The first thing that comes to mind when we think of ‘ohana is a line from the Disney movie Lilo & Stitch:

“‘Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.”

What Is ‘Ohana?

In Hawaiian culture, ‘ohana includes not only your immediate family, but also your extended circle—friends, mentors, teammates, classmates, and others who become your chosen family. It’s about more than blood—it’s about connection, compassion, and commitment.

Being part of an ‘ohana comes with responsibility: to act with integrity, to lift others up, and to bring honor to the group. When you join BLUE WAVE, you become part of this extended family. That means we care for, support, and lead each other. We organize, we plan, we mentor, and we model what it means to be accountable and kind.

The Responsibility of ‘Ohana

At BLUE WAVE, ‘ohana includes everyone: past, present, and future members of our swim family. We’re all connected by our shared values and our love for the sport. Relationships are at the heart of what we do—relationships built on loyalty, trust, and support. We’re here not only to grow as athletes, but to grow as people, and to ensure the next generation thrives.

There’s a saying in many Indigenous cultures:

“Prepare for the seven generations ahead.”
 

It reminds us that the work we do today should serve not only ourselves but those who come after us. By living out the values of ‘ohana, we create a legacy for the future.

Growing Our ‘Ohana

When we’re mindful of our ‘ohana, we look outward and invite others in. We find connection, and with it comes acceptance. While swimming may seem like an individual pursuit, our shared journey makes us stronger. Together, we make waves—waves of encouragement, growth, and love. That’s the power of a true team.

A Symbol for ‘Ohana

When we searched for a symbol that represents ‘ohana, one stood out: the honu, or Hawaiian green sea turtle. The honu is one of the oldest living creatures on earth and symbolizes good luck, endurance, and longevity. It beautifully reflects our values and the spirit of our team—steadfast, resilient, and united.

We’re all in this together. Even though swimming is an individual sport, our team ‘ohana is the wind at your back. It helps you go further than you could alone. Your growth creates a ripple effect—reaching far beyond the pool. And honestly? We think the world could use a little more ‘ohana.

So who’s in your ‘ohana?
For us, it’s simple: everyone on the BLUE WAVE Swim Team.

BLUE WAVE on 3… 1… 2… 3… GO BLUE WAVE!