The Hawaii Softball Foundation hosted the inaugural Japan 2 Hawaii Softball Clinic this past weekend at the Mauli Ola Sports Complex in Sand Island State Park.
The first-of-its-kind event in the United States featured four Japan National Team softball legends, including Olympic and World Champions, led by head coach Reika Utsugi.
The two-day camp welcomed more than 100 local players, ages 13 to 21, providing an authentic experience of world-class instruction and training from some of the sport’s greatest athletes.
Among the Japan National Team players were:
• Yukiko Ueno: Pitcher for Bic Camera Softball, starting pitcher for Team Japan, and an Olympic gold medalist in 2008 and 2020.
• Eri Yamada: Former outfielder for Denso/Hitachi Softball, centerfielder and team captain of Team Japan, and an Olympic gold medalist in 2008 and 2020.
• Haruka Agatsuma: Retired catcher for Bic Camera Softball, now a coach, former starting catcher for Team Japan, and a 2020 Olympic gold medalist.
• Kyoko Ishikawa: Current infielder for Toyota Softball, starting shortstop for Team Japan, and a gold medalist in the 2024 World Championships.
One of the local participants was Marley Espiau, a recent Kamehameha Schools graduate and current freshman outfielder at the University of Utah.
“This was a massive opportunity,” Espiau said. “Being able to see international play and a different type of softball elevates our game. Coach John and others bringing these superstars here will not only help our play but also strengthen our connection to softball worldwide.”
Jon Okada of the Hawaii Softball Foundation emphasized the significance of the event for Hawaii’s athletes.
“That’s an unbelievable opportunity for these kids to work alongside gold medalists and world champions,” Okada said. “Japan has dominated softball over the last decade, and for them to feel comfortable coming here speaks volumes. It’s a game-changer.”
Toshihiru Kuriyama, director of the Japan Diamond League, shared his excitement.
“This was a very special opportunity for our players to share softball in Hawaii and the United States,” Kuriyama said. “We are excited to grow the game of softball and build these connections.”
Organizers are already discussing plans to make the clinic an annual event.
The Hawaii Softball Foundation, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit, supports the development of softball in Hawaii through education, organization, and financial assistance. The foundation developed and maintains the six-field Mauli Ola Sports Complex, which hosts high school, college, youth, and other events throughout the year.