Reclaiming the BIIF water polo champion is now the least of Kamehameha’s accomplishments.
The Warriors propelled themselves into the HHSAA semifinals for the first time in seven years Thursday with a 9-5 victory against Roosevelt at Kamehameha-Kapalama’s pool on Oahu.
“I think the girls were hungry after missing out on states last season,” coach Dan Lyons said.
Dominating in the 2-meter position, senior Lahela Rosario carried an especially big appetite, scoring six goals as the BIIF champion Warriors (15-0) were in charge from the start, leading 3-0 after the first quarter, 6-2 at halftime and 8-4 after three.
“I just think we played smart and in control,” Lyons said.
Aubrey Michelle Carter added two goals and Kukui Haumea also scored against the OIA No. 3 Rough Riders (14-4), an opponent Kamehameha is used to playing in the consolation round at states.
Instead, the Warriors remain in the championship bracket for the first time since 2011 and get to play under the lights at 7 p.m. Friday against ILH behemoth Punahou, the 10-time state champion.
“To me, you always want to play the best,” Lyons said. “Yeah, we’d rather play them in the final, but we get the in the semifinal.”
Before winning their eighth BIIF championship in nine seasons, the Warriors got a chance to take on Punahou in the preseason.
“No question,” that helped us against Roosevelt, Lyons said.