Setter Adrianna Arquette embraces ‘dream’ role leading Rainbow Wahine offense

News admin September 12, 2026 0 Comments

Setter Adrianna Arquette embraces ‘dream’ role leading Rainbow Wahine offense

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The Rainbow Wahine volleyball team swept Central Arkansas Thursday night with a strong offense led by setter Adrianna Arquette.

Even before playing collegiately, the homegrown talent built an impressive resume as a state champion and outside hitter at Kamehameha Schools Kapālama.

Arquette’s goal was always to remain home and play at the University of Hawaiʻi — even if that meant switching gears to compete solely at setter.

“It’s really special for me to make that transition to college but being able to stay home in this great community, which is very unique in Hawaiʻi and how volleyball is such an important part of this community,” Arquette said. “It’s been a dream for me to stay home and play volleyball in front of my family and the state.”

Developing the art of setting

Arquette’s growth as a setter developed under former head coach Robyn Ah Mow. The three-time Olympian showed her how to quarterback the offense.

“Coach Rob taught me a lot about the game in general. The art of setting. What to look for on the other side. How can I put my hitters in the best position possible. How can I lead through action,” Arquette said.

In the final match of the Outrigger Invitational, Arquette recorded 36 assists, four kills, and five blocks, earning a spot on the All-Tournament team.

While she carries a quiet demeanor, the former state Gatorade Player of the Year leads by example.

Outside hitter Maeli Cormier said, “Adri and I are really good friends. We’ve been hanging out a ton especially in the summer, we were here getting reps. We’ve just built a really good relationship off the court and she’s one of my best friends, and I think that also shows on the court like how much trust we’ve had in each other.”

Middle blocker Rachel Purser added, “I love her. She’s the best. She’s so cute. It’s really good, she helps me out a lot. She talks to me almost every point after.”

Drawing guidance from a pro sibling

Arquette made it a point to work on her mental toughness this summer, often turning to her older brother, Aiva Arquette.

“A lot of it is him telling me to be free and just go ball out, just brotherly stuff,” Arquette said.

Aiva was drafted seventh overall by the Miami Marlins, becoming the second-highest Hawaiʻi-born pick.

“I’ve always looked up to him since I was young. Now that we’re older, he gives me a lot of advice especially on the mental side of things,” Arquette said. “He’s just been a great figure in my life for me and someone I can always look to and can be my inspiration.”

Hawaiʻi faces Central Arkansas Friday night, with coverage beginning at 6:30 p.m. on KFVE.