Junior Helps Lead Younger Chargers
Although only a junior-to-be, it seems like Tanner Tokugawa has been playing for Pearl City much longer.
As he and the Chargers American Legion League season plays out in the coming weeks, Tokugawa finds himself in a different position as one of the veterans now on a team that suddenly seems very young. (Pearl City was just 1-4-2 heading into last weekend.)
“Playing against the older kids will get them up to speed,” said Tokugawa, the starting center fielder. And Tokugawa can speak from experience. As a freshman two years ago, he broke into the lineup on a team stocked with seasoned players and has been a mainstay now for 38 straight games.
“I was lucky enough to start. It was a good experience, and it made me much better being able to play with the other guys.”
In his first two years, the Chargers have gone 25-13 overall in addition to winning the 2011 Division I state title. He recently took some time away from the practice field to visit with Midweek West Oahu Islander.
Who’s had the biggest impact on your life? My dad (Glenn) because he stands by my side all the way. He practices with me and keeps me headed in the right direction.
What is your earliest sports-related memory? When I was 8 and we came in second place at the Pinto (level) state tournament to Millian. We’d beaten Ewan Beach in extra innings earlier to make the championship game.
What area of your game will you focus on this summer? I’m working on my strength. I’ll be going to the weight room a lot to lift. I play football, too.
Who is Pearl City’s best ‘practice player’ – the guy who gives 110 percent at all times? Jason Komodo. He’s always focused in practice and never gets off track. He’s a smart guy.
What Internet site do you frequent the most? Savoringlies.com.
What is your least favorite household chore? Cleaning my room. It gets messy every week.
What movie could you watch over and over? Never Back Down 2.
What’s the most difficult class you’ve taken at Pearl City? Spanish IHI.
Do you play video games? How do you spend your free time? I used to, but I grew out of it. I mostly like to go to the beach and hang out with my friends now.
What person in history would you like to have met? Babe Ruth.
If you could have your pick, what celebrity would you choose as your prom date? Selena Gomez.
You’re stuck on Kaho’olawe, and you can have an endless supply of just one food. What would it be? A rack of lamb.
