About Hui Wa'a O Puget Sound Outrigger Canoe Club

Our Story

Board of Directors

At Hui Wa’a O Puget Sound (outrigger canoe club of Puget Sound), our mission is to share and preserve Hawaiian culture through the art of outrigger canoe paddling.

The organization was established in 1997 with the mission of promoting Hawaiian culture in the Pacific Northwest. We are a non-profit 501(c)(3) dedicated to training and educating people of all ages in the practice of Hawaiian outrigger canoe paddling. Originally based out of Silver Lake in Everett, Washington, we now call Kenmore Paddle Park home.

Board of Directors

President: Stephen Pauelua
Vice President: Cheryl Kahealani DeAguiar Altice
Treasurer: Kathy De Aguiar
Secretary: Talei Ontiveros
Board Members at Large: Michael DeAguiar, Ivan Paizano, David Vincent
KWAC Board Representative: Sean Doyle

Practices

Board of Directors

Practices

Adult Practices:

Saturday Morning 9:00am (Year-round),
Tuesday and Thursday Evenings 6:00pm (from March through October)

Keiki (Youth) Practices:

Mondays at 5:00 pm and Saturdays at 2:00 pm (from March through October)

We offer adult practices for all ages and skill levels. Opio (teenagers) are welcome to join the adult practices. Keiki (kids) have a dedicated practice and must be at least 5 years and able to sit in the seat by themselves safely. Paddles, PFDs, and Basic lessons will be provided. Keiki will also learn about the parts of the wa’a (canoe) and how to care/maintain them.

Email us at HWOPS.contact@gmail.com for more information and/or to sign up for a practice.

Our values

Hui Wa’a O Puget Sound is built upon the values of Aloha (love, respect, and compassion) and Lokahi (unity, harmony, and working together). We commit to upholding these values in all aspects of our participation—whether on the water, within our community, or in our interactions with others.

Get in Touch

Respect for Culture and Tradition

Honor and perpetuate the Hawaiian culture by respecting its traditions, practices, and protocols in outrigger canoe paddling.
Recognize the cultural significance of outrigger canoeing and commit to learning about its history and values

Good Sportsmanship and Conduct

Demonstrate respect, integrity, and fairness in all interactions, both on and off the water.
Encourage and uplift teammates, opponents, and the broader paddling
community.
Avoid negative or unsportsmanlike behavior, including excessive aggression,
disrespectful language, or actions that undermine the spirit of competition.

Commitment to Lokahi (Working Together)

Support and work together as a team, recognizing that success is built on unity and cooperation.
Be reliable and committed to practice schedules, race participation, and team
responsibilities.
Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members, regardless of skill level or background.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I try a practice before joining?

Yes. New paddlers may attend two practices before joining and becoming a due paying member. Use the “Contact Us” form on the HWOPS website to request a practice date. Coaches will try to add you to the crew list for that day.

Do I need any paddling experience?

Beginners are welcome at HWOPS. Adult beginners and recreational paddlers should attend the Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday practices.

What should I bring to my first practice?

Bring water and athletic clothing appropriate for the weather. HWOPS provides paddles, safety equipment, and a basic lesson.

Are there competitive or race‑focused practices?

Yes. HWOPS offers advanced practices for paddlers preparing for races. Coaches will invite paddlers to these sessions based on readiness, technique, and consistency.

How do I get considered for race crews?

Race crew selection is based on attendance, coach evaluations, teamwork, technique, fitness, and commitment to the season. Coaches will communicate expectations before each race block.

Does HWOPS participate in local and regional races?

Yes. HWOPS competes in races throughout the Pacific Northwest and in national or international events, depending on interest and crew readiness. HWOPS is the host club for the Hui Wa'a O Puget Sound Sprint Regatta at Silverlake in Everett in early June.

Is there off‑season or winter training?

Details vary by season and will be shared by coaches.

How do I reserve a spot for practice?

Once you join (complete a club membership form, pay club dues, sign insurance waiver, and pay KWAC dues), coaches will add you to Team Cowboy, where you can RSVP for practices.

How does HWOPS communicate with members?

Slack: Team communication and announcements
Team Cowboy: Practice scheduling
Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/huiwaaopugetsound/ and https://www.facebook.com/groups/HWOPS/

What payments are required?

There are two payments. The first is HWOPS annual membership which depends on which plan you select:

Adult (18+) $150
Youth (18 and under) $50
Recreational Adult $75
Family Plan $200
KWAC Affiliate $75

Payment can be made via cash, check or Venmo.

The second is the Kenmore Waterfront Activities Center (KWAC) membership fee $20. The KWAC helps run our park programs and is our representative with the City of Kenmore where our canoe club is located. This small fee of $20 ensures our program continues at the park. Payment can be made via Paypal, Venmo or Card.

*Scholarship available to cover membership due for eligible recipients. Contact us to learn more.

E komo mai

E komo mai

Aloha

About Hui Wa'a O Puget Sound Outrigger Canoe Club

Our Story

Board of Directors

Board of Directors

Board of Directors

Board of Directors

Board of Directors

Practices

Board of Directors

Practices

Our values

Respect for Culture and Tradition

Good Sportsmanship and Conduct

Commitment to Lokahi (Working Together)

Exploring the beauty of outrigger canoe paddling

Frequently Asked Questions

Upcoming Events

Video

Join our club today!

Contact Us

Better yet, see us in person!

Practice Site: Kenmore Paddle Park/Tl'awh-ah-dees

Drop us a line!

E komo mai

E komo mai

Aloha

About Hui Wa'a O Puget Sound Outrigger Canoe Club

Our Story

Board of Directors

Board of Directors

Board of Directors

Board of Directors

Board of Directors

Practices

Board of Directors

Practices

Our values

Respect for Culture and Tradition

Good Sportsmanship and Conduct

Commitment to Lokahi (Working Together)

Exploring the beauty of outrigger canoe paddling

Frequently Asked Questions

Upcoming Events

Video

Join our club today!

Contact Us

Better yet, see us in person!

Practice Site: Kenmore Paddle Park/Tl'awh-ah-dees

Drop us a line!

This website uses cookies.