Athletes work out at Kakaako Waterfront Park on an early Saturday morning. Coach Gery Graham and staff lead the mix of youth from different schools — and sports — on a rigorous 75-minute grind on the ewa-side hill of the park.
Liahona Youth Empowerment alternates sites each Saturday, utilizing the beach at Ala Moana Beach Park and hills of Kakaako Waterfront Park. The Kaakako hill begins with a 10-degree incline, but after 20 yards, it becomes a 45-degree climb.
"It's exciting to see the kids come out and train. At least it gives them a platform to train on with everything going on, the closures," Graham said.
Some of the athletes included football players from Saint Louis. Among them was senior defensive lineman Anthony Sagapolutele, who is 6-foot-2 and 260 pounds.
"He's in shape. He is moving just as good as the DBs and receivers. In fact, even better," Graham said. "He should be getting some offers."
The turnout of 50 or so athletes and the weather — 75 degrees at 7 a.m. with no rain — was perfect.
"The effort, the weather, I love everything. The kids are so excited to get back to some kind of activity. I just hope the state opens up and gives these kids an opportunity to play the sport that they're in," Graham added. "I'm for whatever works. Get the protocols in place and give these kids a chance. A lot of times, this is the only avenue kids in Hawaii have to get to the next level on the mainland. We need to give much support as we can."
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