Kona clinches inaugural BIIF flag football island championship

In a dazzling display of dominance, the Konawaena Wildcats' girls flag football team sealed their inaugural Central Pacific Bank/BIIF Girls Flag Football Championship with an unblemished 9-0 record [3]. The sensation doesn't just end on the Big Island as this excellent team qualified for the HHSAA Girls Flag Football State Tournament. However, their tournament run was cut short by Waianae, resulting in a 35-0 loss in the consolation bracket on May 1, 2025 [2][4].

The Wildcats previously dispatched opponents, including Hawaii Preparatory Academy (HPA), with key contributions from every player [5]. Junior Madie Buczyna stood out for HPA, but the specific stars of the Konawaena team remain elusive in available reports.

The Lady Wildcats showcased their defensive prowess and clutch play in critical moments to steamroll their way through the competition. After their historic win, head coach Mason Pyper acknowledged the team's grueling work ethic, committed to game-planning, and tireless practicing that led to their success [1].

Pyper also singled out quarterback Ki'ilei Leleiwi and No. 1 slot receiver Kylie Denis as vital contributors to the team. Leleiwi's prowess in the pocket, field vision, and precision downfield passing fueled the high-powered offense [1]. On the other hand, Denis proved an exceptional athlete in both offense and defense for the Lady Wildcats [1].

Defensively, Iolani Campbell, Bria Hao, and Kalei Blas were instrumental in shutting down opponents [1]. The combination of their individual talents and collective effort propelled the Wildcats to capture the legacy-making title on the Big Island.

As they prepare for the challenge ahead in the state tournament, the Lady Wildcats are focused on a game-at-a-time mentality, refusing to get ahead of themselves. Despite their setback in the consolation bracket, the coach and players remain eager to bring their A-game to each contest, regardless of the opponent.

While HPA (7-2) didn't clinch the championship, the school will nevertheless compete in the state tournament, set to face Leilehua at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Mililani High School [1]. Second-seeded Waiakea finished with an 8-1 record and will take on fourth-seeded Kamehameha-Maui in the first round at 4:45 p.m. Wednesday at Mililani [1].

Follow our coverage for updates on the state tournament, and visit our website for more photos from the previous games. Subscribe today to stay informed on all the latest athletic news!

In the upcoming NCAA football season of 2025, the community is excited to see the resilient Wildcats make their mark in American football, aiming to register a better average record than last year.
Despite missing out on the championship in the Girls Flag Football State Tournament, the Kamehameha school is gearing up for its American-football sports season, determined to challenge the dominance shown by the Wildcats.
After their impressive win at the Central Pacific Bank/BIIF Girls Flag Football Championship, the Konawaena Wildcats are expected to display the same level of sportsmanship and teamwork in their American-football season in 2025.
Konawaena High School's star quarterback, Ki'ilei Leleiwi, who performed exceptionally well in the flag football season, will be a key player to watch in the upcoming American-football season for the Wildcats.
The Wildcats may have had a disappointing end to their Girls Flag Football State Tournament run, but with players like Kylie Denis, Iolani Campbell, Bria Hao, and Kalei Blas on the team, hopes are high for a successful American-football season in 2025.