Inaugural Hawaii Gridiron Games a success for state’s football community

MILILANI — Dillon Gabriel continues to expand his impact off the field, returning home to host the inaugural Hawai‘i Gridiron Games on Thursday at John Kauinana Stadium.

Organized by Gabriel’s I’m Inspired Foundation, the event brought together top high school football talent from across the state for a day centered on competition, mentorship and community engagement.

Athletes from multiple islands participated in a series of events that highlighted different aspects of the game.

The day opened with a “Big Man Showdown,” featuring linemen competing against each other before transitioning into a 7-on-7 competition that included players from both public and private schools. The showcase concluded with two Oahu Interscholastic Association-sanctioned girls flag football games, highlighting the sport’s rapid growth across Hawai‘i.

In addition to on-field competition, the event emphasized giving back. Participants received gear, and each of the four girls flag football teams was awarded a monetary donation from Gabriel and his foundation. A book drive was also held in conjunction with the event to promote literacy and support local students.

Gabriel, now a quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, said the event represents an expansion of the work he has done at his alma mater in recent years.

“We’ve done a bunch at Mililani High School, but definitely want to expand our reach,” Gabriel said. “We showed what we can do in one area, but now growing it to the larger football community, bringing everybody together — not just boys, but girls as well — just celebrating the game we love.”

Weather conditions posed a challenge, with rain and incoming storms throughout the day, but organizers and participants pressed on.

“Rain or shine, two storms coming our way, but we made it happen,” Gabriel said.

Gabriel has been actively supporting Mililani athletics since 2021, providing new uniforms to multiple sports programs. In 2024, he helped unveil new football uniforms during a community celebration that also featured performances by local music artists. The following year he contributed to the renovation of the school’s weight and training facilities, further investing in the development of future athletes.

The Hawai‘i Gridiron Games mark a shift from focusing primarily on one school to creating opportunities for athletes statewide.

“We all kind of sat down and knew we wanted to expand our reach and what we were doing,” Gabriel said. “We’ve made a bunch of impact at Mililani High School, but wanted to continue to share those resources with other football communities and bring it all together.”

Gabriel said the structure of the event was intentional, designed to highlight the full spectrum of football talent in Hawai‘i while also embracing emerging areas of the sport.

“With boys, of course, having the Big Man Showdown, there’s been a lot of success over the years with guys going to the next level,” he said. “The 7-on-7 scene has been blowing up this time of year — and with girls flag football being new, we wanted to celebrate them all together.”

As he continues to build his professional career, Gabriel said his commitment to Hawai‘i remains a priority. Reflecting on his first NFL season, he emphasized growth and optimism heading into year No. 2.

“Excited,” Gabriel said. “There’s a lot to grow from — being able to get in, get some tape and get better. There’s going to be things to correct, but also the excitement of knowing what to expect. I’m excited for the future.”