 

Friday, 5:00 pm, Practice, Makiki Park

Saturday, 2:00 pm, 15U vs. Monarchs JV, Pearl City High School gym (Pearl City JV League)

Sunday, 11:00 am, Practice, McCully gym

Monday, 8:00 pm, 15U vs. Kahuku, Kilauea gym (CAL)

Tuesday, 4:00 pm, 13U, Practice, Makiki Park

Tuesday, 7:15 pm, 17U vs. Falcons, Kalani HS gym (Kalani Varsity League)

Wednesday, 4:00 pm, 13U, Practice, Makiki Park

Wednesday, 7:15 pm, 17U vs. Monarchs, Kalani HS gym (Kalani Varsity League)

Thursday (4th of July) - No practice (unless requested by players)

Video: Thunder 15U vs Chargers JV

H1 Thunder vs. Chargers (Pearl City), Pearl City Junior Varsity Summer League, Saturday, June 22, 2013, Pearl City High School gym. Chargers have a smaller, stronger roster this time around. The home team chipped away and made it close toward the end before we got the win.

Part 1


Part 2

Video: Thunder 13U vs Laie

H1 Thunder vs. Laie, Compete & Learn 13U League, Saturday, June 22, 2013, McCully District Park Gym. Close game before we pulled away in the fourth quarter.

Part 1


Part 2


Part 3

13U: Makakilo 47, Thunder 46, OT

Another tall team and another tough battle from start to finish. I always say players win games and coaches lose games, so here's what I think.

• I still haven't been comfortable with our bench in these games when Kalai is not available. We used to have Kali‘a come off the bench for a lot of instant offense and size in the low post. What a luxury that was! With Kalai missing and Chris sidelined (his bone bruise is healing nicely), I have yet to find a consistent rotation with a reserve unit that is all guards. That's something I need to figure out quick.

• We pressed most of the night, as usual, but Makakilo never buckled like other teams do. The only time we pulled back the press was when one of our reserves entered the game in the second half and we dropped the fullcourt press. But when our starters re-entered the game, they went right back to the fullcourt press. I almost had them drop it, but I liked their energy level. In hindsight, with Tanielu and Kyle playing so many minutes, it would've been better to pull back and sit in a 2-3 zone, or even man to man (we did the latter late in the game).

• Some of tonight's result was about free-throw shooting down the stretch and free-throw shooting in the soccer-shootout style overtime periods. That comes back to what we do at practice, and we haven't done enough free-throw shooting — my fault. We didn't shoot badly at the line as a team tonight, but there's room for improvement, definitely.

All in all, we got a lot of hustle from everybody tonight. Tani must've drove for loose balls eight or nine times. We don't lack heart, that's for sure. But I want everyone to remember, we win a large share of close games. Losing one doesn't make us any worse of a team, just like winning a one-point game doesn't make us that much better of a team. But as a coach, there had to be a way to get more out of our bench and I didn't find one that could get us just one more point, or hold Makakilo to one less point. That's what I mean when I say coaches lose games, not players.

Props to Makakilo for a great battle. If this helps us become a better team, then good. We have a lot of good moments to build on and a lot of mental and physical errors that we can improve on, too. The key will be to stay focused and hungry regardless of wins and losses. When the emotions fade, it's commitment, work ethic and attitude that will push us higher as a team. We've got a lot to look forward to tomorrow, next week, next month.

Next:
Thursday, June 27

6:00 pm - Thunder 15U vs. Rough Riders JV (Pearl City JV League)
> Note: Original time was 7:00, but the league allowed us to play at 6:00 instead.
7:15 pm - Thunder 17U vs. Rough Riders (Kalani Varsity League)

Friday, June 28

5:00 pm - Practice, Makiki Park

Saturday, June 29
2:00 pm - Thunder 15U vs. Monarchs JV (Pearl City JV League)

Sunday, June 30
11:00 am - Practice, McCully Gym

Video: Thunder 13U vs Sharks

H1 Thunder vs. Sharks, Compete & Learn 13U League, Kilauea District Park Gym, Friday, June 21, 2013. Close battle against the tall Sharks. Final: Thunder 46, Sharks 45.

Part 1


Part 2


Part 3

Video: Thunder 15U vs Marauders JV

H1 Thunder vs. Marauders (Waipahu), Pearl City Junior Varsity Summer League, Thursday, June 20, 2013, Pearl City High School gym. They suited up 21 players, so they kept coming in with 5 players at a time. It's not easy for any coach to get consistency with a roster that massive, but their coach did his best. Kudos to him. Our guys played solid ball most of the afternoon, growing and maturing one game at a time.


Part 1


Part 2

Video: Thunder 17U vs Eagles

H1 Thunder vs. Eagles (Hawaii Baptist), Kalani Varsity Summer League, Tuesday, June 18, 2013, Earl C. Holmer Gymnasium. An excellent battle with a team that kind of resembles our Thunder. They love to push the ball, find the open 3. But our edge was our depth and defensive resiliency. We led by 10 when HBA hit three treys in a row to cut it to 36-35, but our guys never lost focus or composure.

Part 1


Part 2

Fundraiser, trip update 6/25

Some info on fundraisers, the road trip and more.

• Sam's Town - Yes, we have two complimentary breakfast buffets while we're there, exactly two per room. That won't give us free breakfasts every day, but it's really nice to have.

• Chevron Kahala - I called, was instructed to see the website, and the rules are very, very clear. Nobody younger than 15 can be involved in a car wash there. Also, the organization must have non-profit status (we don't have that yet). And one of the other rules is that there must be at least eight people washing and eight people drying the car, and at least two people on the sidewalk with signs, basically. It's very specific and very profitable, from what I hear. But unless our 15U and 17U step up and come to the fundraisers — the cost for their league/tournament entry fees this year is more than $4,000 — we don't have the manpower.

ALSO ... the lady on the phone said the wait list is 6-7 months. I followed the website instructions and e-mailed them. Hopefully, they can slot us in. It would be awesome once we get the manpower. They only charge $50 for the fee. McCully Union charges $325.

• McCully Union — I called this morning and they said the Sunday July 7 date is open. Unless I hear from a lot of parents about other commitments and plans, I'll sign us up for that date. It'll be great to make more money before we fly out a few days later.

Monday Funday

The Thunder ballers keep working. Another solid workout, lots of conditioning, lots of on-ball drilling, a lot of physical adjustments preparing for the road ahead. Today's crew: Kali'a Mielke, Javan Montiho, Kyle Moraga, Ryan Higashionna, Jared Elwin, Micah Visoria, Felcris Jay Corpuz, Sierra Murobayashi. Coach Rob Mielke helped out a ton when we went to work on our halfcourt game.

The conditioning will make a huge difference in the coming weeks of CAL League and JV league play, and ultimately, on the 13U Road Trip. Wish everybody could make it. We need to be at full force in top shape if we're going to reach our potential. WE LUB THIS GAME!

Next: 13U workout with Coach Nate (pending), Tuesday, 5:00 pm, Makiki Park field.

Also: 17U vs. Buffanblu, Tuesday, 7:15 pm, Kalani HS gym.

Video: Thunder 15U vs Royals JV

H1 Thunder vs. Royals (Hanalani), Pearl City Junior Varsity Summer League, Saturday, June 15, 2013, Pearl City High School gym. Good effort by the Thunder against a tall, but raw group of Royals.

Part 1


Part 2

This week

Here's a look at this week. Please arrive at games one hour early. Thanks everybody!

Monday, June 24
5:00 pm - Practice, Makiki Park

Tuesday, June 25
7:15 pm - Thunder 17U vs. Buffanblu (Kalani Varsity League)
Note: Coach Nate Dudoit will have a 5:00 pm workout on the field at Makiki Park if enough players are interested.

Wednesday, June 26
7:10 pm - Thunder 13U vs. Makakilo, Kilauea Gym

Thursday, June 27
6:00 pm - Thunder 15U vs. Rough Riders JV (Pearl City JV League)
> Note: Original time was 7:00, but the league allowed us to play at 6:00 instead.
7:15 pm - Thunder 17U vs. Rough RIders (Kalani Varsity League)

Saturday, June 29
2:00 pm - Thunder 15U vs. Monarchs JV (Pearl City JV League)

Sunday, June 30

11:00 am - Practice, McCully gym 

Sunday Funday at Car Wash updated

Congrats to everybody who came down to work at the H1 Thunder Car Wash today at McCully Union Service Station. We had 14 players there and a lot of parents also working in support of the kids.

In all, including T-shirt sales, presale tickets and walk-up customers, we unofficially grossed more than $1,400, surpassing last year's Car Wash ($1,340).

No word yet on the next Car Wash. If we have enough able bodies, and if the space is available, we'll go again on Sunday, July 7 — before the 13U Road Trip. If that's not available, we'll do one in late July (after the trip).

For the players and parents who may not know, the total cost of 17U, 15U, 13U and 12U league and tournament entry fees this year is more than $10K. So, as great as today's turnout was, we're simply chipping away. If we do one Car Wash per month, we'll be in a healthier state.

Now, I haven't even mentioned the cost of the road trip yet in this post. That will take time to cover, but we'll get there. The unity we have is amazing. The parental support is awesome! So we'll keep playing, practicing and working toward all kinds of goals and dreams.

More later. I have to return a lot of supplies to Wal-Mart (that were purchased on Saturady) since the parents brought so many supplies this morning. And (hopefully) get a nice refund. Mahalo to all the parents who pitched in and saved the team a whole lot of money. I hope. I'll know more after I make a drive to Wal-Mart next.

Finally, a humongous MAHALO to all the friends, family, co-workers and others who came to the Car Wash today to support us. This is the kind of sharing and caring that keeps our hope alive for the things we love to do. Playing together. Coaching. Cheering. Sweating and pushing harder at practice. Learning composure under pressure in games. We have so much support from outside our team, it's something we can be grateful for.

Great job today, Thunder. Unofficial count: 73 cars washed. Photos later tonight.

Update 8:20 pm - Got a refund on everything else I bought from Wal-Mart for the Car Wash. The original tab was $447. I got $308 back by returning all the chamois (shammy), buckets and extra long-handle stuff. 

Along with the $325 fee charged by McCully Union, that means our expenses for the Car Wash are $444. Not bad. If not for all the supplies all our parents brought, plus essentials like tents and tables, the bill would've been spectacularly higher. 

Gross (unofficial): $1,448

Expenses: $444

Net: $1,004

Not bad for a half-rainy day. Teamwork is so cool. 

Video: Car Wash

Go ahead and share this with your family and friends. Sneak peek: Give your car a bath and support local keikis at the same time!

Car Wash update 6/22

We went to Walmart after today's games and picked up everything else we needed for tomorrow's Car Wash. (Actually, we got more than we needed. I'm returning whatever we don't use after we're done.)

I'll be at McCully Union around 7:30 am. I'll have some breakfast stuff from McDonald's.

NOTE: All players please wear your jerseys for the Car Wash. That way drivers/passers-by will know exactly what we're doing it for. WE LUB THIS GAME!

15U: Thunder 52, Chargers JV 49

Saturday Funday
This was another one of those games with big swings. Pearl City had a better, stronger lineup than the first time we played them. Back in the first matchup, they had at least 12 or 15 guys and we beat them with only 4 players in the final minutes of regulation and overtime. Chris Tatupu Afe hurt his leg that night.) This time, they had a solid core.

Still, we had a pretty good lead in the first half, but there was some lethargy. Maybe it's fatigue. But we had to go to the bench earlier than I expected, and though we never trailed, that big lead got chipped away by the Chargers. In the end, we played solid fullcourt defense, rebounded very well and made a lot of great passes offensively. Guys were moving smartly without the ball, and that makes the game so much easier.

15U rarely wins a game easy from start to finish, but the guys (and girl) always play with heart. Good rebounding day for Tone Lauvao, Sisifo Lauvao, Kyle Moraga. A lot of guys were fantastic on the press: Jerry KillMet Killion, Jared Elwin, Sifo. Our bench played super solid in the first half: Micah Visoria, Javan Montiho (Julie Montiho), Joshua de Jesus (Josh).

When we play with a strong sense of urgency, good things happen. A lot of good things. Very quickly. WE LUB THIS GAME!

13U: Thunder 45, Laie 28

Saturday Funday
Close game for more than a half, but we finally wore them down. Very good game defensively against a big, rugged core of Laie post players. We closed out on their perimeter shooters consistently. Not sure if they made any treys. As expected, we got a big boost from our young guards (12U) like Micah Visoria (hit at least one 3), Ryan Higashionna, Javan Montiho. We also got some solid minutes from Walter Berthold and Felcris Jay Corpuz (Last King).

It wasn't easy with Kyle Moraga not available, but our starters were strong. Tanielu Mosi Afe hit the boards hard, closed on the fastbreak often. Jared Elwin was excellent at the point, hit an open 3 off the break and super defense. Joshua de Jesus (Josh) was solid on our Sonic defense, roaming corner to corner and making that whole defense work while Kalai Kuia was not available. Kali'a Mielke was strong on the low post, never gave up against some strong defenders. He was outstanding when they broke our press and challenged him on 2-on-1 breaks. Only 3 fouls in extended minutes.

Another gritty team victory for the Thunder!

Condolences to Afe-Passion ohana

Our hearts go out to Tani and Chris' family, the Afe-Passion ohana. Their grandpa on their dad's side passed away tonight. Tani and Chris found out after the game. He was one of the people who supported the boys in playing sports, a big baseball and basketball fan. We prayed for the boys and their family, their dad (Drake). They have an amazing family that any grandparent would be proud of.

13U: Thunder 46, Sharks 45

Gritty team effort tonight for a tough win. The Sharks are a different team now, basically, with five former Makakilo players from what I hear. We had some terrific execution on both ends. Kali'a Mielke was outstanding on the low post with his array of fundamental moves. Tanielu Mosi Afe was super effective on the high post, low post, on the fastbreak, smart defense. Kyle Moraga hit big shots, including a few from 3-point range, and ran the offense with Jared Elwin smoothly most of the night. Kalai Kuia was superb defensively. I still don't agree with some of the calls/fouls he was charged with. Joshua de Jesus was solid off the bench defensively, hustling back to stop the Sharks' fastbreak.

It was a different kind of game this time since the Sharks are so tall and athletic now. They've got some good players, at least one, who played for Waipahu in the Aiea League, plus those Makakilo guys. Plus the shooters and guards they already had. We couldn't afford to lose out on the boards, so the rotation was not what it normally is.

Tomorrow's going to be a different look for us since Kyle won't be available. All our guards, the starters and reserves, will have to be ready, will have to play strong against Laie. The guys who didn't play many minutes tonight should be well rested tomorrow morning. A lot of energy is going to be good for us.

Next: Thunder 13U vs. Laie, Saturday, 9:50 am, McCully gym
Thunder 15U vs. Chargers, Saturday, 2:00 pm, Pearl City High School gym

Car Wash update 6/21

Here's the update on Car Wash supplies. Please bring the supplies we need for Sunday and let me know. Whatever's missing, we'll pick up at the store. Better to spend less, naturally. 

Note: Please return all unsold presale tickets to me at the Car Wash along with the cash from sold tickets. Mahalo to Auntie Char and Coach Bo for printing them again! 

Supplies needed: 

3 hoses (minimum 25') - Coach Bo, Coach Roy, Kalai

3 gun-type triggers 

Car wash soap - Coach Paul

5-gallon buckets (6) - Eric Murobayashi 

Small step stool (for reaching top of vans and trucks) - Eric Murobayashi (1)

Long-handled soft-bristled brushes can substitute for step stools - Eric Murobayashi (1)

Large hand sponges (at least 15) - I have 6 (Paul) 

Hard-bristled wheel brushes (at least 4) - Coach Bo 

Squeegees (at least 5) - Kalai

Chamois or water sprite for drying (at least 20) - Eric Murobayashi (2)

Cash box 

Water, drinks and snacks for all - Eriko Berthold (musubi), Kalai (water), 

Car was signs (at least 4)

Also: 4-foot ladder - Eric Murobayashi

SHIFT SCHEDULE 

8:00 am to 12:00 pm 

Sierra Murobayashi 

Eric Murobayashi 

Joy Murobayashi

Walter Berthold 

Mark Berthold 

Kali‘a Mielke 

Robert Mielke 

Kalai Kuia 

Keano Kuia 

Coach Paul 

Coach Bo 

12:00 pm to 4:00 pm 

Kali‘a Mielke 

Robert Mielke 

Coach Paul 

Coach Bo 

Ryan Higashionna

Nate Higashionna

Note: The guys who work both shifts will get double credit. We need everyone from 17U, 15U, 13U and 12U to pitch in. The costs of playing basketball are rising, but we can manage them by working together. 

The Car Wash will be at McCully Union Service Station, 2105 S. King St. (next to McDonald's).

Video: Thunder 17U vs Lanakila

H1 Thunder vs. Lanakila, Kalani Varsity Summer League, Thursday, June 13, 2013, Earl C. Holmer Gym. We fell behind early, then rallied in the second half to within 2 points before losing 57-50. Good battle.

Part 1


Part 2

Video: Thunder 15U vs Monarchs

H1 Thunder vs. Monarchs (Damien), Pearl City Junior Varsity League, Thursday, June 13, 2013, Pearl City High School gym. Damien has a solid nucleus of JV players. Lucky for us, several were missing on this day. They played with just 5 guys, and we wore them out in the second half. Another good team win for the Thunder!

Part 1


Part 2

Car Wash update

Here's the update on Car Wash supplies. Please bring the supplies we need for Sunday and let me know. Whatever's missing, we'll pick up at the store. Better to spend less, naturally. 

Note: Please return all unsold presale tickets to me at the Car Wash along with the cash from sold tickets. Mahalo to Auntie Char and Coach Bo for printing them again! 

Supplies needed: 

3 hoses (minimum 25') - Coach Bo, Coach Roy, Kalai

3 gun-type triggers 

Car wash soap - Coach Paul
5-gallon buckets (6) 

Small step stool (for reaching top of vans and trucks) 

Long-handled soft-bristled brushes can substitute for step stools 

Large hand sponges (at least 15) - I have 6 (Paul) 

Hard-bristled wheel brushes (at least 4) - Coach Bo 

Squeegees (at least 5) - Kalai

Chamois or water sprite for drying (at least 20) 

Cash box 

Water, drinks and snacks for all - Eriko Berthold (musubi), Kalai (water), 

Car was signs (at least 4)

SHIFT SCHEDULE 

8:00 am to 12:00 pm 

Sierra Murobayashi 

Eric Murobayashi 

Walter Berthold 

Mark Berthold 

Kali‘a Mielke 

Robert Mielke 

Kalai Kuia 

Keano Kuia 

Coach Paul 

Coach Bo 

12:00 pm to 4:00 pm 

Kali‘a Mielke 

Robert Mielke 

Coach Paul 

Coach Bo 

Ryan Higashionna

Nate Higashionna

Note: The guys who work both shifts will get double credit. 

The Car Wash will be at McCully Union Service Station, 2105 S. King St. (next to McDonald's).

Cost breakdown

Howzit everybody. Please note: If you have played on any of the Thunder teams this year (17U, 15U, 13U, 12U), we need everybody there. The cost of all the league entry fees, uniforms (new reversibles this year), tournaments, food surpasses what we have collected as a team. Here's a breakdown of this year's entry fees, including tournaments this summer.

17U: Aiea Spring League ($350), NJB All-Net League ($600+$75 insurance), PAA Varsity Tournament ($240), Aiea Goodwill Tournament ($275), St. Francis Varsity League ($400), Kalani Varsity League ($400), Aiea Varsity Summer Tournament (wait list) ($275), NJB Summer Classic ($325).

15U: NJB All-Net League ($600+$75 insurance), PAA Spring Tournament ($240), PAA Spring League ($440), Pearl City JV League ($350), CAL Summer League ($400), Aiea JV Summer Tournament ($275), NJB Summer Classic ($325), PAA Fall League ($440). .

13U: Aiea Tournament ($275), NJB All-Net League ($600+$75 insurance), PAA Spring League ($440), CAL Middle School League ($400), CAL Summer League ($400); Swoosh National Championship ($350), Swoosh So Cal Ultimate Showcase ($350), PAA Fall League ($440).

12U: Aiea Winter League ($350), Aiea Spring League ($350).

Entry fee totals (by age group):

17U - $2,940
15U - $3,145
13U - $3,330
12U - $700
Total: $10,115

Big mahalo to the parents who have paid for a portion of their child's cost. That helped a lot!

Other costs include post-game meals (McDonald's) and uniforms. My estimate on post-game (and post-practice) snacks, meals, water, Gatorade so far this year is $2,000. Even with the dollar menu.

Uniforms:
17U, 15U: 20 reversibles and shorts x $50 = $1,000
13U/12U: 15 gray ($400), 15 blue ($400), 15 orange ($400).

We will chip away at these costs, and the 13U (July Road Trip) will do more work, of course, with car washes throughout the year. But we also want to prepare for next year's costs by continuing with car washes and other fundraisers, keep the ball rolling.

Wednesday update

Wednesday at Makiki Park. The 13U worked their tails off. It's a grind, getting into top physical shape, working to a peak by the time we arrive in the desert in three weeks. But I don't have to say much at all. The boys are hungry. They are of one mind. One spirit. So they work through every task I ask of them.

Today's practice crew: Kali‘a, Kyle, Jared, Joshua, Javan and Kaiser. Chris came, too. He's off the crutches, walking with a limp. That bone bruise on his shine is healing gradually. Him being there physically does more for the guys than words can say. His heart is in it, just like everyone else.

The parents meeting went well. We worked on details, stuff that only veteran travelers like Rob (Kali‘a's dad) and Carl (Javan's dad) would know. But the plane reservations have been paid for. The hotel rooms and mini-vans have been booked.

Reminder: Car Wash is this Sunday. If you haven't decided which shift (or both) you will work on, let me know. I'll send out a list of the shifts and stuff we still need in the morning. WE LUB THIS GAME!

Video: Thunder 15U vs Falcons

H1 Thunder vs. Falcons (Kalani), Compete & Learn 15U League, Wednesday, June 12, 2013, Kilauea District Park Gym. Last game of pool play. We needed a win to qualify for the championship bracket. A loss would knock us down into a three-way tie with the Falcons and Titans for that spot. 

Kalani outplayed us for a half and led 18-11. Then they kept it going and led 26-16. But our guys kept working and never gave up. Final: Thunder 43, Falcons 34.

Part 1


Part 2

Varsity: Thunder 48, Eagles 42

Good battle with HBA tonight. I like what the Eagles do, a lot of smart ball movement, solid ballhandling, and some nice 3-point shooting. That's something they've been doing for a few years now, and it's fun to watch. We had a 10-point lead in the second half when they hit three treys in a row.

Then our defense got back on track. Another good game for Isaiah, solid rebounding and defense by Tone Lauvao, and a superb job on the offensive boards and fullcourt press by John Chow (Boogie). A good team win!

Wednesday, June 19
5:00 pm - Practice
6:00 pm - Parents meeting, Makiki Park (potluck/snacks)

Thursday, June 20
7:00 pm - Thunder 15U vs. Hurricanes JV (Pearl City JV League)
note: bye in Kalani Varsity League

Friday, June 21
7:10 pm - Thunder 13U vs. Sharks, Kilauea gym (CAL)

Saturday, June 22
9:50 am - Thunder 13U vs. Laie, McCully gym (CAL)
2:00 pm - Thunder 15U vs. Chargers JV (Pearl City JV League)

Sunday, June 23
8:00 am Car wash
4:00 pm Car wash pau

13U Road Trip: photo IDs and more

13U - For the Swoosh Tournaments on the road trip, bring 1) a copy of your birth certificate, and 2) a photo ID. School ID will do. The tournament requires this for the 8th graders playing in the 13U tourney, but I want everyone to bring the stuff just to be safe.

Also, bring the blue, orange and gray uniforms. If you don't have all of them, let me know. I have to submit a roster with everybody's jersey numbers and birthdates (I have everybody's birthdates).

13U Road Trip: updated itinerary

Updated Itinerary, 6/18
(subject to change)

Wednesday, July 10

7:00 pm - Meet at HNL Airport

10:15 pm - Depart to LAX, Flight - UA 1233 (redeye)

Thursday, July 11

7:00 am (PST) - Arrive in LAX

7:41 am - Depart to LAS, Flight - UA 5597

8:54 am (MST) - Arrive in LAS

10:00 am - Check in at Sam's Town (if possible before noon) 

11:00 am - Practice (site TBD)

1:00 pm - Lunch (McDonald's at Sam's)

2:00 pm - R&R (rest and relaxation)

3:00 pm - Walmart (across Boulder Hwy): buy rice cooker, hot pot, frying pan, food

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - Bowling (Sam's Town)

10:00 pm - Lights out

Friday, July 12

7:00 am - Breakfast

8:00 am - Drive to Swoosh Tournament

12:00 pm - Lunch

5:00 pm - Leave tourney

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - Movie (Sam's Town)

10:00 pm - LIghts out

Saturday, July 13

7:00 am - Breakfast

8:00 am - Drive to Swoosh Tournament

12:00 pm - Lunch

5:00 pm - Leave tourney

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - R&R (Las Vegas 51s baseball game?)

10:00 pm - Lights out

Sunday, July 14

7:00 am - Breakfast

8:00 am - Drive to Swoosh Tournament

12:00 pm - Lunch

5:00 pm - Leave tourney

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - R&R (go-karts?)

10:00 pm - LIghts out

Monday, July 15

8:00 am - Breakfast

9:00 am - Water park

12:00 pm - Lunch

1:00 pm - NBA Summer League

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - NBA Summer League

10:00 pm - Lights out

Tuesday, July 16

2:00 am - Carl Javan Kalai leave for airport

5:30 am - Depart for SF, Flight - UA 0728

7:05 am - Carl Javan Kalai arrive SF 

8:00 am - Breakfast

8:45 am - Carl Javan Kalai depart for HNL

9:00 am - Practice

11:00 am - Check out of Sam's Town

11:06 am - Carl Javan Kalai arrive in HNL 

12:00 pm - Lunch

1:00 pm - Drive to Anaheim

6:00 pm - Arrive in Anaheim, check in at Motel 6 (Stanton)

7:00 pm - Dinner

8:00 pm - R&R

10:00 pm - Lights out

Wednesday, July 17

5:00 am - Wake up

6:00 am - Practice

8:00 am - Breakfast

9:00 am - Entertainment by a mouse?

11:00 am - Lunch

12:00 pm - Entertainment by a mouse?

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - R&R

10:00 pm - Lights out

Thursday, July 18

8:00 am - Breakfast

9:00 am - Practice

11:00 am - Lunch

12:00 pm - Visit Staples Center, Rose Bowl, Coliseum, Venice Beach courts?

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - R&R (Angels game?)

10:00 pm - Lights out

Friday, July 19

8:00 am - Breakfast

9:00 am - Swoosh Tournament (Garden Grove)

5:00 pm - Leave tournament, back to hotel, shower

6:00 pm - Dinner (early)

7:00 pm - R&R

10:00 pm - Lights out

Saturday, July 20

7:00 am - Breakfast

8:00 am - Warmups

9:00 am - Swoosh Tournament (Garden Grove)

5:00 pm - Leave tournament, back to hotel, shower

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - R&R

10:00 pm - Lights out

Sunday, July 21

7:00 am - Breakfast

7:30 am - Check out of hotel (except for one room)

8:00 am - Warmups

9:00 am - Swoosh Tournament (Garden Grove)

2:00 pm - Leave tournament, back to hotel, shower

3:00 pm - Go to airport

4:00 pm - Arrive at LAX

6:56 pm - Depart LAS, Flight - UA 1232

10:00 pm (HST) - Arrive in HNL

This week

Please arrive 1 hour before game time for warmups/stretching/lower my stress level. If you need a ride, call me 551-1054. 

Tuesday, June 18
7:15 pm - Thunder 17U vs. Eagles (Kalani Varsity League)

Wednesday, June 19
5:00 pm - Practice
6:00 pm - Parents meeting, Makiki Park (potluck/snacks)

Thursday, June 20
7:00 pm - Thunder 15U vs. Hurricanes JV (Pearl City JV League)
note: bye in Kalani Varsity League

Friday, June 21
7:10 pm - Thunder 13U vs. Sharks, Kilauea gym (CAL)

Saturday, June 22
9:50 am - Thunder 13U vs. Laie, McCully gym (CAL)
2:00 pm - Thunder 15U vs. Chargers JV (Pearl City JV League)

Sunday, June 23
8:00 am Car wash
4:00 pm Car wash pau

Special conditioning Tuesday

Carl Montiho, Javan's dad, said that his friend, Coach Nate Dudoit, will be at Makiki Park on the open field every Tuesday at 5:00 pm for anyone who wants to do some elite conditioning work. Coach Nate works with a lot of the top local athletes, including football players like Isaac Savaiinaea and Canton Kaumatule. I don't know Nate personally, but I've heard good things about him and his conditioning program.

Also, he runs conditioning workouts on Saturdays, 8:00 am, on the rolling hills at Kakaako Park. So mark your calendars and show up if you'd like to get into top physical peak condition.

We've been doing more conditioning work at Thunder practices on Sunday and today. We're in that mode now, preparing for the Vegas/Anaheim tournaments. It's been good work.

Today, we had Kali‘a, Kyle, Jared, Javan, Kaiser and Micah. Everyone did a great job. The job isn't about burning every player out 3-4 weeks before the Road Trip. It's about cross training, working to get in peak shape gradually, and staying hydrated. During the hottest months of the year, it's crucial to stay hydrated during these workouts. I want us to be ready for that desert heat, and we'll be more than ready if we keep up this good work.

Again, the workout with Coach Nate is tomorrow (Tuesday), 5:00 pm. If I'm not on the road picking up guys for the 7:15 game at Kalani Varsity Summer League, I'll be there at Makiki Park to observe and learn. I'll leave the running to you guys!

Parents meeting Wednesday 6 pm

Makiki Park - We'll have a short practice (5:00) and then parents meeting. We'll discuss more details about the car wash and more fundraisers, as well as the 13U Road Trip (July).

For parents who are going to pay part or all their cost, please bring your check to the meeting. We will discuss the budget for the trip.

Video: Thunder 15U vs Rough Riders

H1 Thunder vs. Rough Riders (Roosevelt), Pearl City Junior Varsity Summer League, Saturday, June 8, 2013, Pearl City High School gym. Strong start for our young guys. The 15U really finding their groove.

Part 1


Part 2

Video: Thunder 17U vs Jr Bows

H1 Thunder vs. Jr. 'Bows (University), Kalani Varsity Summer League, Tuesday, June 11, 2013, Earl C. Holmer Gym. Second game in one week against the 'Bows. This time, they beat us.

Part 1


Part 2

Video: Thunder 12U vs Aiea Blazers

H1 Thunder vs. Aiea Blazers, Aiea 12U League playoffs (third-place game), Aiea District Park gym, Saturday, June 8, 2013. The guys did their best with a thin lineup (Kodee gone, Chris injured). Proud of the Thunder!

Part 1


Part 2

Word hard, play hard

Super workout today at McCully for Kyle Moraga, De Jesus Jimark,Joshua de Jesus, Sierra Murobayashi and Felcris Jay Corpuz. Got a lot of conditioning, defensive drills in. A lot of shooting drills, catch-and-shoot drills (w/screens). Got a lot of work done in 90 minutes. Work ethic and great attitudes = success. Happy Father's Day, everybody.

We headed to Coach Bo and Auntie Char's place after that for a cookout. The boys spent 3-4 hours in the pool. Might as well have been a palace with all that food and generosity. Thanks Bo & Char!

Auntie Devie rocking the original Thunder t-shirt

with a tie-dye twist.

Joshua sipping sweet calamansi juice.

"Like a boss," he says.

Felcris, Jimark, Kyle, Tai and Joshua. 

JV: Thunder 15U 54, Royals 34

Thunder 15u now 4-0 in the Pearl City JV League after a win over the Hanalani Royals. Sorry I can't remember the score. We had a strong start, up 11-2 and kept the pressure on all game. It's neat to see everybody adjust to playing man defense in the first half (league rule). The guys off the bench really liked play man defense fullcourt. Lots of energy.

Got strong team ball from everybody. Passing has always been one of our strong suits with Sisifo Lauvao, Kyle Moraga, Tanielu Mosi Afe. With Tone Lauvao in the mix, delivering pinpoint passes in the key, that adds more to it. (When Chris Tatupu Afe) gets back, the passing will get even more better.

De Jesus Jimark good defense on the ball fullcourt, a valuable weapon we can deploy without having to use the entire team to press. Javan Montiho Julie Montiho) and Felcris Jay Corpuz were solid off the bench with Joshua de Jesus. They gave us a lot of good defense and some nice transition baskets.

Good team win today.

Next: Practice, Sunday, 11:00 am, McCully gym. 1:00 pm - For the guys who don't have daytime Father's Day plans, BBQ/pool party at Coach Bo & Auntie Char's place afterward (Date St. near ‘Iolani School).

BIG MAHALO to Coach Loto for picking up almost all the boys today before the game. I was going to pick up some of them when I got a call from my brother reminding me about my nephew's grad party, which I thought was on Sunday. Thanks Loto!

Video: Thunder 17U vs Patriots

H1 Thunder vs. Patriots (Christian Academy), St. Francis Varsity Summer League, Saturday, June 8, 2013, St. Francis High School gym. Close game for a half, then the Thunder caught fire.

Part 1



Part 2

Video: Thunder 12U vs Asing Park

H1 Thunder vs. Asing Park Heat, Aiea 12U League, semifinal round, Aiea District Park gym, Saturday, June 8, 2013. We fell behind early and trailed 22-7 at the half. Asing Park played well and we were very rusty, missing a lot of easy shots. But we rallied late in the game and got within 3 or 4 points before losing 37-31.

Everybody played their hearts out. But not practicing during that two-week break between games hurt us. Just so busy with all the age-group teams. Also, Chris hurt his leg (bone bruise) in a game two days before this game, a huge loss. But we had a very good season and our 12U players got a lot of valuable playing time against good competition.

Part 1


Part 2

13U Road Trip Itinerary 6/15

Revised 6/15
Waiting for confirmation on plane reservations with our travel agent.
All road trip scheduling subject to change, of course. Especially with entertainment. Hoping to get free Disneyland passes.

Updated Itinerary, 6/15

Wednesday, July 10

Evening - Fly HNL to LA (redeye)

Thursday, July 11

Arrive in Las Vegas, check in

8:00 am - Breakfast

9:00 am - Practice

11:00 am - Hotel, shower

12:00 pm - Lunch

1:00 pm - Orleans Hotel (bowling)

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - R&R  (rest and relaxation)

10:00 pm - Lights out

Friday, July 12

7:00 am - Breakfast

8:00 am - Drive to Swoosh Tournament

12:00 pm - Lunch

5:00 pm - Leave tourney

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - NBA Summer League (UNLV)

10:00 pm - LIghts out

Saturday, July 13

7:00 am - Breakfast

8:00 am - Drive to Swoosh Tournament

12:00 pm - Lunch

5:00 pm - Leave tourney

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - NBA Summer League (UNLV)

10:00 pm - LIghts out

Sunday, July 14

7:00 am - Breakfast

8:00 am - Drive to Swoosh Tournament

12:00 pm - Lunch

5:00 pm - Leave tourney

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - NBA Summer League (UNLV)

10:00 pm - LIghts out

Monday, July 15

8:00 am - Breakfast

9:00 am - water park

12:00 pm - Lunch

1:00 pm - NBA Summer League

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - NBA Summer League

10:00 pm - Lights out

Tuesday, July 16

8:00 am - Breakfast

9:00 am - Practice

9:00 am - Kalai, Javan, Carl depart back to HNL

11:00 am - Check out

12:00 pm - Lunch

1:00 am - Go-karts

2:00 pm - Drive to Anaheim

7:00 pm - Arrive in Anaheim, check in

8:00 pm - Dinner

9:00 pm - R&R

10:00 pm - Lights out

Wednesday, July 17

5:00 am - Wake up

6:00 am - Practice

8:00 am - Breakfast

9:00 am - Entertainment

11:00 am - Lunch

12:00 pm - Entertainment

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - R&R

10:00 pm - Lights out

Thursday, July 18

8:00 am - Breakfast

9:00 am - Practice

11:00 am - Lunch

12:00 pm - Visit Staples Center, Rose Bowl, Coliseum, Venice Beach courts?

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - R&R

10:00 pm - Lights out

Friday, July 19

8:00 am - Breakfast

9:00 am - Swoosh Tournament (Garden Grove)

5:00 pm - Leave tournament, back to hotel, shower

6:00 pm - Dinner (early)

7:00 pm - R&R

10:00 pm - Lights out

Saturday, July 20

7:00 am - Breakfast

8:00 am - Warmups

9:00 am - Swoosh Tournament (Garden Grove)

5:00 pm - Leave tournament, back to hotel, shower

6:00 pm - Dinner

7:00 pm - R&R

10:00 pm - Lights out

Sunday, July 21

7:00 am - Breakfast

7:30 am - Check out of hotel (except for one room)

8:00 am - Warmups

9:00 am - Swoosh Tournament (Garden Grove)

2:00 pm - Leave tournament, back to hotel, shower

3:00 pm - Go to airport

7:00 pm - Fly back to HNL

Car Wash supply list, shifts

Supplies needed:
3 hoses (minimum 25')
3 gun-type triggers
Car wash soap - Coach Paul
5-gallon buckets (6)
Small step stool (for reaching top of vans and trucks)
Long-handled soft-bristled brushes can substitute for step stools
Large hand sponges (at least 15) - I have 6 (Paul)
Hard-bristled wheel brushes (at least 4) - Coach Bo
Squeegees (at least 5)
Chamois or water sprite for drying (at least 20)
Cash box
Water, drinks and snacks for all - Eriko Berthold (musubi)
Car was signs (at least 4)

Please respond to this e-mail as soon as possible if you are able to volunteer or donate supplies. (If you've already volunteered, I have you listed on your shift.) You can contact me (Char) at 389-8986 (Tai's mom). THANK YOU.

PRESALE tickets are available through Coach Paul 551-1054, Coach Bo 232-3409 or Char 389-8986. Getting the presale tickets sold is key. This helps us collect funds from family and friends who want to support us before the event. A lot of people will forget or get too busy on Car Wash day to make it there, so please collect from them via presale tickets. They want to support our Thunder.

SHIFT SCHEDULE
8:00 am to 12:00 pm 
Sierra Murobayashi
Eric Murobayashi
Walter Berthold
Mark Berthold
Kali‘a Mielke
Robert Mielke
Kalai Kuia
Keano Kuia
Coach Paul
Coach Bo

12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Kali‘a Mielke
Robert Mielke
Coach Paul
Coach Bo

The Car Wash will be at McCully Union Service Station, 2105 S. King St. (next to McDonald's). Spicy McChicken anybody?

Pick up Car Wash tickets

Coach Bo and Auntie Char have printed up tickets for the Car Wash (Sun June 23), so every will need to pick them up. Call me at 551-1054 and I will drop them off with you, or you can get them on Sunday at Bo & Char's BBQ potluck/swimming pool party at their home. (More details later.)

17U: If you have paid for all the leagues and tournaments this year, the fundraiser is optional. If you'd like to help out anyway, you are definitely welcome to help. Most of our 17U has not paid anything this year, so please pick up tickets.

15U: Most of our 15U has not paid for leagues and tournaments, so please pick up tickets.

13U: Most of our 13U has not paid for leagues and tournaments, and with the mainland trip coming up soon, this group has the most work to do.

12U: For the guys who are on 12U only, there have been just two leagues so far this year, so your fundraising isn't as heavy a load. But that's still fundraising we need to do.

Everyone who does a shift at the fundraiser will be credited a share of the funds make at the Car Wash. If some players and parents do the morning and afternoon shift, that's two shares.

All in all, we need a LOT of manpower to make this work as well as last year's Car Wash. Right now, we don't have enough people signed up. Please check the earlier e-mail and please consider working both shifts.