HAWAII-PACIFIC TENNIS FOUNDATION

Events & News

FOUNDATION TO HONOR KUZIO AND MUNOZ

On December 13, at Ruth's Chris Restaurant in Honolulu, the Foundation will honor Caroline Kuzio and Diego Munoz as its first Hui Kenika Keiki of the Year. Kuzio and Munoz, in spite of their young years, each embody the Foundation's core values of goal setting, hard work, self-esteem, responsiblity and teamwork.

Kuzio, while only 7 years old, has already shown a dramatic change in attitude and self-esteem since her entry into Schofield's Hui Kenika program earlier this year. As primary coach Sonny Crawford notes, "Caroline has demonstrated a dramatic change in her attitude; the word 'can't' is no longer in her vocabulary." Caroline, a second grader at Mililani Mauka Elementary, loves tennis because it helps her believe in herself, builds up her muscles and also makes her smile. Kuzio has rapidly developed from a player with little hand-eye coordination to a person who can consistently hit the ball over the net. She recently won the Halloween Scrambles Munchkin Skills Competition at Schofield Barracks.

Munoz, a 13 year old eighth grader from Wheeler Middle School, is wise beyond his years. Originally from Columbia, one would never know that English is his second language. Articulate, thoughtful and respectful, Diego's work ethic and diligence will carry him far in life. Currently his passion rests with tennis which he sees as a sport which combines both physical and mental strength. Munoz recently won his first tournament ever, winning the November Mens Doubles Compass Draw. Additionally tournament players voted Diego as the recipient of the tournament's sportsmanship award.

A few tickets remain available for the December 13 banquet at Ruth's Chris. Seating is limited for the $65 per plate dinner. For reservations, contact Foundation executive director Mark Beede by telephone at (808) 479-6727 or by email at beede@hawaiitennis.org.