The family of Kolby Kanetake gathers regularly to watch him at practices as he develops his skills as a libero for the Moanalua boys volleyball team.

Grandparents Ray and Mary Kanetake says it is exciting to watch Kolby as he gets better and better, helping Moanalua to an undefeated 6-0 record thus far this season in Oahu Interscholastic Association matches.

“We can see that he has lots of potential in this sport,” Mary Kanetake said. “We come so we can offer our support and to enjoy an afternoon of family togetherness. This is a pleasure for our family to come him to relax and watch Kolby.”

The junior is considered to be among the leading volleyball players in the state. Kolby says he has high hopes of one day playing in college.

“My goal is to play at a major college. But I know that I must work hard in practice and continue to progress in my school work. For me school comes first because I know that in order for me to get an opportunity to play in college that I must have good grades. So I study just as hard as I do in games.”

Mary and Ray credit the coaching staff in leading Kolby in the right direction. “The coaches here at Moanalua have done a great job in motivating the players to perform at their best. We are extremely proud of the fact that they added Chasity Nobriega (former UH girls volleyball player) to the staff. She’s able to instill into the kids the value of playing competitively,” Mary Kanetake said.

Kenn Kanetake, the father of Kolby, says his son had an early craving for the sport. “We began taking him to UH games and since then he always wanted to play so we located a club team for Kolby to play in. And each year he improved. So members of our family often gather here at Moanalua gym to watch Kolby and the team. They have an excellent chance at going far into the state championships.” Kenn said.

Last season, Moanalua finished fourth in the state Division 2 tournament.