Minneapolis is quite a journey away from Nanakuli, but Richard “Keoki” Chun is taking in every moment.
The Nanakuli senior offensive lineman is among a group of nearly seventy Native American high school athletes that were selected to participate in the 2025 Native All American Football Game and Camp at U.S. Bank Stadium, the home of the Minnesota Vikings of the NFL.
While majority of the participants are Native American from various different tribes, Chun is representing Native Hawaiians in the event with Proof of Ancestry from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Hawaiian Registry Program.
“This opportunity means more than just me,” Chun said. “I’m grateful and excited to represent Native Hawaiians and to carry respect, discipline and resilience wherever I go. I’m truly blessed. I give all my glory to God and just thank him for all my opportunities.”
The camp portion of the annual event ran from Dec. 10th to 13th, while the game will kickoff at 7:00 a.m. HST on Sunday, Dec. 14. Click HERE to watch.
During the event, Chun got to be coached by former NFL players Derek Fine, Ahman Green, Levi Horn and Chase Johnson. Recruiters from college and professional organizations were also in attendance.
Chun — who is 6-foot-5, 340-pounds — will be a part of the designated visiting team named Wa’Ya and be coached by Horn, who is a enrolled member of the Northern Cheyenne Nation. Horn began his collegiate career as a standout tight end at Washington State before excelling as an All-American offensive tackle at the University of Montana and getting signed by the Chicago Bears in 2010.
“I’ve learned so much from this experience and the cultural exchange connecting to many different athletes with similar backgrounds,” Chun said.
“Glad to be a part of this and hopefully inspire others to dream big as well.”
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