Hawai‘i’s youth baseball community took center stage this past weekend as some of the state’s top homegrown standouts returned to the diamond to give back at the 2nd annual Barefoot League and Raising Cane’s Keiki Baseball and Softball Clinic at Sand Island Park.
The free event, open to children ages 6 to 13, emphasized fundamentals, mentorship and sportsmanship, giving young ballplayers the chance to train alongside some of the islands’ most accomplished talent.
Cleveland Guardians pitcher and Kailua High graduate Joey Cantillo headlined the clinic, offering advice shaped by his journey to Major League Baseball.
“For me, it’s simple, just work really hard at what you’re doing and believe in yourself,” Cantillo said. “If you think you can do it, you’re right. If you think you can’t do it, you’re right. Have conviction in what you’re doing, work hard, and you’ll be good.”
Joining him were Saint Louis School alumnus and Miami Marlins first-round draft pick Aiva Arquette, along with Waiākea High graduate and Minnesota Twins Double-A outfielder Kala‘i Rosario.
“Continue working hard to chase that dream and chase that goal you have, and just enjoy the process,” Arquette said. “It’s a great reminder to come back home, give back to the community, and enjoy the time here. It’s really special.”
Rosario echoed the sentiment, underscoring the importance of joy in the game.
“Being out here helping the kids is huge,” Rosario said. “We all play at the next level, and all these kids have dreams of that. When you play the game like these kids, that’s when you make it far.”
The clinic is part of a broader initiative by Barefoot League and Raising Cane’s to provide no-cost youth sports programming throughout Hawai‘i. Beyond baseball and softball, the groups have hosted free clinics in football and soccer, expanding opportunities for local keiki to train, compete and connect with island role models.