HILO, Hawaii — The assistant basketball coach of the University of Hawaii at Hilo apparently drowned while diving in Puna. Big Island police told CDNN that Hamilton Manley, 64, died while snorkel diving off the Kapoho Vacationland subdivision off Waiopae Road. According to witnesses, Manley was found floating unconscious in the ocean about 10 minutes after he started diving. Bystanders pulled him to shore, started CPR and called for help. Responding to a 9:43 am 911 call, police and paramedics rushed to the scene of the accident where they took over emergency medical treatment. Manley was taken to Hilo Medical Center, but he never regained consciousness, and was pronounced dead at about 11:00 am. Inspirational educator Friends and colleagues described Manley as an inspirational educator who touched the lives of the many young atheletes he coached. "Coach Ham touched the lives of countless college athletes and aspiring youth basketball players during his time with UH-Hilo," said Dr. Luoluo Hong, acting athletic director and vice chancellor of student affairs. "When we lose a coach and an educator like this, it is truly a grievous loss, but the ripple effects of coach Ham's influence will continue," Hong said in a UH news release. "Our hearts and prayers go out to his family and friends during this time." | 
