In Hawaiian language, "ho'okahi" translates "to make one."
On Mondays and Thursdays this summer, GoSwords.com will talk to select returning student-athletes from all 10 Chaminade University sports about how they are learning from home, keeping busy and coping with the current situation.
Featured here is
Ellyonna Bankofier of women's basketball. The sophomore from Happy Valley, Ore., was the Silverswords' second-leading scorer and also finished second in 3-pointers made.
Q (GS.com): What are you missing the most about Chaminade?
A (ES): Currently I'm on the mainland in Portland, Ore., and I am missing all my teammates and friends. Also, I'm in the Nursing program and my clinical hours were transferred to online and I'm really missing being able to be in the hospital since we missed out on that opportunity!
Q: What are you doing to keep your spirits up during the situation?
A: Most of my time I spend is outside. I have been doing a great job at keeping active by either going on runs outside every day or going on hikes all around Oregon. It's been fun to be outdoors almost every day and looking for more adventure. My friends and I try to plan a trip somewhere each week whether it's the lake, beach or mountains!
Q: How are you staying connected with your coaches and teammates?
A: My teammates, coaches and I are staying connected by video chat on Zoom. Since we were unable to have our postseason and meetings to keep us updated, our coach has done a great job at keeping in contact with us and checking up.
Q: Have you learned any new skills or picked up new hobbies that you otherwise would not have if not for the current situation?
A: Recently I have learned to play pickleball and tennis. I played pickleball for the first time about a month ago and I absolutely loved it. These activities are great way to stay outdoors with your family and friends. I play either tennis or pickleball at least three times a week now.
Q: What is your favorite on-the-field or on-court memory from this past 2019-20 year?
A: My favorite memory on the court in 2019-20 was playing against Pennsylvania. I was really proud of my team that game and how we played against a Division I team. We never backed down and kept playing 'til the buzzer.
Q: What is the first thing you will do after we return to a sense of "normalcy?"
A: The first thing that I'm going to do once things reach "normalcy" is get back on the court and scrimmage with all my friends and teammates. I miss being able to play 5 vs. 5 and get up and down. Lastly, I'm excited to get back to the weight room. I've been working out a lot in my home gym but I'm excited to be able to use all the equipment and be able to work out with my friends.
