✺ OCC Member Profile
next generation of paddlers. She prioritizes giving back to her community through her coaching role because she loves the connections she makes with the girls and finds joy in witnessing their passion for the sport. “I feel fortunate in that I had some really good coaches and was a part of some really strong, tight-knit crews,” Orr reflects. “Somebody spent the time to share this with me, and I want to pass it forward and share it with others. And if I can help, my life is richer for it.” Sisters Coco and Lola Heahlke have been pad- dling since 2021 and 2022, respectively, and they feel lucky to have had Orr as their first coach. Before
tie-dye sessions and team sleepovers. Despite no longer being Heahlke’s main coach, Orr continues to support her. She was there when Heahlke recently took on the Catalina Channel Crossing, even making travel survival kits for her and her teammates. Each kit included a thought- ful assortment of items, including a razor to “cut through the water,” a playful reminder of Orr’s blend of support and humor. “She’s meant a tremendous amount to our family through the love and support she’s shown our girls over the last few years,” says Matt Heahl- ke, Coco and Lola’s father. With so many choices
“You can tell when she interacts with the girls that she cares about them as more than just paddlers.” —Anthony Hunt
joining Nā Kama O Kapua White, Coco Heahlke had no experience in water sports. True to her approach, Orr not only taught her the fundamentals of paddling, but also helped her grow as a person. As a result, Heahlke gained confidence in the water and has since advanced to the Red program. “I love her no-nonsense attitude. It’s always focused, but then there are times when you can have fun,” Heahlke shares. Both sisters fondly recall bonding moments with the team, including taking out a two-man canoe and enjoying activities like
available to youth in extracurricular activities, Heahlke recognizes the challenge of encouraging kids to commit to sports programs. However, he has witnessed the program's growth thanks to Orr and her dedicated team of coaches. “Every year, she brings out a stronger team, and you can see that in the races. They’re just doing better and better each season.” Commitment, hard work, positivity, and a willingness to try new things and overcome fears—these are the qualities Orr instills in her
18 AMA | NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2024
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