Central Pacific Bank announced Tuesday that it will serve as the first-ever title sponsor of the Maui Interscholastic League Sports Championship for the next three academic years (2023-24 through 2025-26).
“Central Pacific Bank signage will be installed at each championship, and CPB representatives will assist in presenting awards to participating teams.” Keith Amemiya, CPB Senior Vice Chairman, said:
CPB will provide funding to cover the costs of running the championships, including match officials, security, gate personnel, trophies and medals.
“The funding we are providing will help cover these types of costs of running the championship.” Amemiya said. “The amount was not disclosed, but it will be a multi-year deal. This is a lump sum amount that the league will spend at its discretion.”
CPB said in a news release that this financial support will help improve the player and spectator experience at the title game.
Additionally, CPB serves as the title sponsor of the Big Island Interscholastic Federation and Kauai Interscholastic Federation leagues during the fall, winter and spring sports seasons. The only exception is his BIIF Boys and Girls Basketball Championships, sponsored by KTA Superstore.
“If we can help out high schools, especially on neighboring islands, that would be great.” Amemiya said.
CPB President and CEO Arnold Martinez was born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii and is a graduate of Honokaa High School.
He said the Aug. 8 wildfires on Maui led to his decision to become the title sponsor.
“The Maui tragedy has shown us how sports can bring communities together and bring a sense of normalcy during difficult times.” Martinez said in a news release. “High school sports are an important part of a student-athlete’s educational experience and a healthy outlet for young people, so we are honored to provide this support to our neighboring island schools.”
MIL consists of 14 high schools, BIIF consists of 24 high schools, and KIF consists of 9 high schools.
“On behalf of our MIL School, I would like to give a huge compliment to CPB for this unprecedented support of athletics on our neighboring islands.” MIL Executive Director Joe Balangitao said in a news release.
* Robert Collias is rcollias@mauinews.com.