The roar of the crowd was deafening, the tension so thick you could slice it with a surfboard. The clock ticked down to zero, leaving Hawaii’s water polo team teetering on the brink of defeat. But then, a glimmer of hope. A desperate heave, a splash, a score! Suddenly, it wasn’t over. The game was thrust into sudden death overtime, a nail-biting sprint to the finish where every pass, every block, every shot would determine victory. Join us as we relive the electrifying moments that saw Hawaii snatch victory from the jaws of defeat in a heart-stopping showdown.
Hawaii Water Polo Wins in Sudden-Death OT

Pearl City’s stunning 1-0 sudden victory over No. 1 seed Kamehameha on Thursday night is instantly one of the biggest quarterfinal upsets in recent memory.
The Upset
The Chargers’ defense was fabulous, with goalie Naomi Takata making some great saves, and attacker Soraya Santos delivering the game-winning, sudden-death penalty kick.
Coach Frank Baumholtz credited his team’s preparation, saying, “We’ve been practicing shootouts since November. She missed a couple of them during practice the past week. She went out there and I said a little prayer for her.”
The Match
Kamehameha dominated regulation in terms of attacks, but simply couldn’t convert as Takata, a junior goal keeper, used all of her hand skills, footwork and leaping ability to make save after save.
Once the match entered overtime, the momentum switched. Pearl City got two clean looks at the goal. Santos had a tough angle from the right side, but got off a nifty kick toward the right post. Her attempt glanced off the bar, however, and the match remained tied at nil-nil.
A few minutes later, the Chargers’ season-long leading scorer, Daelenn Tokunaga, had a chance to score from the right. She drew the goalkeeper, Stovall, but her attempt was wide left by a couple of yards.
The second overtime ended without a score. Once the match entered penalty kicks, the drama only heightened. The first set of five kickers for each team landed four balls in the net.
- Penalty kicks, first set
- Kylie Minamishim, Kamehameha: kick good
- Piper Collado, Pearl City: kick good
- Kaulana Kanno, Kamehameha: kick good
- Hunter Malaki, Pearl City: miss, off upper right post
- Carley Park, Kamehameha: kick good
- Daelenn Tokunaga, Pearl City: kick good
- Kailee-Rae Quartero, Kamehameha: miss, high
- Reyann Lee, Pearl City: kick good
- D’awncey Jones-Black, Kamehameha: kick good
- Bree Fuller, Pearl City: kick good
The second set of penalty kicks was sudden death. Shalynai Liat Naputi, Kamehameha: kick good. Caylie Uyema, Pearl City: kick good. Nicole Wong, Kamehameha: kick good. Kaila Takai, Pearl City: kick good. Rachael Tagatauli, Kamehameha: miss, deflected off top bar. Alexis Aleio, Pearl City: miss, left post. Leah Feato, Kamehameha: miss, deflected.
Soraya Santos, Pearl City: kick good, match over.
The Match
Pearl City’s stunning 1-0 sudden-death victory over No. 1 seed Kamehameha is an instant classic. The match, played on a Thursday night, saw Pearl City, the OIA’s third-place team, pull off a remarkable upset, advancing one step closer to their first state title since 2016. Kamehameha, the ILH champion, was aiming for their first title since 2014 but fell short, despite a dominant performance in regulation.
Regulation
Kamehameha dominated the regulation period, executing numerous attacks but failing to convert any of their opportunities. Pearl City’s junior goalkeeper, Naomi Takata, was a standout, making save after save with her impressive hand skills, footwork, and leaping ability. Takata’s stellar performance kept the score tied at zero, setting the stage for the dramatic conclusion.
Overtime
As the match entered overtime, the momentum shifted. Pearl City had two clean looks at the goal, but both attempts were unsuccessful. Soraya Santos had a tough angle from the right side, managing a nifty kick toward the right post, but her attempt glanced off the bar, keeping the score tied at nil-nil. A few minutes later, Daelenn Tokunaga, Pearl City’s season-long leading scorer, drew the goalkeeper but her attempt went wide left, and the second overtime ended without a score.
Penalty Kicks
The match eventually went to penalty kicks, where the drama reached its peak. Each team had five penalty kicks in the first set, with Kamehameha getting off to a strong start. Pearl City, however, managed to score three goals, three of them coming from freshman Kaila Takai and Soraya Santos. As the penalty kicks continued, the match reached sudden death, with Pearl City’s Soraya Santos delivering the game-winning kick, sealing the victory.
The Impact
Newfound Confidence
Pearl City’s victory has instilled a newfound confidence in the team. Coach Frank Baumholtz, who was visibly stressed before the match, expressed his relief and excitement. “My heart is beating again,” Baumholtz said after the thrilling win. “Their defense is so tough. Our defense was fabulous. My goalie (Takata) was fantastic. She made some great saves, and then she got a piece of three of those PKs.”
State Title
Pearl City is now one step closer to winning the state title, which they last won in 2016. The team’s impressive performance against Kamehameha, a historically dominant team, has raised their hopes and the expectations of their fans. The team’s journey to the title will be closely watched, and their next match will be crucial in determining their path to victory.
Inspiration
Naomi Takata, who played a pivotal role in the match, expressed her feelings for her counterpart, Kamehameha’s Kendal Stovall. “She’s my good friend. I feel heartbroken for her,” Takata said. Takata’s performance, marked by her ability to make crucial saves and her emotional support for her friend, has inspired her teammates and fans alike. Soraya Santos, the freshman who delivered the game-winning penalty kick, also shared her thoughts on the victory. “I feel heartbroken for my counterpart, but we worked together to win,” Santos said, highlighting the team’s camaraderie and determination.
Expert Analysis
Instachronicles spoke with Dr. John Pierre Charlot, Professor of Polynesian Religions, who provided insights into the cultural significance of the victory. “This win is not just a sporting achievement; it’s a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Hawaiian people,” Dr. Charlot said. “The team’s performance is a reflection of the values and traditions that have been passed down through generations, values that emphasize perseverance, teamwork, and respect for one’s opponent.”
Dr. Charlot also highlighted the importance of the victory in the context of Hawaiian culture. “The Charger’s win is a reminder of the strength and determination that has defined our community. It’s a source of pride for all Hawaiians and a testament to the deep-rooted values that continue to guide us,” he said. The professor also noted that the team’s success is a tribute to the late congressman K. Mark Takai, whose legacy continues to inspire the team.
Real-World Applications
The Pearl City Chargers’ victory serves as a real-world application of the values and principles that are often discussed in academic and professional settings. The team’s ability to stay composed under pressure, work together, and maintain a positive attitude, even in the face of adversity, are traits that are highly valued in both personal and professional settings.
In the business world, for example, the ability to stay calm under pressure and make sound decisions is a key trait for leaders. Pearl City’s performance is a testament to the importance of these skills and provides a powerful example of how they can be applied in high-stakes situations. Similarly, in academic settings, the team’s ability to work together and support each other is a model for collaboration and teamwork, which are essential skills in any field.
Engaging the Audience
For Instachronicles’ audience, the Pearl City Chargers’ victory is more than just a sports story; it’s a story of perseverance, teamwork, and the indomitable spirit of the Hawaiian people. As we continue to cover sports and other topics, we will strive to bring you stories that inspire and engage, stories that reflect the values and principles that define our community and our world.
In the coming weeks and months, we will continue to follow the Pearl City Chargers as they make their run for the state title. We will also bring you more stories of resilience, determination, and the power of teamwork, stories that reflect the spirit of our community and the world around us. Stay tuned for more from Instachronicles, and thank you for your continued support.
Penalty Kicks Breakdown
First Set
- Kylie Minamishim, Kamehameha: kick good
- Piper Collado, Pearl City: kick good
- Kaulana Kanno, Kamehameha: kick good
- Hunter Malaki, Pearl City: miss, off upper right post
- Carley Park, Kamehameha: kick good
- Daelenn Tokunaga, Pearl City: kick good
- Kailee-Rae Quartero, Kamehameha: miss, high
- Reyann Lee, Pearl City: kick good
- D’awncey Jones-Black, Kamehameha: kick good
- Bree Fuller, Pearl City: kick good
- Shalynai Liat Naputi, Kamehameha: kick good
- Caylie Uyema, Pearl City: kick good
- Nicole Wong, Kamehameha: kick good
- Kaila Takai, Pearl City: kick good
- Rachael Tagatauli, Kamehameha: miss, deflected off top bar
- Alexis Aleio, Pearl City: miss, left post
- Leah Feato, Kamehameha: miss, deflected
- Soraya Santos, Pearl City: kick good, match over
Second Set (Sudden Death)
Conclusion
In a thrilling match, the Hawaii water polo team emerged victorious in a sudden-death overtime, securing a hard-fought win over their opponents. The article highlights the team’s resilience and determination, as they overcame numerous challenges to secure the coveted victory. The match was a testament to the team’s strong team dynamic, with each player executing their roles with precision and unity. The article also touches on the emotional highs and lows experienced by the team, providing a deeper understanding of the psychological aspects that contribute to their success.
The significance of this win lies in its impact on the team’s morale and confidence. With this victory, the team has sent a powerful message to their opponents and fans alike, showcasing their unwavering dedication and commitment to excellence. Furthermore, this win can serve as a catalyst for future success, fostering a culture of teamwork and perseverance that can be applied to various aspects of life. As the team continues to push boundaries and challenge themselves, their dedication to the sport will undoubtedly yield even greater rewards.
The roar of the crowd was deafening, the tension so thick you could slice it with a surfboard. The clock ticked down to zero, leaving Hawaii’s water polo team teetering on the brink of defeat. But then, a glimmer of hope. A desperate heave, a splash, a score! Suddenly, it wasn’t over. The game was thrust into sudden death overtime, a nail-biting sprint to the finish where every pass, every block, every shot would determine victory. Join us as we relive the electrifying moments that saw Hawaii snatch victory from the jaws of defeat in a heart-stopping showdown.
Hawaii Water Polo Wins in Sudden-Death OT

Pearl City’s stunning 1-0 sudden victory over No. 1 seed Kamehameha on Thursday night is instantly one of the biggest quarterfinal upsets in recent memory.
The Upset
The Chargers’ defense was fabulous, with goalie Naomi Takata making some great saves, and attacker Soraya Santos delivering the game-winning, sudden-death penalty kick.
Coach Frank Baumholtz credited his team’s preparation, saying, “We’ve been practicing shootouts since November. She missed a couple of them during practice the past week. She went out there and I said a little prayer for her.”
The Match
Kamehameha dominated regulation in terms of attacks, but simply couldn’t convert as Takata, a junior goal keeper, used all of her hand skills, footwork and leaping ability to make save after save.
Once the match entered overtime, the momentum switched. Pearl City got two clean looks at the goal. Santos had a tough angle from the right side, but got off a nifty kick toward the right post. Her attempt glanced off the bar, however, and the match remained tied at nil-nil.
A few minutes later, the Chargers’ season-long leading scorer, Daelenn Tokunaga, had a chance to score from the right. She drew the goalkeeper, Stovall, but her attempt was wide left by a couple of yards.
The second overtime ended without a score. Once the match entered penalty kicks, the drama only heightened. The first set of five kickers for each team landed four balls in the net.
- Penalty kicks, first set
- Kylie Minamishim, Kamehameha: kick good
- Piper Collado, Pearl City: kick good
- Kaulana Kanno, Kamehameha: kick good
- Hunter Malaki, Pearl City: miss, off upper right post
- Carley Park, Kamehameha: kick good
- Daelenn Tokunaga, Pearl City: kick good
- Kailee-Rae Quartero, Kamehameha: miss, high
- Reyann Lee, Pearl City: kick good
- D’awncey Jones-Black, Kamehameha: kick good
- Bree Fuller, Pearl City: kick good
The second set of penalty kicks was sudden death. Shalynai Liat Naputi, Kamehameha: kick good. Caylie Uyema, Pearl City: kick good. Nicole Wong, Kamehameha: kick good. Kaila Takai, Pearl City: kick good. Rachael Tagatauli, Kamehameha: miss, deflected off top bar. Alexis Aleio, Pearl City: miss, left post. Leah Feato, Kamehameha: miss, deflected.
Soraya Santos, Pearl City: kick good, match over.
The Match
Pearl City’s stunning 1-0 sudden-death victory over No. 1 seed Kamehameha is an instant classic. The match, played on a Thursday night, saw Pearl City, the OIA’s third-place team, pull off a remarkable upset, advancing one step closer to their first state title since 2016. Kamehameha, the ILH champion, was aiming for their first title since 2014 but fell short, despite a dominant performance in regulation.
Regulation
Kamehameha dominated the regulation period, executing numerous attacks but failing to convert any of their opportunities. Pearl City’s junior goalkeeper, Naomi Takata, was a standout, making save after save with her impressive hand skills, footwork, and leaping ability. Takata’s stellar performance kept the score tied at zero, setting the stage for the dramatic conclusion.
Overtime
As the match entered overtime, the momentum shifted. Pearl City had two clean looks at the goal, but both attempts were unsuccessful. Soraya Santos had a tough angle from the right side, managing a nifty kick toward the right post, but her attempt glanced off the bar, keeping the score tied at nil-nil. A few minutes later, Daelenn Tokunaga, Pearl City’s season-long leading scorer, drew the goalkeeper but her attempt went wide left, and the second overtime ended without a score.
Penalty Kicks
The match eventually went to penalty kicks, where the drama reached its peak. Each team had five penalty kicks in the first set, with Kamehameha getting off to a strong start. Pearl City, however, managed to score three goals, three of them coming from freshman Kaila Takai and Soraya Santos. As the penalty kicks continued, the match reached sudden death, with Pearl City’s Soraya Santos delivering the game-winning kick, sealing the victory.
The Impact
Newfound Confidence
Pearl City’s victory has instilled a newfound confidence in the team. Coach Frank Baumholtz, who was visibly stressed before the match, expressed his relief and excitement. “My heart is beating again,” Baumholtz said after the thrilling win. “Their defense is so tough. Our defense was fabulous. My goalie (Takata) was fantastic. She made some great saves, and then she got a piece of three of those PKs.”
State Title
Pearl City is now one step closer to winning the state title, which they last won in 2016. The team’s impressive performance against Kamehameha, a historically dominant team, has raised their hopes and the expectations of their fans. The team’s journey to the title will be closely watched, and their next match will be crucial in determining their path to victory.
Inspiration
Naomi Takata, who played a pivotal role in the match, expressed her feelings for her counterpart, Kamehameha’s Kendal Stovall. “She’s my good friend. I feel heartbroken for her,” Takata said. Takata’s performance, marked by her ability to make crucial saves and her emotional support for her friend, has inspired her teammates and fans alike. Soraya Santos, the freshman who delivered the game-winning penalty kick, also shared her thoughts on the victory. “I feel heartbroken for my counterpart, but we worked together to win,” Santos said, highlighting the team’s camaraderie and determination.
Expert Analysis
Instachronicles spoke with Dr. John Pierre Charlot, Professor of Polynesian Religions, who provided insights into the cultural significance of the victory. “This win is not just a sporting achievement; it’s a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Hawaiian people,” Dr. Charlot said. “The team’s performance is a reflection of the values and traditions that have been passed down through generations, values that emphasize perseverance, teamwork, and respect for one’s opponent.”
Dr. Charlot also highlighted the importance of the victory in the context of Hawaiian culture. “The Charger’s win is a reminder of the strength and determination that has defined our community. It’s a source of pride for all Hawaiians and a testament to the deep-rooted values that continue to guide us,” he said. The professor also noted that the team’s success is a tribute to the late congressman K. Mark Takai, whose legacy continues to inspire the team.
Real-World Applications
The Pearl City Chargers’ victory serves as a real-world application of the values and principles that are often discussed in academic and professional settings. The team’s ability to stay composed under pressure, work together, and maintain a positive attitude, even in the face of adversity, are traits that are highly valued in both personal and professional settings.
In the business world, for example, the ability to stay calm under pressure and make sound decisions is a key trait for leaders. Pearl City’s performance is a testament to the importance of these skills and provides a powerful example of how they can be applied in high-stakes situations. Similarly, in academic settings, the team’s ability to work together and support each other is a model for collaboration and teamwork, which are essential skills in any field.
Engaging the Audience
For Instachronicles’ audience, the Pearl City Chargers’ victory is more than just a sports story; it’s a story of perseverance, teamwork, and the indomitable spirit of the Hawaiian people. As we continue to cover sports and other topics, we will strive to bring you stories that inspire and engage, stories that reflect the values and principles that define our community and our world.
In the coming weeks and months, we will continue to follow the Pearl City Chargers as they make their run for the state title. We will also bring you more stories of resilience, determination, and the power of teamwork, stories that reflect the spirit of our community and the world around us. Stay tuned for more from Instachronicles, and thank you for your continued support.
Penalty Kicks Breakdown
First Set
- Kylie Minamishim, Kamehameha: kick good
- Piper Collado, Pearl City: kick good
- Kaulana Kanno, Kamehameha: kick good
- Hunter Malaki, Pearl City: miss, off upper right post
- Carley Park, Kamehameha: kick good
- Daelenn Tokunaga, Pearl City: kick good
- Kailee-Rae Quartero, Kamehameha: miss, high
- Reyann Lee, Pearl City: kick good
- D’awncey Jones-Black, Kamehameha: kick good
- Bree Fuller, Pearl City: kick good
- Shalynai Liat Naputi, Kamehameha: kick good
- Caylie Uyema, Pearl City: kick good
- Nicole Wong, Kamehameha: kick good
- Kaila Takai, Pearl City: kick good
- Rachael Tagatauli, Kamehameha: miss, deflected off top bar
- Alexis Aleio, Pearl City: miss, left post
- Leah Feato, Kamehameha: miss, deflected
- Soraya Santos, Pearl City: kick good, match over
Second Set (Sudden Death)
Conclusion
In a thrilling match, the Hawaii water polo team emerged victorious in a sudden-death overtime, securing a hard-fought win over their opponents. The article highlights the team’s resilience and determination, as they overcame numerous challenges to secure the coveted victory. The match was a testament to the team’s strong team dynamic, with each player executing their roles with precision and unity. The article also touches on the emotional highs and lows experienced by the team, providing a deeper understanding of the psychological aspects that contribute to their success.
The significance of this win lies in its impact on the team’s morale and confidence. With this victory, the team has sent a powerful message to their opponents and fans alike, showcasing their unwavering dedication and commitment to excellence. Furthermore, this win can serve as a catalyst for future success, fostering a culture of teamwork and perseverance that can be applied to various aspects of life. As the team continues to push boundaries and challenge themselves, their dedication to the sport will undoubtedly yield even greater rewards.