Hanalei
Basketball
Courts
The Hanalei Initiative is proud to have revitalized the community basketball courts at Waioli Town Park, turning them into a vibrant space where residents can connect, play, and stay active. This project not only enhances recreational opportunities but also strengthens the bonds that make our community so special. Through collaboration with local partners and the generous support of our community, we’ve transformed this court into a hub of health, happiness, and togetherness for everyone to enjoy.
Why did we get involved in this project?
Communities that prioritize sports and recreation tend to be healthier, happier, and safer. Strong social bonds are forged on the court, fostering a sense of unity. Having clean, well-maintained spaces for physical activity encourages people to come together, play, and enjoy each other's company in a safe and fun environment. The Hanalei Initiative is dedicated to building stronger, healthier, and more connected communities, and the restored basketball court is a prime example of that mission.
On Saturday, April 21, 2021, The Hanalei Initiative broke ground on the restoration of the basketball court at Waioli Town Park. This wasn’t just a simple renovation; it was a meaningful step toward enhancing the well-being of our community.
How it Started
The idea for the project began on November 21, 2020. Joel Guy, Executive Director of HI, recalls: “The restoration of the court started one day when I was driving to work, and the county was removing the old backboards. Within an hour, my phone was blowing up with calls from lifeguards and others who loved the old hoops. That’s when we mobilized and started planning.”
We kicked off the project with a community fundraiser aimed at replacing the rusted, deteriorating basketball hoops. “We held a half-court shot contest and were overwhelmed by the support from so many young men and women who frequently play pickup games on the court," said Joel.
Luca Aza was the winner of our half-court shot contest and won this surfboard!
Early 2021 saw the installation of brand-new hoops that met County standards, laying the groundwork for the court’s transformation.
From there, the old asphalt surface was replaced with a much stronger concrete one, ensuring durability for years to come.
Before
After
By February 2022, the project was complete. Today, the revitalized basketball court is a hub of activity, with kids playing basketball, riding bikes, and even skating on the smooth new surface. The benefits are clear for everyone to see, and the court has quickly become a beloved feature of Waioli Town Park.
Chad Mizushima of Hanalei likes to play pickleball with his uncle from time to time.
“I’ve lived here for 20 years and had to coordinate playing up in Kilauea or Princeville and compete for a free court. Now all I need to do is cross the street and get set up. My Uncle and I like the exercise and it’s good fun.”
Mahalo Nui Loa
We are deeply grateful to everyone involved in making this project a success. Without the help of the County of Kauai, Waioli Corporation, and the North Shore community, this wouldn’t have been possible. A special thank you goes out to North Shore residents Amy Frazier and Billy Eckert for large donations which played a crucial role in making this project a reality. The project reflects our commitment to creating spaces where residents can thrive, reinforcing the interconnectedness that makes our island a special place to live, work, and play.
Mahalo to Our
Partners
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Waioli Corporation
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The County of Kauai
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North Shore Community