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As Maui Christian Academy enters its fourth year in the Maui Interscholastic League, the Eagles have competed in surfing, air riflery, cross country and track and field.
School officials said each season has helped strengthen the athletic program by giving student-athletes opportunities to compete at a higher level while preparing for future athletic and academic pursuits.
The school has also expanded its athletic offerings through partnerships.
Through a collaboration with Haleakala Waldorf, Maui Christian Academy students also compete in canoe paddling. School officials said the partnership allows athletes from both schools to share resources and coaching while providing opportunities that might not otherwise be available.
“As a small school, partnerships like MPAC have been instrumental in helping us expand opportunities for our students while remaining competitive,” MPAC Athletic Director David Garza said. “We are grateful to the MIL and our partner schools for embracing collaboration that ultimately benefits student-athletes across Maui. It’s a great example of schools coming together to create meaningful experiences while fostering teamwork, respect, and community across campuses.”
Garza said the school emphasizes both athletic growth and spiritual development, viewing athletics as an extension of the classroom where students can develop leadership, teamwork and sportsmanship while living out their faith.
“We strive to develop young men and women who compete with integrity, humility, perseverance and respect for others,” Garza said. “We want our athletes to understand that how they treat teammates, coaches, officials, and opponents is just as important as the final score.”
Garza added that he hopes students leave Maui Christian Academy with confidence, resilience, leadership skills and lifelong friendships.
“My prayer is that the lessons they learn through athletics prepare them to become faithful leaders in their homes, churches, workplaces and communities long after their playing days are over,” Garza said.
Looking ahead, the school hopes to expand athletic opportunities for students while continuing to develop its elementary and middle school programs to prepare younger athletes for high school competition.
“Athletics is about much more than competition -- it is a ministry,” Garza said. “We believe sports provide one of the greatest opportunities to teach perseverance, servant leadership, accountability, and faith in action. Our collective prayer is that every student who wears an MCA uniform would compete with passion, honor God through their efforts, and positively impact those around them.”