Aloha,

We are reaching out with gratitude and hope to invite your support for our son, Marley Tolbert, as he continues pursuing his basketball dreams.

At just 11 years old, Marley has already begun to carve out a special path for himself in the game. He has been featured twice on Hawaii News Now, positioned himself as the #1 5th grader in Hawaiʻi, and has also gained attention on the mainland, including a #11 ranking in Tennessee for the Class of 2033. For a young player from the Big Island, these opportunities are both humbling and exciting, and they reflect the work, discipline, and love for the game that Marley brings every day.

Over the past few years, Marley has competed across the country with T3am Tooki3 out of Knoxville, Tennessee, and has played in the highest-level youth events, including Nike Miami Balling on the Beach. Most recently, his hard work earned him an opportunity with Honolulu Swish, widely recognized as Hawaiʻi’s top AAU basketball program. This is a major step forward and opens the door to even more meaningful competition and exposure.

For young athletes from Hawaiʻi, especially from the Big Island, talent and work ethic are only part of the journey. Access is often the biggest challenge. Travel to elite events requires significant resources, and the costs of flights, lodging, meals, tournament fees, and equipment add up quickly. These are opportunities Marley has earned, but without support, they can remain out of reach.

As a high school educator, I dedicate my life to helping young people grow and succeed. I believe deeply in the power of mentorship, opportunity, and community support because I see every day how much they can change a young person’s future. Now, as a father, I am asking for that same spirit of community to help support my son’s journey.

To help Marley fully participate in his upcoming basketball opportunities, we have set a fundraising goal of $10,000. That goal will help cover both mainland travel and summer-long basketball-related expenses.

Estimated 2026-2027 Travel Cost Breakdown

Mainland airfare: $5,000

Interisland airfare and travel: $700

Lodging for tournaments and showcases: $1,700

Meals during travel: $800

Ground transportation: $600

Tournament and team-related fees: $600

Training, gear, and basketball equipment: $400

Miscellaneous travel and emergency expenses: $200

Total Goal: $10,000

Your sponsorship or donation will directly help Marley continue competing at the highest level possible and represent Hawaiʻi with pride, humility, and heart. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a real difference. More than that, your support becomes part of Marley’s story. It becomes part of helping a dedicated young athlete from the Big Island continue chasing a dream that is bigger than basketball alone. This journey is also about discipline, character, exposure, and creating opportunities that can shape his future in lasting ways.

If you feel led to support Marley, we would be deeply grateful. We also welcome you to share this letter with friends, family, businesses, churches, and community members who may want to be part of helping a young Hawaiʻi athlete rise.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for considering an investment in Marley’s future. From our ʻohana to yours, mahalo nui loa for your kindness, encouragement, and support.

With sincere aloha and gratitude,

Tolbert Ohana