With a heavy heart I would like to send my condolences to the family of the late Tiffany Nakagawa who passed away on Saturday, March 2, 2013 after suffering a sudden aneurysm.
Tiffany was a sophomore at Pearl City High School at the time of her passing. She was an excellent student as well as a talented and decorated Lady Chargers soccer player and cross country runner who won awards in both sports.
I have been truly honored with the opportunity to follow Tiffany and her Lady Chargers teammates while capturing the images and moments that will serve as a snapshot of their hard work, success, and special moments.
"Tiff was someone whom every coach wanted to have on their team," said Pearl City Chargers Cross Country Head Coach Todd Nishida. "Apparently, I shared her with three other coaches. She wasn't the outspoken leader or the ultra talented athlete but she could always be counted on. Tiff understood that accountability and responsibility started with her own self and ended in achieving her goals. She knew that coming to practice was only half the battle and that using that time wisely practicing her craft not only maximized her potential but of those around her as well. Everyone respected and appreciated her for her commitment to the team objectives but more importantly she was committed to those that were a part of the team."
Tiffany will always be an inspiration to her family, friends, teammates, coaches and the Pearl City community. She was poised for a bright future while in our presence. Her spirit and bright smile will always shine down on those that made a difference in her life.
May God Bless Tiffany as she takes her place amongst the stars.
Funeral services for Tiffany Nakagawa is scheduled for Tuesday, April 9, 2013 from 6pm-9pm at Mililani Mauka Mortuary.
2012-2013 OIA Red Western Division All Star Selection
Honorable Mention – Tiffany Nakagawa
Photo by Barry Villamil | barry@mypearlcity
Tiffany pictured against Waipahu on Friday, December 28, 2012 at Waipahu High School.
Photo by Barry Villamil | barry@mypearlcity
Tiffany strikes the ball against Punahou in the first round of the HHSAA State Varsity Girls Soccer Championships played the Waipio Peninsula Soccer Complex on Wednesday, January 30, 2013.
2012 OIA Junior Varsity Girls Cross Country Championships
Tiffany Nakagawa – 2nd 1:37.52 (3 mile course)
Photo by Barry Villamil | barry@mypearlcity
Tiffany Nakagawa and teammate Kaysi Cazimero pictured at the starting line of the 2012 OIA Junior Varsity Girls Cross Country Championships held at Waialua High School on Saturday, October 14, 2012.
Photo by Barry Villamil | barry@mypearlcity
Tiffany approaches the finish line.
Photo by Barry Villamil | barry@mypearlcity
Tiffany and Kaysi pose for a photo after completing the 3 mile championship course.
Photo by Barry Villamil |barry@mypearlcity
Tiffany and Kaysi are pictured with the Chargers Junior Varsity Boys Cross Country team who had just won the 2012 OIA Junior Varsity Boys Cross Country Championship. Chargers Cross Country Head Coach Todd Nishida is pictured in the front row, far left.
2012 OIA Girls Varsity Cross Country Team & Individual Championships
Tiffany Nakagawa – 16th 21:52.95 (3 Mile Course)
Photo by Barry Villamil | barry@mypearlcity
Tiffany (center) pictured with her Pearl City Lady Chargers teammates at the 2012 OIA Girls Varsity Cross Country Team & Individual Championships held at Hawaii Pacific University's Hawaii Loa Campus on Saturday, October 20, 2012.
Photo by Barry Villamil | barry@mypearlcity
Tiffany and her teammates prepare for the start of the race.
Photo by Barry Villamil | barry@mypearlcity
Tiffany nears the finish line and will cross in 16th place with a time of 21:52.95.