Coach Macario Pascual descibed the Lunas as “a young team limited in experience but big in heart with excellent team chemistry.”

LAHAINA – The sterling tradition of Lahainaluna High School tennis carries on into the 2020 campaign despite the daunting, worldwide challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Led by veteran coach Macario Pascual, himself a protg of Lahaina tennis mentor Shigeto “Shigesh” Wakida, the Luna program continues to flourish with a young roster.

Last year, the boys finished the regular season in first place of the West Division, and the Lady Lunas were tied for the top spot with Maui High. After a thrilling tie break playoff, the Sabers prevailed.

For the current season, Coach Mac reported that overall, both the boys and girls teams are stronger this year over last season.

“I like to refer to my teams of the last few seasons as ‘No Name’ teams, and this year’s group is no exception,” said Coach Mac, who is assisted by Edwin Pascual leading the boys team and Deborah Dorenzo and Mackenzie Cajudoy.

“But due to team chemistry, a strong work ethic and their commitment to the team will carry us very well against schools with more experience on their rosters. This year is no exception, and I am convinced that we will be there competing on the final day of the 2020 MIL Team Championships.” (If and when that takes place.)

The girls team is led by tri-captains senior Challys Pascual and juniors Kahealani Garcia and AnaPaula Rodriguez Gomez. The remainder of the roster is made up of junior Arianna Pacleb; sophomores Amy Khoang, Zirinart Lapus and Gianna Pati; and first-year players Jaiyah Imamoto, Taimane Cajudoy and Blanch Yvonne Abut.

The Luna boys are paced by co-captains James Fujii and Kekailoa Cajudoy, and freshman newcomer Christopher Mueller. The talented but young roster includes senior Alexander Rodriguez Gomez; juniors Shawn Abut and Adricx Lapus; sophomores Dylan Lopez and Dawson Doan; and freshman Henry Flores.

“Our thanks goes out to the parents, families and friends for their support and contributions to the team; team parent Marceli Abut for organizing the post-match potlucks; Athletic Director Scott Soldwisch and his dedicated staff, including Trainers Jon Conrad and Rebecca Cohen; administration staff member Ivey Huerter; West Maui Parks and Recreation; and the Lahaina Civic Center Tennis Facility,” concluded Coach Mac.