Spring finalists for Newcomer Award announced


Finalists for the Pizza Hut Newcomer Award for the spring sports season have been announced.

The nominees are (in alphabetical order):

Zackary Kaneshiro, Mid-Pacific (Golf) - Owls' freshman placed 5th in the HHSAA tournament and was an ILH First Team selection.

Jocelyn Alo, Kahuku (Softball) - Red Raiders' catcher was named Co-Player of the Year in the OIA Red East as freshman.

Joey Cantillo, Kailua (Baseball) - Surfriders' pitcher compiled a 3-1 record as freshman, helping Kailua to reach the Division I semifinals.

Chastyne Dolor, Pearl City (Judo) - Chargers' freshman won the state title in the 109 pound weight division.

Taylor Lau, Saint Francis (Tennis) - Saints' freshman upset three-time defending state champion Alyssa Tobita to win the HHSAA Girls Tennis singles title and was also an ILH First Team selection.

Isaac Liva, Hawaii Baptist (Boys Volleyball) - Eagles' sophomore was named to the ILH Division II First Team.

Kaitlin Smith, Baldwin (Track) - Bears' freshman won the state title in the long jump and placed 8th in the finals of the 100 meter hurdles.

The Pizza Hut Newcomer is awarded for superior performance to a student-athlete participating in their first year of play in varsity athletics.

Freshman, as well as any players who have not yet played in a league contest or state tournament are eligible.

Finalists are selected and announced at the end of each sport season (Fall, Winter and Spring), with the winner announced during the ScoringLive Distinguished Athlete ceremony on June 8.