Kalani Catcher Proves He Can Play Anywhere In The Lineup

Kalani High School’s Chase Sumida could be regarded as a generalist rather than a specialist on the baseball field. He does-n’t care where he plays, as long as he’s in the lineup.

“I grew up playing all over the place, so I’ll play anywhere,” he said.

This spring, Sumida has settled in as the Falcons’ catcher, a position he’s also playing this summer with Falcon Baseball, which competes in the American Legion Baseball League.

As a sophomore, Sumida was Kalani’s third baseman after a freshman year when he played multiple positions.

Throughout, he’s provided an active bat, offensively, for the Falcons.

“On the field, his strength is his hitting and his leadership,” head coach Shannon Hirai said.

Since Hirai took over the Kalani program in 1997, Sumida is one of only four players to make varsity as a freshman. Sumida recently took some time away from the practice field to visit with MidWeek‘s East Oahu Islander:

Who’s had the biggest impact on your life? My parents (Craig and Cheryl). They’ve guided me through the ups and downs of my life.

What is your earliest sports-related memory? Playing tee-ball with my dad, who was my coach. I was 4, I think. It came pretty easy. I had a lot of fun, which is why I continued with baseball.

What area of your game will you focus on in the off-season? My fundamentals – just getting those down – and I’ll work on my hitting and my fielding. I’ll work on all aspects of my game.

Who is Falcon Base-ball’s best ‘practice player’ – the guy who gives 110 percent at all times? Everyone on the team gives 110 percent all of the time, so there isn’t just one player.

What Internet site do you frequent the most?

Facebook. I use it to keep in touch with friends.

What is your least favorite household chore? Cleaning windows.

What movie could you watch over and over? The Hangover.

What’s in your iPod?

I like to listen to a lot of local music.

How do you spend your free time? I like to go to the beach, and I like to go fishing. I usually fish on the Waialua side. I like water (related) activities.

What person in history would you like to have met? Abraham Lincoln. I think he would have been a cool person to meet.

If you could have your pick, what celebrity would you choose as your prom date? (Actress) Jamie Chung.

You’re stuck on the island of Kahoolawe and can have an endless supply of just one food. What would it be? Fish. I love fish – or any kind of seafood.