Skyler Maltezo-Ogata
Skyler Maltezo-Ogata
Sport: football, basketball
Hilo had many standouts in its 35-6 victory against Honokaa on Friday, including defensive back Kaleo Apao (two interceptions and two fumble recoveries), as it remained unbeaten in the BIIF.
Maltezo-Ogata wasn’t on the field, but coach Kaeo Drummondo said he was there in heart as an inspiration to his former teammates.
Maltezo-Ogata also played basketball last season for the Vikings before graduating from Lanakila Learning Center, but now he’s in a fight for his life after contracting epithelioid sarcoma, a rare soft tissue cancer.
Drummondo wrote in a recommendation earlier this year: “From Day 1, it was clear that Skyler was a talented football player; however, the more I got to know him, the more I learned that he was an even better young man.”
Maltezo-Ogata is being treated at Kuakini Medical Center on Oahu. To help with medical costs, visit www.gofundme.com/2nunbhry.
5 questions
Favorite song: “Wagon Wheel”, by Darius Rucker
Favorite food: Home-cooked chili
Favorite sports role model: Basketball player John Wall, because he always gives back to the community and is just a great person overall.
What makes you happy: My family, especially my little 3-month old niece
Favorite cartoon character: Pikachu or Ash from Pokemon