In July, a Hawaii PONY League official told Pono’s father and interpreter, James Tokioka, that he had to remain outside the dugout while he interpreted for his son.  The official said PONY rules allowed only three coaches in the dugout, and James Tokioka would be considered a fourth coach.

Pono’s parents asked PONY Baseball/Softball, Inc., to change its rules to allow dugout interpreters in addition to the three coaches, but the organization denied the appeal.  On December 5 the National Association of the Deaf filed a complaint with the U.S. Justice Department, charging that the rule violates the Americans wiith Disabilities Act.

Today Abercrombie wrote Abraham Key, the organization’s President/CEO, expressing his disappointement in the group’s stance:

Dear Mr. Key:

I was disappointed to learn of the PONY baseball’s treatment of Hawaii player, Justin “Pono” Tokioka, and his inability to participate in a state tournament game because he did not have access to a sign-language interpreter.   What I find even more distressing is a policy change was not made at the national level and that this issue had to be referred to the Department of Justice. 

The bigger issue at stake here is that adults are taking away the love of the game from those who it is originally intended for: the kids.  While I have the utmost respect for the game and the PONY league, in Justin’s case, its rules and regulations serve to constrict opportunity to participate rather than promote sportsmanship and fellowship.  PONY Baseball and Softball’s mission is “designed to Protect Our Nation's Youth by providing experiences in youth baseball and softball that will help young people grow into healthier and happier adults.”  Let’s bring the human dimension back to this magnificent game.   

Thank you for your attention to my concerns.  Please do not hesitate to contact me if you should have any questions or concerns. 

 Sincerely,

 /s/ Neil Abercrombie

Member of Congress

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