Hawai'i booster club plans to change name

By Stephen Tsai and Ferd Lewis
Advertiser Staff Writers

After nearly 40 years, the University of Hawai'i has decided to change the name of its primary booster organization, 'Ahahui Koa Anuenue, and is strongly recommending the name, "H Club."

Vince Baldemor, the club's executive director, told The Advertiser a special committee was created to explore the possibility of changing the organization's name, which roughly translates to "Society of the Rainbow Warrior."

"It's still in the preliminary stage," Baldemor said. "As far as the timetable, it has to go through the proper channels."

But The Advertiser obtained a copy of an internal UH memo announcing: "'Ahahui Koa Anuenue is changing its name!" The memo, originating from the club's office, was sent to each member of the athletic department.

"In keeping within NCAA regulations regarding booster clubs and accreditation, many changes are currently under way that will restructure how athletics' fundraising is being handled at the University of Hawai'i, Manoa," the memo said. "'Ahahui Koa Anuenue is tasked with these new responsibilities and looking at a new name to match its new role."

The memo noted that the committee recommended "H Club" — using UH's "H" logo — at the board meeting Jan. 20.

UH athletic director Herman Frazier sought input from athletic department staff and coaches on other possible names. According to the memo, "the final decision will be made by AKA and Herman Frazier."

'Ahahui Koa Anuenue has been the name for the umbrella booster organization since it was formed in 1967 at the urging of then-Gov. John A. Burns, who envisioned it as a fund-raising arm for an upgraded athletic department.

In that time, the group has contributed nearly $15 million to the athletic department, most of it toward scholarships for athletes. Last year it contributed $1.8 million, officials said.

Burns' son, James Burns, chief judge of the Intermediate Court of Appeals, headed the group for more than two decades until 2003 when Bert T. Kobayashi Jr. succeeded him.

"I like the name 'Society of the Rainbow Warrior' (and) I would encourage its continuation," Burns said. "But it is a new board of directors with new thoughts. If they want a new name for their efforts, that's up to them."

UH officials and 60 athletic stakeholders announced plans for a reorganization of Koa Anuenue in early 2002.

The bulk of Koa Anuenue money comes through mandatory donations attached to the purchase of seats in prime locations for various sports, including football and basketball.

Reach Stephen Tsai at stsai@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8051; Ferd Lewis at flewis@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8044.