Financial Assistance Program

At 808 Water Polo, we believe every athlete deserves the opportunity to play, grow, and be part of our water polo ʻohana, regardless of financial circumstances.

We recognize that the rising cost of living in Hawaiʻi has made it increasingly difficult for many local families to keep their children involved in youth sports. Thanks to the generosity of the Kenneth and Diane Matsuura Foundation, 808 Water Polo has established a $3,000 Financial Assistance Fund to help athletes experiencing financial hardship continue participating in our club.

Our goal is to support as many families as possible while responsibly stewarding these funds. As a condition of eligibility, every applicant for the Kenneth and Diane Matsuura Foundation Scholarship must first apply for the USA Water Polo Shieldy Scholarship. By utilizing national scholarship resources first, we can preserve the Kenneth and Diane Matsuura Foundation fund to assist even more Hawaiʻi athletes.

the kenneth and diane matsuura Foundation Scholarship Requirements

To be considered for financial assistance through 808 Water Polo, applicants must:

• Be a current or prospective 808 Water Polo athlete.

• Demonstrate financial need.

• Apply for the USA Water Polo Shieldy Scholarship before submitting a Kenneth and Diane Matsuura Foundation Scholarship application.

• Provide proof that the Shieldy Scholarship application has been submitted (or provide the scholarship decision if available).

• Remain in good standing with 808 Water Polo through positive attendance, effort, sportsmanship, and commitment.

Applications that do not include proof of a completed USA Water Polo Shieldy Scholarship application will not be considered.

Application Process

Step 1 – Apply for the USA Water Polo Shieldy Scholarship (Required)

All families seeking financial assistance through 808 Water Polo must first complete the USA Water Polo Shieldy Scholarship application.

1. Log in to your athlete’s USA Water Polo account.

2. Navigate to the Scholarships section.

3. Select the Shieldy Scholarship Fund Application.

4. Complete the application and upload the requested documentation.

5. Submit your application and save your confirmation or scholarship decision.

Step 2 – Apply for the Kenneth and Diane Matsuura Foundation Scholarship

Once your Shieldy Scholarship application has been submitted, you may apply for the Matsuura Family Foundation Scholarship through 808 Water Polo.

The application will request:

• Athlete’s name

• Athlete’s age group

• Parent/Guardian name

• Parent/Guardian email and phone number

• Brief explanation of financial need

• Proof of your USA Water Polo Shieldy Scholarship application or scholarship decision

• Any additional information you would like the 808 Water Polo Board to consider

Scholarship awards are based on demonstrated financial need, available funding, and the number of qualified applicants. Assistance is intended to help cover 808 Water Polo membership dues and is awarded at the discretion of the 808 Water Polo Board.

Supporting Local Families

808 Water Polo was founded to create opportunities for Hawaiʻi’s athletes. We understand that the cost of living continues to challenge many local families, and we never want financial hardship to be the reason a dedicated athlete has to leave the sport.

Mahalo to the Kenneth and Diane Matsuura Foundation for their generous investment in our athletes and our community. Their support helps ensure that more local keiki can continue training, competing, and representing Hawaiʻi with pride.

APPLY HERE: Kenneth and Diane Matsuura Foundation Scholarship