ILH: Punahou's Weisskopf quiet, yet effective

By Wes Nakama
Advertiser Staff Writer

Punahou's Sarah Weisskopf pitched 20 innings against Kamehameha. Advertiser library photo

Silent ... yet splendid.

Smooth and steady ... though still super.

It was tough getting a handle on Punahou junior Sarah Weisskopf, especially for ILH hitters and pitchers this season.

The unassuming Weisskopf made big waves at the coaches' all-star vote meeting, taking Player of the Year honors against strong competition.

In the regular season, Weisskopf went 8-3 with a 0.96 ERA, striking out 55 in 80 innings. She also batted .450 with five doubles and five RBIs. But statistics alone do not do Weisskopf justice.

"She's a team leader, but she's very humble, a very quiet player," Punahou coach Raynor Minami said. "Even in situations where we made crucial errors, she never showed discontent or disappointment. I think that got her support from the rest of the team — they all wanted to do well for her."

In one of the most amazing performances in Hawai'i high school softball, Weisskopf pitched 20 innings against Kamehameha before the Buffanblu lost on a leadoff home run in the bottom of the 21st.

She is joined on the ILH all-star first team by teammates Gail Matsushima (third base), Erica Miyabara (outfield) and Kaha Weir (catcher).

League champion Kamehameha led the way with six first-team selections: second baseman Liane Horiuchi, shortstop Sharee Fonoti, outfielders Emi Snow and Kaui Tom, pitcher Brandi Peiler and utility player Kate Robinson.

Iolani first baseman Tara Yanagihashi, Hawai'i Baptist/St. Andrew's/St. Francis pitcher Carolyn Fisher and University High designated player Mandy Yoshizu round out the first team.

Minami shared Coach of the Year honors with Kamehameha's Ty Sing Chow.