Athletes of the Week: Hilo Mustang 9 All-Stars

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Hilo Mustang 9s

Hilo Mustang 9s

Sport: baseball

The Hilo Mustang 9s were so proficient and well-balanced in winning the state PONY League tournament on Kauai, that it was hard to reward just one player. So for the first time, Athletes of the Week are honored in this space.

Khaelan Nakapaahu, Jaiden-Lee Gabriel, Jaziah Oili, Linken Kuikahi-Batalona, Braden Gomes, Ivor Brooks, Landyr Ishii, Clemson Julian, Quinn Waiki, Jason Mandaquit Jr., Brayden Malani and Tait Labra teamed up for what was the only state title won by Hilo PONY baseball this season.

The “5 questions” is a team effort as well. Coach Shon Malani took a vote and let the majority rule.

5 questions

Favorite song: “Going Back to Cali,” by Biggie Smalls

Favorite food: Steak

Favorite sports role model: Mike Trout and LeBron James.

What makes you happy: Playing baseball, of course.

Favorite cartoon character: SpongeBob SquarePants

Nominate an athlete at sports@hawaiitribune-herald.com