Harrison named Punahou head coach


Former University of Hawai'i baseball standout Kenny Harrison has been named head coach at Punahou, the school announced yesterday.

Harrison served as an assistant on the Buffanblu's intermediate team in 2009 and varsity in 2001. As varsity head coach, he will be responsible for overseeing teams from all levels, according to a school press release.

"I'm excited for this opportunity, and look forward to helping the students get better as players and as people," Harrison said. 
Harrison takes over for longtime coach Eric Kadooka, who stepped down in August after guiding Punahou to a record seven straight state championships from 2004 through 2010.

"We are thrilled to have Kenny join our team," Punahou athletic director Jeaney Garcia said. "He brings great expertise and passion to his coaching, and we look forward to his contributions in continuing Punahou's tradition of excellence."

Harrison, a former multi-sport standout at University High, played at UH from 1990 to 1993 and capped his collegiate career as Western Athletic Conference Player of the Year and First Team All-American as chosen by the Baseball Writers Association of America. Harrison was drafted by the Minnesota Twins but deferred to play in Japan as a semi-professional. He currently works as General Sales Manager at ESPN 1420.