King Kekaulike junior Hilina‘i Kuala‘au-Abbey hits the ball while batting in the Hawaii High School Athletic Association’s Division I Softball State Championships at Rainbow Wahine Stadium at UH Mānoa campus.

The King Kekaulike softball team made history in the 2025 season, earning their first-ever berth in the Hawaii High School Athletic Association’s Division I State Championships.

It was a season defined by growth, elevated goals and a drive to push new boundaries — as King Kekaulike softball continues to build, travel and compete in Division I.

From Upcountry Maui to Mānoa Valley, the Nā Ali’i embraced the opportunity to take the field May 6-9 at the University of Hawai’i — playing in the same stadium as the Rainbow Wahine. For a team from a small-town community, stepping onto the state’s biggest stage brought a mix of excitement and nerves. It was an eye-opening experience for these young athletes and a special opportunity with the UH athletic department opening its facilities to high school players from across the islands.

Playing in a college stadium served as a powerful source of inspiration for the girls, highlighting their aspirations to compete at the next level. Helping each athlete prepare for that next step is a core focus for coach Kylie Asher, who is dedicated to instilling the mindset and skills needed to pursue their dreams beyond high school.

“I say pressure is a privilege — it means you are playing for something bigger,” Asher said. “We have two seniors who are playing college ball next year. Maile Garcia will be playing at the University of Puget Sound, and Hulali Williams will be playing at Lewis and Clark College. Most of if not all of our juniors and sophomores are hoping to play collegiate as well.”

The King Kekaulike softball team finished runner-up in the MIL this season and qualified for state. Courtesy photo

Earning their way to the state tournament took more than just hard work; it required dedication, focus and a commitment to keeping things simple at the plate.

Coach Asher reflected on how playing at Rainbow Wahine Stadium for the first time was an adjustment, but emphasized the importance of taking each game as it came. By trusting their preparation and staying connected to the love of the game, the team was able to play with confidence and composure.

“A lot of the time players will put pressure on themselves to get a big hit, but what we worked on this year is getting base hits and to keep the inning going or ‘pass the bat,'” Asher said. “When we keep things simple and don’t overdo it, those big hits eventually come.”

With a shared sense of purpose both on and off the field, this Nā Ali’i team has embraced the power of connection, communication, and support. They know that softball is a team sport — and reaching individual or collective goals isn’t possible without cohesion.

This season marked a major milestone: King Kekaulike’s first appearance at the state tournament since 2006 — and their first ever at the Division I level.

Stepping beyond the familiarity of playing only Maui teams, the experience was new and unfamiliar, but King K took that leap — and rose to the occasion.

Along the way, King Kekaulike built more than wins. From the coaching staff to the athletes themselves, Nā Aliʻi softball is creating a strong, united team that’s helping shape the future of the sport for young female athletes on Maui.