Playing sports isn’t just a way to kill time. You learn lessons that carry over to everyday life during fast-paced, pressure-packed moments, Alisha Aufai said. “It takes more than just being out on the court with (teammates) because you have to communicate in quick situations.” With that, here’s a quick look at the hard-hitting, guitar-strumming Aufai.
Coach’s corner A three-year varsity player, Aufai really understands the game and makes smart, quick decisions from the often mind-melting middle hitter spot, Stanwood coach Erik Titus said. “She has done very, very well with it. When you play that position correctly, your mind does go to mush.” “By now it’s kind of just instinct because I’ve been doing it awhile. It’s kind of reactive,” Aufai (pronounced Ow-fye) said.
I have the power
Aufai works on all aspects of the game, but her strength is pounding kills. “I like hitting the most ‘cause it keeps me happy. That’s where I extract the most power.”
Return trip? Last year Aufai and the Spartans advanced to the Class 4A state tournament for the first time since 2002. They went two-and-out but had a memorable experience. “You learn the meaning of the team. … I didn’t want to be there with anybody else,” said Aufai. With nine players back from that squad, Stanwood has a legitimate chance to return to state and place for the first time since 1992 (sixth in 3A).
Favorite team The University of Washington women’s volleyball team, which won its first national championship last December.
Family ties Aufai’s father, Ioane Aufai, grew up in Western Samoa, an island located east of Australia in the Pacific Ocean. Growing up, he played volleyball and rugby and later encouraged Alisha to try volleyball. Her older brother, Josh Aufai, 20, played football at Stanwood and is now a walk-on defensive back on the University of Hawaii football team.
Music Alisha Aufai plays the guitar and would love to have a career in music, possibly in production. She got her first guitar at age 12 and learned three chords. Now she can read and write music thanks to a class she took last year at Stanwood High. Some of her favorite musicians are Jack Johnson, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill.
Mike Cane, Herald Writer
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