Kalani Varsity Boys Soccer has advanced to the playoffs from a 9-1-0 record in regular season. The Kalani Boys went from blowing out Kaimuki 9-0 to a close game of 4-3 against Kaiser, resulting in their first and only loss.

The past few years have been very successful, season-after-season. In 2018, the Falcons won the OIA State Championship after a 1-0 win against Kapolei. According to Alumni player and Assistant Head Coach, Brandon Chun, the program has been “pretty successful.” The team is looking for bigger goals than just the OIA Championship.

“The program has been competitive and close to achieve its goals,” Chun said. “Last year, they won OIA championships. Recently, they have been setting their goal for state championship.” 

Coach Michael Ching has greatly contributed to the program and progressed the team in the right direction over the past nine seasons, winning Kalani a total of two OIA Championships. However, Chun makes clear that there are still some things to work on before playoffs.

“They have been working hard and have a lot more to work on,” Chun explained. “We are looking to improve before the state tournament. Hopefully getting our peak at the right time as the playoffs begin.” 

According to a freshman starter, Lucas Wright, the team can not only win OIA’s but get to states. He has been enjoying his season due to the welcoming spirit of the team. 

“We’re doing really well in the season,” Lucas explained.

This week starts the boy’s playoffs. They played Campbell on Jan. 22 and won 5-0. They lost their next game on Jan. 24 against Mililani 3-2 but beat Kaiser 4-0 on Jan. 25, finishing first in the East and third in the OIA overall. They play their second game for the State Championship on Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. against Punahou.