Pearl City’s Cade Funai’s powered a 2-run homerun in the top of the fifth inning on Sunday to force the 15-run rule and lift Pearl City over Waipio 16-0 to capture the 2023 Hawaii Little League District 7 Intermediate 50/70 Championship at Manana Park in Pearl City.
Pearl City D7 championship game starting pitcher Ryley Omine, along with Luke Furutani, and Tytan Takahashi all pitched in the championship title win.
Pearl City moves on to the state championship tournament that will be played in Kauai. This year’s state championship tournament was originally scheduled to be played on Oahu, but was moved to Kauai. The 2023 Pearl City District 7 Intermediate 50/70 Champions played on Kauai in the 2022 Hawaii Little League Majors Division State Tournament.
I spoke to Pearl City Head Coach Ty Takahashi in a post championship game interview, and he talked about preparing his players for the state championship while spreading out D7 Championship Tournament playing time. Coach Takahashi also expressed his appreciation for all the support from his teams ohana and Pearl City baseball community.
Pearl City Head Coach, Ty Takahashi
“We were trying to get all the kids their reps, so they are well prepared for states. We were trying to spread out the playing time and get all the jitters out now. The first game in the tournament we really struggled. It was 0-0 after three innings and we were able to turn it around and come out with a victory. I really believe these kids are seasoned now and more prepared than last year and we’re going to be better and come out with victories next time.
We are grateful for the support in Pearl City. Pearl City is the best community for baseball. The support is genuine. It’s not just about winning, just in general, it’s all about family, ohana and baseball here in Pearl City. Everyone is so supportive. My wife has been supporting me for all these years and encouraging me to continue to coach so that’s a blessing. You need that. Also, without my coaches this wouldn’t have happened. It’s been day in and day out and grinding, so I really appreciate all of them. It’s a big help having good coaches.”
Congratulations to both Pearl City and Waipio for making it to the championship title game!
Good Luck to Pearl City as they travel to Kauai while representing Pearl City as District 7 Champions in the State Championship Tournament!
Photos by Barry Villamil | MyPearlCity.com
