Jordan Ulep, 15, was with a group of six friends when they entered the water near ‘Jump Rock’ at about 12:30 p.m. The group placed most of their possessions inside a black JanSport backpack, which was left on the sand. Inside were clothes, cell phones, cash and Ulep’s two rings.
“We went in the water for like two hours and then when we got back up there our stuff was gone. Those rings are just like what (the team) accomplished.”
Ulep was among thirteen players that captured the hearts of fans across Hawaii during Waipio’s championship run at South Williamsport, Pennsylvania. The team of eleven and twelve year olds battled back from a four run deficit against Louisiana in the final inning of the U.S. Championship before winning the game 7-5. The team went on to clobber Mexico in the international final by a score of 12-3.
Ulep’s mother says the family is completely heartbroken now that both of her son’s championship rings are gone. One ring is made of white gold, while the other is made of silver. The team purchased a set of championship rings after their victory over Mexico and received another set from Royal Hawaiian Heritage Jewelry as gifts.
“We can replace money, cell phones, clothes (and) backpacks,” said Jean Miller. “All that can be replaced, but not the rings and the memories.”
Ulep filed a stolen property report with Honolulu police, but so far there’s been no information about the missing rings.
FLYING BACK HOME
The teen says he would be depressed to fly back home to the East Coast without his prize possessions. Ulep and his parents moved to Evans, Georgia in June of last year. He and his mom are scheduled to return Friday evening after spending a week on Oahu.
“Just find the ring and call us,” Ulep pleaded. “No questions asked.”
Ulep continues to play baseball at Greenbrier High School in Evans, Georgia where last season he had a near .600 batting average as a center fielder.
Register to log on and leave a comment
Have a news tip? Contact Andrew Pereira at 368-7273. Follow Andrew on Twitter at Khon_Reporter
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
