Six Months In: Matt Elliott on Momentum, Community, and the Future of UH Athletics

Six months into his tenure as University of Hawaiʻi Athletics Director, Matt Elliott joined Wake Up in the Den for a wide-ranging conversation that touched on community, momentum, and the evolving future of UH athletics.

Elliott officially began his appointment on June 30, 2025, and with the calendar turning toward the end of the year, the milestone offered a natural pause for reflection. From the outset, Elliott emphasized that what has stood out most isn’t a single result or decision — it’s the people. He spoke about the passion Hawaiʻi shows for its teams and the kindness he and his family have felt since arriving, describing a community that genuinely wants UH athletics to succeed and believes deeply in its role across the islands.

A Season to Remember

When asked about the highlights of his first six months on the job, Elliott didn’t start with wins or trophies — he started with the fans. He pointed to the passion of the UH community and the consistent support shown across programs, noting how quickly that connection became apparent after his arrival. That foundation, Elliott said, is what allows moments on the field to resonate far beyond the final score.

From there, football naturally followed. Elliott referenced a season bookended by unforgettable finishes — a last-second kick to open the year against Stanford and a bowl victory sealed by a late touchdown pass to beat Cal — both coming at home in front of energized crowds. Those moments, he said, captured the pride, joy, and statewide impact UH football can generate when momentum builds.

The conversation also turned to head coach Timmy Chang, with Elliott addressing continued fan curiosity surrounding Chang’s future. Chang received a one-year contract extension in December 2024 that runs through the 2026 season, and after a 9–4 campaign capped by a 35–31 Hawaiʻi Bowl win over Cal, questions about a longer-term extension have naturally followed. While Elliott reiterated that he does not comment on ongoing personnel matters, he spoke at length about the growth of the program under Chang’s leadership, calling the transformation over the past four seasons “truly remarkable.”

Elliott highlighted a UH-produced video that juxtaposed Chang’s first season with the close of this one — showing the same seniors who once sat on the field during rebuilding years now walking across it celebrated, surrounded by family and lei. He described that moment as one of the most moving sports experiences he’s witnessed, and a powerful testament to the culture, relationships, and belief Chang and his staff have built within the program.

Navigating NIL and a Changing Landscape

A significant portion of the interview centered on NIL and UH’s recent informational briefing with state legislators. Elliott framed NIL not as a threat to academics, but as an evolution that allows student-athletes to better support themselves while continuing to represent the university, the local economy, and the state with pride.

He emphasized transparency in UH’s approach — outlining what it realistically takes to compete in the Mountain West while noting that UH is currently funding NIL through philanthropy and revenue generation. Elliott stressed that the request for state support is about sustainability and planning, not excess, and about positioning UH to remain competitive while continuing to invest in student-athletes.

Access, Exposure, and Rebuilding the Connection

Another recurring theme was access. Elliott acknowledged that pay-per-view once served a financial purpose, but said it also created barriers between UH athletics and the community. Rebuilding that connection, especially without a permanent on-campus stadium, has been a priority.

He spoke about the importance of visibility — children growing up with UH games on in the background, families gathering around broadcasts, and fans being able to easily find games across platforms. Elliott expressed confidence that UH football will not return to a pay-per-view model, with future media partnerships prioritizing exposure and accessibility.

What’s Ahead for 2026 and Beyond

Looking forward, Elliott outlined several initiatives expected to shape UH athletics in the coming year. Among them: issuing a request for proposals for local media rights, beginning the process of evaluating UH’s multimedia rights partnership, and exploring ways to create additional premium seating and fan experiences across UH venues.

Each effort, Elliott explained, is about responsibly growing revenue while enhancing the fan experience — not pricing people out, but offering more options for supporters, partners, and businesses to engage with UH athletics in meaningful ways.

A Message to the UH Community

To close the conversation, Elliott offered a message rooted in gratitude and invitation. He thanked fans for their support throughout the second half of 2025 and encouraged the community to continue showing up — not just for football, but for basketball, volleyball, baseball, softball, and the many programs that make UH athletics special.

For Elliott, the joy of UH sports lies in shared experiences: families in the stands, kids running through arenas, and student-athletes inspiring the next generation. Six months in, his vision is clear — strengthen connections, build momentum, and ensure UH athletics remains a source of pride for the university and the state as 2026 approaches.

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