It all began with two friends who loved sports, travel, and the aloha spirit. Seeing the challenges athletes face when competing away from home, they created Aloha Athlete Services - to handle the details so athletes can focus on their performance.

Emily Cardone-Dennis Chief of Athlete Logistics

With over 15 years in the film industry and a background in production and storytelling, Emily knows the power of creating seamless experiences—both on screen and in real life. A former Division 1 collegiate athlete, she understands firsthand the dedication, discipline, and logistical challenges that come with competing at the highest levels.

Emily’s passion for sports, community, and Hawaii led her to co-found Aloha Athlete Services, a premier concierge service designed to support athletes traveling to the islands for competitions. She combines her expertise in organization, event planning, and local connections to ensure every athlete has a stress-free, high-performance experience while embracing the spirit of aloha.

Beyond her work in athletics and film, Emily is also an open-water swimmer, a dog rescuer, and a lifelong learner with a deep curiosity for psychology, wellness, and human performance. She thrives on creating meaningful connections and is committed to elevating the athlete experience while supporting local businesses and fostering a true ‘ohana feel.

Melissa Harnsberger Chief of Athlete Health & Wellness

Melissa is the ultimate problem-solver when it comes to athlete travel, health, and logistics. As a military spouse and mom of three, she’s mastered the art of juggling complex schedules, managing tight transitions, and making moves—eight moves in 12 including two overseas—all while keeping things running smoothly. With experience living in hotels and short-term accommodations for weeks at a time, she knows exactly how to optimize healthy living on the go, ensuring that athletes can stay at peak performance no matter where they are.

But she’s not just a logistics pro—she’s an athlete herself. A dedicated open water swimmer with multiple top-three age-group finishes, she understands the thrill of competition, the importance of preparation, and the need for a smooth, worry-free race experience. She’s been there—balancing training, travel, and the unexpected—and she’s here to make sure athletes can focus on what really matters: performing at their best.

With a background as a physician assistant, she brings an in-depth understanding of the physical and mental needs for athletes of all abilities. Whether it’s optimizing recovery, managing stress, or ensuring proper nutrition and movement while on the road, she knows that true success goes beyond just the race—it’s about total well-being.

At Aloha Athlete Services, Melissa combines logistical expertise, athletic experience, and a deep love for the aloha lifestyle to offer athletes a concierge-level experience tailored to their unique needs. Whether it’s a first-time racer or a seasoned pro, she ensures that every athlete can arrive, compete, and enjoy Hawaii—without the hassle.