Send Hilo Braddahs to the Big Stage

My name is Christine, and I am reaching out with great excitement and pride. Our Hilo Cal Ripken 14U team, the “Hilo Braddahs,” have won the Pacific Southwest Regional Championship in California on July 26th and is set to represent Hawaii at the 2025 Babe Ruth World Series in Hot Springs, Arkansas, August 7-17. This is a significant achievement for our young Hilo athletes as it is the 1st time ever 14U is representing Hawaii, from little ol' Hilo Town! We are incredibly proud of their hard work and dedication and are excited for their opportunity to play against teams from Nigeria, Mexico, New Zealand and the Philippines.

As you can imagine, the opportunity to compete at the World Series level comes with a number of expenses, primarily for travel, registration, lodging, uniforms, and meals. We had 2 days after winning our Regionals on July 26th to secure our registration/flights/hotels and our costs are now estimated at $3300 per player and coach, with 16 total participants. We are reaching out to ask for support from our community. We would be incredibly grateful if you would consider making a donation. Any contribution, no matter the size, will go directly toward ensuring that our athletes can make the trip and compete at the highest level. We are also open to in-kind donations, sponsorships, and community partnerships. Your support would not only help these young athletes achieve their dreams but also provide them with a valuable experience that will shape their future both on and off the field.

Mahalo for believing in our Big Island natives and standing alongside us in this incredible journey to the World Series.

Team picture Left to Right

Head Coach Ikaika Naipo, Coach Mathew Roddy, Tadyne Agudo, “Bat Boy” Kahiau Naipo, Liam Roddy, Knox Marzo, Chase Guillermo, Kaimana Caoagdan, Kolby Leong-Takahashi, Hekili Naipo, Kaheno Kuamoo, Matyx Camero, Richard Wells Jr, Asher Igawa-Silva, Coach Greg Leong, Coach Lee Guillermo, Coach Shannon Camero, bottom row Janson Keanu