Posted on: Tuesday, August 20, 2002

EDITORIAL
Waipi'o little leaguers: champions all the way

Despite yesterday's thrilling 2-1 win over Webb City, Mo., a complicated elimination system removed Hawai'i's Waipi'o Little League team from the Little League World Series for 11- and 12-year-olds yesterday.

But they will return to the Islands champs in our minds and in the history books. This was the first Hawai'i 11- and 12-year-old team to make it to the Williamsport classic since 1988.

Waipi'o's magnificent run ended yesterday when they were eliminated by a formula that includes runs scored, defense and other factors.

They will come home with heads high and with the knowledge that their skills on the field and aloha spirit both on and off made an indelible mark.

So hats off to the sluggers from Waipi'o and a special nod to Sanoe Aina, only the ninth girl ever to reach the Little League World Series.