For Hofherr-Sanders, staying home in Hawai‘i to play for Chaminade University is nothing short of a dream. The Silverswords went an impressive 20-0 in Pacific West Conference play last season, and she’s eager to contribute to that momentum. “Home is home. That’s where my heart is,” she says. “I just want to add to that program.” At 5’8”, Hofherr-Sanders knows she’s not the typical size for a middle or opposite hitter—but that hasn’t held her back. “That’s probably unheard of,” she laughs. “But I’ve got some hops on me, I guess!” Initially a standout in indoor volleyball, Hofherr- Sanders has since made her mark in the sand as part of Outrigger’s Beach Volleyball Program over the last two years, a development Coach Alvarez has watched with pride. While Hofherr-Sanders doesn’t see herself as overly competitive, she knows having fun on the court is what matters most. Still, she credits her biggest motivation to her mom. “My mom has put in so much effort to support me playing volleyball,” she shares. “We live on the west side, and I didn’t start driving until I was 17, so we would drive to town every day for indoor or beach volleyball practices. She’s my number one fan—she’s awesome.” It’s safe to say these two West O‘ahu athletes have found more than just a place to train at OCC— they’ve found community, surrounded by teammates who push them to dig deeper, serve harder, and play smarter—all while sharing a lot of fun and laughter along the way. ■
Left: Savai Kilaulanii
and Aliya Hofherr- Sanders gear up for one final summer together on the sand before taking their talents to the collegiate level. Above: Hofherr-Sanders rises for a hit at the net, poised for her next chapter at Chaminade. Right: Kilaulanii lays it all out in the sand, sharpening her game for MiraCosta College.
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