HONOLULU (KHON2) — UH sophomore middle blocker Miliana Sylvester is expected to make a huge contribution this year for Rainbow Wahine volleyball.
Being on the team is nothing short of a dream for her, but it’s a dream that almost didn’t happen. In fact, she pinches herself every day. Living a dream that’s become reality.
“It’s so cool. I just can’t believe that we’ve been working so hard, but now that I’m actually here and I get to live my dream and play in front of the fans once again, I’m so excited,” she said.
For Miliana, the road to Manoa was anything but easy. Originally from the Big Island, she grew up in foster care and was eventually adopted. The third oldest of 10 children.
“I think it is definitely fun growing up with a lot of siblings. They’re obviously difficult parts of my life that I’ve gone through.”
One of the most challenging periods was the pandemic.
Her family moved to the mainland to be closer to family, but then came the decision that changed her life.
She returned to Hawaii for her high school senior year and played for the University Lab School, right there in the shadows of the Stan Sheriff Center.
“I’m super grateful that I was able to come back for my senior year. That was a huge thing that kinda pushed me into independence and be able to take care of myself and on my own and working through that adversity, and I think it really prepared me for college.”
Now that she’s successfully made the jump across University Avenue, Miliana said she’s found more than a new team to be part of, but a new family that’s fully embraced her.
I think incredible. There’s so many people that I call my family. You know closest friends that maybe aren’t blood related but the community of support is always there for you no matter what and Hanai family whoever you choose to be your family as your family so I think that really comes along with being in Hawaii and I’m super thankful and I’m taking it to my full advantage.
Miliana Sylvester, Rainbow Wahine middle blocker
And although she knows she could possibly play for a school that could offer her thousands of dollars, to her, suiting up with an “H” on her chest is priceless.
“It means so much to me able to represent myself and my family and above that the State of Hawaii and this is a place that raised me and a place that I called my home so I think it’s super special to give back.”
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KHON2 invites everyone to support Hawaii’s student athletes as we join the university for “Hawaii’s Team Drive,” a telethon and fundraiser.
The event is coming up on Tuesday, Sept. 9, during our newscasts. Stay with us for all the details on how you can help the home team.