Haleiwa, HI
September was another big month for ’Iolani's Junior Taimane Ainu'u, who continued to show why she is one of Hawai’i's standout High School Volleyball players. From helping lead the Raiders through an undefeated month in league play to competing against some of the nation's top programs on the mainland, Ainu'u made her presence felt every time she stepped onto the court. Her ability to lead the offense, contribute on defense, and create opportunities for her teammates played a major role in ’Iolani's success throughout the month.
For her outstanding performances and contributions to the Raiders' success, Taimane Ainu'u has been named NorthVue's September 2026 Cover Athlete of the Month, presented by Matsumoto Shave Ice.
As ’Iolani worked its way through the ILH schedule, Ainu'u continued to be one of the key pieces behind the Raiders' success. Playing the setter, she helped control the pace of the game and kept the offense moving while finding ways to get her teammates involved. Her consistency and leadership helped Iolani remain undefeated in league play throughout September, giving the Raiders valuable momentum as the season continued.
Ainu'u’s all-around production shows just how much she brings to the court. Her reported season totals include 528 assists, 131 digs, 40 service aces, 60 kills, and 23 total blocks while hitting .343 across 56 sets played. While her assist numbers stand out, her ability to contribute in multiple areas makes her an even bigger threat. Whether she is setting up a teammate for a kill, making a defensive play to keep a rally alive, or putting pressure on opponents from the service line, Ainu'u continues to find ways to make an impact.
One of the biggest parts of her game is her ability to bring the entire offense together. With 528 assists, Ainu'u has been a driving force behind ’Iolani's attack, helping create opportunities for the Raiders' hitters while keeping opposing defenses guessing. Her 40 service aces also highlight another part of her game, as she has shown the ability to create scoring opportunities from behind the service line. Combined with her defensive production, Ainu'u has continued to prove that her impact goes well beyond setting the ball.
One of the biggest tests of September came when ’Iolani traveled to Las Vegas for the Durango Fall Classic, where the Raiders competed against some of the top high school volleyball programs in the country. ’Iolani put together an impressive 6-1 showing, picking up wins over Foothill, Mercy Academy, Vista Murrieta, Harrisburg, and Prestonwood Christian along the way. The Raiders advanced to the Gold Bracket quarterfinals before falling to nationally top-ranked Sierra Canyon, then bounced back to finish their tournament run with a victory over Prestonwood Christian. The experience gave Ainu'u and her teammates an opportunity to test themselves against elite competition while continuing to build momentum for the rest of their season.
The Raiders carried that momentum back home into ILH competition. On September 22, ’Iolani swept Kamehameha 25-15, 25-19, 25-19, continuing its unbeaten run in league play. Just two days later, the Raiders delivered another straight-set victory, this time against Mid-Pacific, 25-14, 25-20, 25-12. With Ainu'u helping direct the offense, ’Iolani continued to establish itself as one of the teams to beat in Hawai'i.
Ainu'u's accomplishments extend beyond her performances with the Raiders. Despite still being a Junior, she has already committed to the University of Texas, taking another major step in her volleyball journey. Her commitment to one of the nation's premier collegiate volleyball programs reflects the talent and dedication she has shown throughout her high school career. Even with her future already taking shape, Ainu'u continues to focus on helping ’Iolani compete at the highest level.
What made September special was the combination of individual production and team success. Ainu'u continued to make an impact in nearly every part of the game, helping guide the Raiders through an undefeated month in ILH play while also contributing to a strong showing on the national stage. Her consistency, versatility, and ability to lead the offense have made her an important part of ’Iolani's success.
As October gets underway, we look forward to highlighting another group of athletes who continue to make their mark across the islands, with the next Cover Athlete of the Month set to be announced following the conclusion of October.
Congratulations to Taimane Ainu'u on being named NorthVue's September 2026 Cover Athlete of the Month presented by Matsumoto Shave Ice!
A special mahalo to Matsumoto Shave Ice for supporting NorthVue's Cover Athlete of the Month and helping us recognize the dedication, hard work, and accomplishments of Hawaiʻi's student-athletes.
Pictures taken by: Kennedy Velasco - @kennnchapo
2026 September Cover Athlete of the Month
Taimane Ainu'u
Video by: Logan Pactol - @_lowgxn
