Sharks Weekly: New Era for HPU Softball with Coach Alex Takemura

This week on Sharks Weekly, host Bailey Furman sat down with Hawai‘i Pacific University’s new softball head coach Alex Takemura and players Mia Carbonell and Alexis Oshiro to talk about the program’s future, the team’s energy, and the bond that’s already forming between players and coach.

Takemura steps into his first season at HPU with nearly 30 years in education and over two decades of coaching experience, including eight seasons at Mid-Pacific Institute—where he won three state championships—and recent years at Chaminade University, where he coached during his daughter’s senior year. While his resume speaks for itself, it’s his vision for HPU softball that truly sets the tone: he wants his players to enjoy the game, grow as people, and be part of something bigger than themselves.

That philosophy resonated with both Carbonell and Oshiro. They described practices as fun and lighthearted, yet grounded in a strong work ethic and attention to detail. Carbonell especially values how coach Takemura makes time to work with each player individually, while Oshiro praised the clear expectations and focus on intention that guide every drill. Together, they painted a picture of a program that balances discipline with joy—something coach hopes will be felt not only by his players but by the fans in the stands as well.

The conversation also touched on what it means to represent Hawai‘i at the collegiate level. Both players shared how important it is to honor those who came before them, while coach emphasized that energy and enthusiasm on the field will create the kind of support that inspires the community to rally behind the team.

Takemura also opened up about his personal journey, including the impact of his late mother, who was his biggest supporter. Accepting the HPU job just days after the one-year anniversary of her passing gave the opportunity a deeply emotional meaning. Carbonell and Oshiro echoed that theme of mentorship, sharing stories about the high school coaches who shaped them not just as athletes, but as people.

When asked about his players, Takemura was quick to highlight their importance. He described Oshiro as a natural leader who brings knowledge and bridges cultures and personalities, while Carbonell’s humor and energy keep the team connected and grounded.

Of course, no conversation about today’s athletes would be complete without acknowledging the effects of COVID-19. Both Carbonell and Oshiro shared how the pandemic disrupted key years of their playing careers, while coach reflected on his daughter’s canceled senior season, which led to a makeshift “senior day” in their own backyard. Those experiences, though challenging, have only strengthened their resilience and appreciation for the game.

Looking ahead, HPU Softball has an exciting slate of events on the horizon. The program will host a Prospect Camp on October 18, followed by a fundraiser on November 15 at the Japanese Culture Center, before taking part in a preseason tournament at the University of Hawai‘i—a field that holds special meaning for both Carbonell and Oshiro from their high school days. Recruiting is also in full swing, with coach committed to supporting Hawai‘i talent while also welcoming athletes from the mainland and abroad.

As the episode wrapped up, it was clear that coach Takemura’s arrival marks more than just a new season—it’s the beginning of a culture shift built on energy, purpose, and connection. For players like Carbonell and Oshiro, that vision is already taking shape, promising a season full of growth, excitement, and Shark pride.