Antonio Eyes UH Men’s VB Team

Setting high standards for himself when it came to volleyball was only natural for Waipahu stand-out Chayse Antonio.

He had plenty of role models close to home, after all.

“My mom (Alicia) was an All-American at HPU, and she used to teach me volleyball,” said Antonio. “I also remember playing volleyball at the beach (Queen’s Surf in Waikiki) when I was little. I used to go with my auntie (former University of Hawaii star) Chastity Nobriga and watch her play all the time. Those were good times.”

Antonio recently completed a fine high school career of his own for Waipahu, which went 10-2 this season. All told, the Marauders were 23-5 over the past two seasons. During that run, Antonio was among the catalysts, having been named an OIA West Second Team All-Star as a junior.

He was a First Team ILH pick as a sophomore at Lanakila Baptist High School before transferring to Waipahu.

Antonio plans to try out for the UH men’s team in the fall when he begins attending the school.

He recently took some time to visit with MidWeek‘s West Oahu Islander.

Who has had the biggest impact on your life? My mom. She always pushed me to become a better person and a better player, and she taught me not to have an attitude.

What area of your game did you work on the most during the off-season? My setting. That had been my position last year, but I wasn’t consistent. I’ve gotten much better this year.

Who was Waipahu’s best practice player this season – the teammate who always gave 110 percent? Tupou Eliu. He always pushed me and my teammates to be the best. He’s always challenging us.

What film could you watch over and over? I used to watch SpaceJam a lot when I was a kid. It was my favorite.

What item couldn’t you live without? My phone. It’s always connected to me.

What website do you go to the most? YouTube. I like to go there in my spare time. I like to browse.

Do you have any pre-game rituals to prepare yourself mentally and physically? I always try to come to every game mentally prepared.

What is your least favorite household chore? Doing the laundry.

What do you like to do in your spare time? Hang out with my friends and get something to eat or just talk story. I like to just chill.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? That’s a hard one. I’ll probably be living with my family.

You’re stuck on Kahoolawe and can have an endless supply of just one food. What would it be? Sushi.

Who would be your choice for a celebrity date on a Saturday night? Angelina Jolie.