Senior Tanigawa Optimistic About Knights’ Soccer Season

With her eligibility clock ticking, Castle’s Alyssa Tanigawa is determined to close out her soccer career with the Knights in the right way.

“I didn’t realize how fast the seasons would fly by or even how fast high school would (pass),” said Tanigawa, who is a four-year varsity player for the Knights. “I’m pretty confident we can go far this season — especially since it is my last year.”

Hopes are high once again for Tanigawa and the Knights in part because of the momentum they gained a year ago when Castle went 8-2 in the Oahu Interscholastic Association Eastern Conference’s regular season. The Knights, who finished 10-5-1 overall, also qualified for the Outrigger Hotels and Resorts Hawaii Division I State Championships. For her part, Tanigawa was a steadying force as a defender for the Knights throughout the 2013-14 campaign. As she looks ahead to her senior season, Tanigawa recently took some time away from the practice field and her studies to visit with MidWeek‘s Windward Oahu Islander.

What is your earliest sports-related memory?

Probably when I was 9 and I tried soccer for the first time. The ball hit me in the face and I cried. My dad (Lance) was convinced that I wouldn’t continue to play soccer, but I have continued.

Who’s had the biggest impact on you in your life?

Probably my dad because he’s always pushed me to be the best I can be.

What area of your game did you focus on during the off-season?

I focused on marking my (opposing) player, my touches and my passing.

What’s the most important thing you’ve learned through athletics?

I think learning to work with others and becoming a supportive teammate.

What Internet site do you frequent the most?

I’d have to say Twitter.

What is your least favorite household chore?

Washing dishes.

If you were planning a trip, what would be your destination of choice?

Florida, because I want to go to Disney World.

What movie could you watch over and over?

She’s A Man — I think I’ve watched it like 20 times.

Who are three of your favorite musical artists?

Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran and Kina Grannis.

When you have free time, how do you like to spend it?

Hanging out with friends and going to the beach.

You’re stuck on the island of Kaho‘olawe. You can have an endless supply of one food. What would it be?

Pizza.

If you could have your pick, what celebrity would you most like to meet?

I think I’d like to meet (actor) Channing Tatum.

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