They connected through the “fun” of the game but the most impactful experience the girls faced together, was the unexpected passing of Tiare’s 5-month old brother, Kalaea, to SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) in 2007. Thessa, Tiare, Zaida, and Myah’s families lived close to each other but ironically their worlds collided on the rec ball field at about 5 years old. In the Polynesian culture, the family isn’t just last names and tree branches, there is a deep sense of love and loyalty. Their interactions were playful and competitive but you had the sense that it was more meaningful, and it really is. Thessa Malau’ulu and Myah Iakopo for the Firecrackers, and Tiare Jennings and Zaida Puni for the Batbusters. It’s pretty rare to see a game like this, especially this time of year, but what’s even more unique is seeing four members of the same family, competing together on the same field. A few weeks ago I sat within the stands of a high profile fall game showcasing the Batbusters and the Firecrackers.

Picture of thessa malauulu