Hawaii Women’s Volleyball Coach Resigns in Shocking Twist—Cites Expired Contract and Sudden Urge to Chase Pro Surfing Dream
HONOLULU, HI – In a move that has left the sports world reeling, Hawaii’s Women’s Volleyball head coach, Makana Kealoha, announced her resignation late Tuesday night, citing the expiration of her contract and a sudden, unexpected calling to pursue a career as a professional surfer.
Kealoha, who had led the Rainbow Wahine volleyball team for the past five years, is widely regarded as one of the most successful coaches in recent history, leading the team to three NCAA tournament appearances and helping build a dynasty of fierce competitors on the court. However, in a shocking statement released through the university’s athletics department, the 38-year-old coach expressed a newfound passion for the waves and a deep longing for a life that many would deem risky and uncertain.
“My contract may have expired, but this decision is about more than just that,” Kealoha wrote in her resignation letter. “For years, I’ve watched the ocean call me while I’ve been wrapped up in the grind of collegiate sports. I’ve always had the heart of a surfer, and I believe now is the time to take the leap. It’s my time to chase my dream.”
The announcement sent waves through the Hawaii athletics community, leaving many to question how such an experienced and dedicated coach could suddenly walk away from a program that was at the peak of its competitive power.
“I was completely blindsided,” said Kala’i Roberts, an assistant coach who had worked alongside Kealoha for the past three seasons. “We all knew she loved the ocean, but this is beyond anything we could have imagined. She’s been a mentor, a leader, and a part of the family. It’s going to be hard to see her go. But I respect her decision. She’s always been a person who listens to her heart.”
Local fans were equally stunned by the news. The Hawaii Women’s Volleyball team had just come off a stellar season, one that saw them reach the Final Four for the first time in a decade. It seemed as though Kealoha was on the brink of achieving even more with the team, but she had other priorities.
**A Life Beyond the Court**
Born and raised on the North Shore of Oahu, Kealoha’s love for surfing is not a secret. Her childhood was spent riding the waves, and her family has been entrenched in Hawaiian surf culture for generations. However, it was volleyball that initially drew her in after a standout high school career. She went on to play for the University of Hawaii before transitioning into coaching. Despite her success in volleyball, Kealoha has always maintained a connection to surfing, spending every free moment possible at the beach.
But it was during the last off-season, after a particularly grueling tournament in Long Beach, that the feeling intensified. Kealoha stood on the shore after a rare moment of peace during a hectic schedule and watched the surfers glide effortlessly across the waves.
“It was as if the ocean called me back,” she said in a phone interview with a local news outlet. “There was a voice in my head telling me, ‘You need to do this. Now.’ I’ve had moments of doubt before, but this felt different. It was time to listen.”
Kealoha began spending more time surfing during her breaks, initially as a way to recharge from the pressures of her coaching duties. However, what started as a simple hobby soon became a full-blown obsession. She even began training with some of Hawaii’s top surfers, gaining recognition as a rising talent in the sport. The desire to compete professionally became an overwhelming urge that she could no longer ignore.
**The Resignation**
Kealoha’s resignation letter stunned not only her colleagues but also the players she had mentored. According to team sources, the coach had informed them of her decision during a private meeting, which left many in tears. Some players were completely unaware of her surfing aspirations, while others had heard murmurs but had no idea it was serious.
“I was shocked, but also, I completely understand,” said senior outside hitter Leilani Aiona, who has been under Kealoha’s tutelage for all four years of her college career. “We all knew Coach loved the ocean, but I didn’t think she’d actually leave. It’s hard to imagine the program without her. She was like a second mom to me.”
Many speculated that Kealoha’s resignation might have had something to do with the expiration of her contract. The University of Hawaii had yet to offer her a new contract, and some believed that negotiations had stalled over terms. However, insiders close to the situation say the coach’s decision was not financially motivated.
“This wasn’t about money or contracts,” said a source within the athletics department. “Makana has always been about more than just coaching. She has a passion for the ocean and a need to challenge herself in ways that volleyball just couldn’t provide anymore. She didn’t want to be ‘stuck’ in something that no longer brought her joy.”
Kealoha’s resignation marks the end of an era for the Rainbow Wahine volleyball program. During her tenure, Kealoha was responsible for revitalizing the team, bringing in top talent from across the country, and rebuilding the team’s reputation as one of the top programs in women’s volleyball. Her dynamic coaching style and emphasis on mental toughness were key to the team’s success.
**The Future of the Program**
With Kealoha’s sudden departure, the university now faces the challenge of finding a replacement. Athletic director David Chang acknowledged the shock of the resignation but expressed confidence that the program would move forward.
“Coach Kealoha has been an incredible asset to our program, and her contributions cannot be overstated,” said Chang in a press conference. “We wish her the best in her new journey. While her departure is a surprise, we will ensure that the team continues to grow and succeed in her absence.”
The university has already begun a national search for a new head coach. In the meantime, assistant coach Kala’i Roberts will take over as interim head coach, and the team will continue to train in preparation for the upcoming season.
**Kealoha’s Next Adventure**
As for Kealoha, she is already in the process of making her professional surfing debut. While she has not officially signed with any surf sponsors yet, insiders say that several top-tier brands are already eyeing her as a potential athlete. Kealoha’s unique blend of athleticism, charisma, and native Hawaiian heritage makes her an appealing prospect in the world of professional surfing.
“I’m excited and nervous all at once,” Kealoha admitted. “This is a huge risk, but I’ve never been afraid of going after what I want. Life’s too short to live with regrets. It’s time for me to take the plunge—into the water.”
For now, Kealoha is relishing the freedom of her decision. She’s already packing her bags for an upcoming surf competition in California, and her supporters are eager to see what comes next.
“This is a new chapter,” she said, her voice tinged with both excitement and peace. “I’ll always love volleyball, but the waves are calling. I’m ready to answer.”
### The Last Word
In a final note to her players, Kealoha wrote: “Chase your dreams—no matter how big they seem. You have the power to shape your own story, and I’ll always be cheering for you from the shoreline.”
As she prepares for her new life as a professional surfer, one thing is clear: Makana Kealoha is a woman who will never stop chasing the next big wave—whether it’s on the court or in the ocean.