For freshman Kaua Marinas volleyball is more than a sport its a family affair.

“My dad wanted me to play sports so I decided to play volleyball,” Marinas said.

Her cousin Jahndy plays college volleyball at Central Wyoming College and Aunt Briana played for both Hawaii Pacific University and the University of Minnesota Duluth. Everyone from her grand-mother to her cousins plays volleyball.

“ Volleyball is a way of bringing my family together because they can enjoy playing with one another, and also competing against each other,” Marinas said.

Marinas is the starting outside hitter for the Waianae High School Junior Varsity volleyball team and also plays for the Laulea Volleyball Club. What inspired her to play volleyball was watching her family play when she was little.

“It would be kind of weird playing a different sport because my family plays volleyball, but they would still be happy for me,” Marinas said.

Her family always encourages her to do her best and just have fun while playing. She feeds off of their energy and their love of the game. Marinas said,

“volleyball to me just means to have fun and play, and just do what you got to do talk things out with my teammates and listen to my coaches,” Kaua said.

Her family’s experience, love and advice keep her pushing for more in the sport.

"I'm on her about everything. Determination, motivation you know all the things that it takes to become a very good volleyball player," Aunt and coach Briana Uiti said.

She is only on the JV team this year but has a goal to make the varsity volleyball team next year.

Kaua also has the drive to play college volleyball but it is undecided were she wants to continue her journey after high school. With hard work and the support of her family to guide her Kaua may be well on her way.