Hanohano Canoe Club Scholarship Program 

Supporting San Diego Youth in Water Sports and Ocean Stewardship

Hanohano Outrigger Canoe Club is a vibrant paddling ‘ohana’ founded in 1981 to honor and perpetuate the tradition of Hawaiian outrigger canoe racing. Based in Mission Bay, San Diego, we are a diverse and dedicated community of moms, dads, kids, friends, and chosen family. We are united by our love for the ocean, the sport, and each other. While we strive for excellence in competition, we value hard work, growth, and good sportsmanship above all. Through racing, fundraising, and sharing aloha, Hanohano fosters lifelong connections and a deep respect for the water that sustains us.

Hanohano Outrigger Canoe Club is deeply committed to supporting youth involvement in water sports and environmental stewardship. As a club rooted in tradition and community, we believe in perpetuating the sport of outrigger canoeing and encouraging a lifestyle centered around movement, connection to the ocean, and respect for the environment. We recognize that being a lifelong aquatics athlete not only promotes personal health and well-being but also fosters strong ties to the water and to one’s community. Preserving our natural resources is equally important—keeping our oceans and waterways clean, safe, and healthy ensures that future generations can continue to paddle, play, and protect the places we love.

Scholarship Overview

Hanohano’s annual scholarship supports San Diego area youth involved in water sports or environmental stewardship focused on the ocean and waterways. Each year, two graduating high school seniors will receive a $2,000 scholarship in recognition of their commitment to water sports, the environment, and education.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

  • Be a graduating high school senior

  • Commit to attend a four-year college/university or two-year community college

  • Have participated for at least two years in one of the following:

    • Outrigger canoe club

    • Surf, swim, dive, or water polo team

    • Junior lifeguard program or internship

    • San Diego-based environmental service group

  • Hold a minimum GPA of 3.0

Important Dates 

Application Deadline: May 10

Notification of Award: No later than June 5 (via email)

Application Instructions:

A recommendation from your coach or supervisor is required as part of the application. Hanohano will contact them directly after your application is submitted. 

You will also need to respond to three essay prompts: 

  • Who has been the most inspirational figure in your water sports or environmental journey, and why?

  • Describe the highlight of your experience in water sports or environmental stewardship.

  • Why do you believe you should receive this scholarship?


Fill out the google form to complete your application. 

Note: Applications will not be reviewed until the recommendation is received.

Cart (0)