In three dramatic, unforgettable games of high school volleyball at its best, the `Iolani boys' volleyball team overcame a heavily favored Punahou team to capture the 2008 Hawaii state championship in boys volleyball.
Led by 28 kills from state tournament MVP Brad Lawson ‘08, 18 digs by All-Tournament libero Skyler Tajima ’08, and outstanding performances from many others, the Raiders used strategy, skill, and persistence to take the match 25-22, 22-25, and 25-20.
A raucous crowd at the gym of King Kekaulike HS on Maui thrilled to the exploits of both squads. There were see-saw patterns to all three games, but even though the Raiders could have collapsed at various stages, their quiet confidence carried them through and enabled them to keep coming at Punahou with no letup.
Daniel Hee ’08 and Taylor Donovan ’09 combined to block down a Punahou overdig for match point and the celebration was on as Raider players ran around the court, jumped on each other, and hugged teammates, coaches, and fans alike. Entering the match undefeated over the last four seasons, the Punahou team, gracious in defeat, congratulated the elated Raiders.
The championship was the perfect ending for the athletic school year, serving as a matching bookend for the football team’s state championship in the fall. Freshman setter Logan Nowack ’11 was also selected to the all-tournament team.
Showing poise, discipline, and mental toughness throughout the match, `Iolani earned the title against an opponent that handed nothing to the Raiders but made them earn every point. It was a classic sporting event, two strong teams at their finest, with a happy outcome for the `Iolani athletic community.
