American Savings Bank (ASB) proudly supported the Honolulu Little League World Series (HLLWS) team in their quest to become this year’s Little League World Series Champions. In August, ASB donated $5,000 to help pay for the team’s travel-related expenses and, today, at an event held at the ASB Campus to celebrate the team’s win, ASB surprised the team and their families with an additional $7,000 ($500 per family) donation to help cover additional expenses incurred throughout their one-month trip.

“We are incredibly proud of the Honolulu Little League World Series team on their victory and applaud their remarkable aloha spirit, unwavering dedication and hard work,” said Ann Teranishi, president and chief executive officer at American Savings Bank. “Their contagious enthusiasm and passion for the sport was felt across the state throughout their championship journey. ASB is honored to celebrate and support the team through this memorable moment.”

A Celebration Fit for Champions

In addition to monetary donations, ASB also honored the HLLWS champs with a two-day celebration in true ASB-style. On Sept. 7, ASB hosted the team and their families for a post-win celebration at the ASB Campus. ASB teammates surprised them with a pep rally-style welcome complete with congratulatory signs, ti leaves and noisemakers. After a brief ceremony, the champions and their families were treated to local favorites that the team missed while on the mainland, which were generously provided by L&L Hawaiian Barbeque and Zippy’s. Guests also enjoyed entertainment, custom soft serve made in the team’s colors and ASB’s arcade and outdoor lanai games.

“As a former player, coach and manager, I know that the Honolulu Little League team fought hard for this phenomenal honor,” said Brian Yoshii, executive vice president and chief information officer at American Savings Bank, who was also the team manager for the 2010 U.S. Champion Waipio Little League West All-Stars. “As a father of four sons that also loved the sport, I know the dedication and grind that’s needed to reach this achievement. A huge congratulations to the team and Coach Gerald Oda on this amazing victory.”

Champion’s Parade

On Sept. 8, ASB teammates will cheer on the HLLWS Champions at the start of the parade route at Aala Park, across the street from the ASB Campus with signs, ti leaves and noisemakers. ASB will also be distributing baseball-themed treats during the parade from a classic Volkswagen Bus.