For 97-year-old Jitsumi Yamakawa, watching University of Hawai‘i sports is more than a pastime; it’s an integral part of his daily routine. Everything from football to golf, live broadcasts to rebroadcasts of exciting games, Yamakawa (also known as “Uncle Joe”) tunes in to all things UH sports.
“Uncle Joe was always an avid sports fan, and a proud supporter of UH Athletics,” said his niece Carole. “His TV is always tuned in to football, volleyball, baseball and golf.”
After presenting a very generous gift on April 21, 2016, Yamakawa got a chance to tour UH Athletics facilities and meet members of the UH Athletics ‘ohana, who gifted him with an autographed football, a personalized UH football jersey and the autographs of UH coaches.
“We appreciate Uncle Joe's support of athletics, and respect his service to our country in the 442nd,” said UH football coach Nick Rolovich. “We know that he will wear the jersey with great pride, and that makes us very happy.”
Yamakawa enjoyed playing golf in his younger days and up until recently, took hour-long walks around his Mililani neighborhood for exercise. When asked if he has a favorite sport, “He likes all sports, especially football,” said Carole. “Uncle Joe predicts that UH will have a great season.”
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