Longtime University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s women’s tennis volunteer assistant coach Saverio Mennella has been named the recipient of the 2023 Charlie Ushijima Award, which is presented by ʻAhahui Koa Ānuenue, the fundraising organization for UH Athletics. He received his award during halftime of the February 24 men’s basketball game at SimpliFi Arena at Stan Sheriff Center.
Mennella is now in his 17th year as a volunteer assistant coach. His level-headed demeanor and insightful coaching have proven instrumental in helping the team win multiple conference championships including the 2023 Big West Conference title.
He combines a great eye for detail, vast experience, and a sense of humor that helps the student-athletes enjoy the game and improve each day.
Mennella has dedicated hundreds of volunteer hours to the program whil=e also traveling with the team to road matches. He has also volunteered with camps and clinics to further promote the sport and the Rainbow Wahine program in the greater community.
The award is presented annually to an outstanding volunteer for dedicated and unselfish service to UH Athletics. Originally entitled the Rainbow Service Award, the Ushijima Award was later re-named after its first recipient, the late Charlie Ushijima who was responsible for the building of the first on-campus baseball stadium.
