Due to the success of basketballMAUI, we have expanded to Vertical Sports Maui (501c3 non-profit) as we continue to inspire and equip youth, now through many different sports!
To do this, we hired Josh Duinker in 2019, as our Executive Director who retired early from his professional international basketball career to follow a calling on his life to see the next generation use sports as a springboard to launch kids into new opportunities in life.
basketballMAUI will continue to grow, as it falls under Vertical Sports Maui along with the different sports. Just like basketballMAUI, the same vision, mission and values are at the core of everything we do.
Vision: To inspire and equip youth through sports
Mission: Develop the total athlete: body, mind, spirit
Values:
- World-class programs: we strive for excellence in our programs and facilities believing our youth deserve the best
- Character building: We see sports as one of the greatest teachers of teamwork, gratitude, perseverance, and tenacity.
- Christ-centered: The love of Jesus Christ compels us to serve others
- Accessible to all: All youth will be able to participate regardless of financial means.
In October we had our first baseball camp bringing to Maui major league baseball players and coaches for our youth to be coached by and learn from. We believe the most important lessons can be taught and encouraged through sports. Because of our committed volunteer committee and our community’s support and donations, Vertical Sports Maui is excited to expand to more sports as we serve Maui youth and families of the Maui county.
Our baseball camp is definitely a favorite for many kids here in Maui. Our last clinic was in Kalama Park, Kihei, October 11th and 12th which had 135 total kids in attendance. Ages 11-14 were on the 11th, and 7-10 year olds were on the 12th. See the camp highlight video below!
Major League players in attendance were Brandon Dixon (Detroit Tigers), Daniel Norris (Detroit Tigers) and Mark Karaviotis (Arizona Diamondbacks).
The director of the LA Dodgers training academy ran the clinic, putting kids through many drills and games from 9 am-3 pm. We also had a motivational speaker in attendance, speaking life and hope into our keiki.
Contact us for information on our next camp! Also, if you would like to volunteer (the more the better!), provide a scholarship for a child, or find a way to get involved, please don’t hesitate to reach out.