PONO: A Hawaiian word, meaning righteous in character. It’s a simple message, but is the best lesson a child can be taught early on in their life.

Our PONO team has been invited to partake in a once in a lifetime opportunity. PONO baseball will be competing in the Osaka Baseball Tournament in Japan, spring 2024. While teaching baseball is important, creating memories and exposing young athletes to diverse cultures through the universal game of baseball is the greatest gift sports can provide.

This trip will be very costly. Our families are working hard to help offset the fees for this tournament and any support would be appreciated, financially or prayers for a safe trip. Along with this trip, the costs for practice facilities, uniforms, equipment, and tournament fees add up. 100% of proceeds raised will be going directly to the PONO baseball team.

Mahalo,
PONO Boys

Meet Our Coaches

RJ Smith

I love coaching these young individuals as I am fully dedicated to seeing them become successful young adults. While baseball is exciting, I am most passionate about teaching them good values and encouraging them to enjoy every step of their learning journey. Every day, I feel lucky to be a part of this amazing program.

Kurt Suzuki

After playing for 18 years professionally, I know the type of coach I want my children to learn from. A coach that will be the best role model for ALL aspects of life, not just on the sports field. Renee and I believe this is a delicate time in our children’s adolescent development, which will mold them into the adults they become. We are focused on establishing an environment that fosters positivity, encouragement and healthy growth! This is the reason why I coach.

Kyle Banfield

Having grown up playing baseball, I have a pure love for the game. Being able to share my knowledge and experience with the youth of my community is something that I take a lot of pride in. It’s exciting to watch the kids that I coach excel, overcome hurdles and master the techniques that I’m teaching them. The bond I’m creating with my sons through the time on the field is something I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.

PONO VALUES

SPORTSMANSHIP

FELLOWSHIP

RESPECT

LEADERSHIP

PERSISTENCE

“He has turned our PONO team into a real family. We have never felt this much support and positive motivation before meeting Kurt Suzuki.”

“Youth sports has lost its vision of “Do What is Right”. Kurt Suzuki has brought it back”.

English