Tribune-Herald
Kamehameha wrestling champion Akoakoa Paleka-Kennedy has been named the Big Island Athlete of the Month for March.
Paleka-Kennedy, a senior who competed in the heavyweight division, captured his second straight state title in early March, winning the gold medal in the two-day tournament at Neal Blaisdell Center in Honolulu.
Paleka-Kennedy, the Big Island Interscholastic Federation champion, pinned three of his first four opponents in the state championships heading into the final against Molokai’s Spencer Basa. The Big Island wrestler then fought past Basa 5-2 to defend his state crown.
Paleka-Kennedy, a two-sport standout, will attend Arizona Western next year on a scholarship to play football.
Paleka-Kennedy was selected for the monthly honor over a handful of other athletes, including from the BIIF and UH-Hilo.
The Big Island athlete of the month program is sponsored by Don’s Grill, under owner Don Hoota. The athlete of the month as well as athlete and sportsperson of the year programs were founded by the late Jack Matsui.
Members of the selection committee are Hugh Clark, Ramon Goya, Stan Costales and chairman Bill O’Rear.
Nominations
Nominations for the April athlete of the month may be sent to Don’s Grill, 485 Hinano St., Hilo, HI 96720, or to Bill O’Rear, Tribune-Herald Sports, P.O. Box 767, Hilo, HI 96721; or e-mail borear@hawaiitribune-herald.com.
The deadline to submit nominations is May 1.
2012 Athletes
of the Month
• January: Jason Alani, NFL Punt, Pass & Kick national champion.
• February: State champions Konawaena (girls D-I basketball), Kamehameha (girls D-II basketball), Honokaa (boys D-II soccer) and swimming champions Anu Nihipali (Hawaii Prep) and Beth Tsuha (Hilo High).
• March: Kamehameha’s Akoakoa Paleka-Kennedy captured his second straight state heavyweight wrestling title.
