Contributions, no matter how small, are considered big for the Hawaii volleyball team. Each Rainbow Wahine, whether on the court or on the sideline, knows that she is playing an important role, one that only she can play.
As Hawaii concluded its three-day stint of practice sessions in the Stan Sheriff Center on Friday, there was the sense that the it’s-for-real journey had begun … with miles — many miles – to go before the Wahine are done.
“Obviously we have a lot to work on, but I like the team feel already,” assistant coach Angelica Ljungqvist said. “The new players coming in are a good fit. It’s not always a given that happens.
“Our senior transfers are here because we hope they’re going to help us. They are already part of that team feel. We’re going to need that to be one of our strengths.”
Hawaii rarely has invested in one-and-done seniors, but there are three on the roster this season. Left-handed opposite Angel Gaskin transferred from Maryland, Kamehameha graduate Tita Akiu returned home after three seasons at Texas Tech and Mililani graduate Sarah Liva’s circuitous route to Manoa was via Portland State volleyball (two seasons), then Hawaii Pacific basketball (one).
“I always wanted to be a Wahine,” said Liva, who last played collegiate volleyball in 2015. “I remember coming here and watching all the games.
“Things happen for a reason and they work out the way they do. I’m happy I’m back home and playing for Hawaii.”
The 6-foot-1 middle blocker becomes part of the second brother-sister duo to play volleyball at Hawaii, joining Mary, Duke and Sean Robins. Isaac Liva played for the Warriors last season.
Sarah Liva said it has been a transition going from basketball to volleyball shape.
“With basketball, it’s a lot of running, running, running,” she said. “This is more jumping and getting the volleyball IQ up again. But it’s like riding a bike.
“The intensity level here is much higher, the expectations are turned up. It’s such a blessing. I thought I was done and Coach Robyn (Wahine head coach Ah Mow-Santos) gave me another chance to play the game I love.
“The whole thing about this being my last season is in the back of my mind. Coach Robyn reminds us it will be gone in the blink of an eye. I want to contribute, and once I get my volleyball IQ back up, I think I can be one of the leaders.”
“We weren’t sure she had eligibility left, but she did, walked on in spring and made the team,” said Ljungqvist, a four-time All-America middle for Hawaii. “She’s strong and we’re hoping she’ll contribute.”
The Wahine headed out this morning to the west side for off-campus training and community service. They return to two-a-days on campus Monday.
