Hawai'i has its first Olympian soccer star. What a score!

Kahuku-born Natasha Kai is about to make a mark in the Islands' sports annals as indelible as her copious tattoos, which in themselves have become famous.

One of them, emblazoned on one side of her waist, urges everyone to "appreciate the moment."

"The most precious treasure on earth is my heart," it continues. "When I share it with you, protect it as if it were your own."

It's a somewhat surprising show of vulnerability from an athlete who otherwise outwardly seems brimming with confidence on the national sports stage.

The former University of Hawai'i All-American has made her name as one of the leading scorers on the U.S. Women's National Team.

She ranks second in scoring for the U.S. team's 2008 season, with 11 goals in 12 games. Olympic audiences can expect quite a show from the 25-year-old veteran of competition worldwide.

Even beyond the athletic prowess, there are the theatrics. Besides the tattoos, Kai loves flash and color. Check out those two-toned Nikes. And that dancing — Kai has choreographed hip-hop routines for her teammates.

It's hard to know what to expect when the U.S. team opens against Norway Aug. 6 in Qinhuangdao, China. But it's going to be a great day, no doubt, for all her proud fans at home when Kai "shares her heart."

And they'll "appreciate the moment."