Rainbow Warriors get early start on preparation for 2026 season

Rainbow Warriors get early start on preparation for 2026 season

Feb 5, 2026

Rainbow Warriors get early start on preparation for 2026 season

MANOA — Early bird gets the worm.

The University of Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors football team started spring practice on Feb. 3, making the program one of the first across the nation to start its preparation for the 2026 season.

Timmy Chang, now in his fifth year as head coach at his alma mater, has no problem with the short turnaround time after his team last played on Christmas Eve in the Sheraton Hawai’i Bowl.

“It first our schedule, it fits what we want to do,” said Chang. “We got a bunch of new guys in there. It allows us to continue to develop. There’s no perfect plan. It’s just a plan that we believe will help develop our guys and get our guys going.”

Timmy Chang embarks on his fifth season as the head coach of his alma mater. | Photo: Michael Lasquero

Hawai’i is coming off a season when it went 9-4 and reached its first bowl game under Chang. The primary offensive scheme that the Rainbow Warriors utilize is the run-and-shoot, which is an intricate offense that has receivers adjust their routes on the fly based on the defensive coverage.

“I think we benefit the most off of getting reps as fast as we can, and then being able to pour into our guys and getting them to understand and have a better understanding of what we need them to do, what we want them to do, what football looks like here at the university of Hawai’i,” said Chang.

One of the newcomers to the team is receiver Audric Harris, a 6-foot-1, 190-pound junior transfer from Washington. Harris is thankful for the opportunity to get into the playbook faster after arriving to the islands a few weeks ago.

“This early start kind of helps,” he said. “Coming in three weeks ago, being able to learn the plays real quick, being able to go out there and execute the plays as soon as possible, that helps me get a grasp of the offense faster.”

Washington transfer Audric Harris runs after the catch in a positional drill. | Photo: Michael Lasquero

The main important thing that Chang wants his team to accomplish during the 15 allowed practices in the spring is development.

“It wasn’t perfect, but the intention is what was there and their want to was there,” said Chang. “It’s just about cleaning everything up. Go make new mistakes, we know they’re going to make mistakes and they know that. They’re not going to know everything to do out there, but as long as the intent to want to get better is there, it’ll be good.”

Safeties Makana Meyers (21) and Matagi Thompson (25) take part in a ball security drill. | Photo: Michael Lasquero

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Kahuku Ends Title Drought, Edges Kailua 35–32 for OIA Division I Championship

Kahuku Ends Title Drought, Edges Kailua 35–32 for OIA Division I Championship

Feb 4, 2026

The Red Raider faithful that made the trip to Radford’s Jim Alegre Gymnasium were treated to a Kahuku victory in the OIA championship. | Photo: Daniel Fujita, Special to HSRN

Kahuku Ends Title Drought, Edges Kailua 35–32 for OIA Division I Championship

BY HSRN STAFF | HONOLULU
PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 4, 2026

HONOLULU – The Kahuku Red Raiders closed the door on a long-awaited return to the top of OIA Division I boys basketball Tuesday night, grinding out a hard-fought 35–32 victory over the defending champion Kailua Surfriders in a defensive-heavy championship showdown.

The win delivered Kahuku its first OIA Division I boys basketball title since 2017, once again under head coach Brandyn Akana, and capped a season defined by resilience, depth, and late-game execution.

Kailua’s Sebastian Ledda puts up a shot attempt in the first half against Kahuku. | Photo: Michael Lasquero, HSRN

LISTEN TO THE BROADCAST

Both teams struggled to find rhythm offensively in a physical, low-scoring contest that featured six lead changes and tight margins throughout. Kahuku held slim advantages after the first two quarters before Kailua surged ahead late in the third, setting the stage for a dramatic final frame.

Kahuku responded with its best quarter of the night when it mattered most, outscoring Kailua 15–7 in the fourth quarter. Timely stops, defensive discipline, and clutch free throws proved decisive as the Red Raiders regained control in the final minutes.

Kahuku’s Justus Daley puts up a layup attempt in the first half against Kailua. | Photo: Michael Lasquero, HSRN

Coach Akana credited his team’s toughness and belief after the game. “There were times when we could give up, but the guys never gave up,” he said. “They held to it, and towards the end you could see that we came out on top”

The championship was particularly meaningful given Kahuku’s ability to adjust without a key contributor in the lineup. Akana praised his team’s depth, noting that players stepped up organically without needing to be told — a sign of a group built for postseason moments.

Fun Factory VIP of the Game: Tiki Akina-Watson

Senior Tiki Akina-Watson was named the Fun Factory VIP of the Game, embracing the challenge of impacting the championship beyond the box score. Tasked with defending Kailua’s top scorer, Akina-Watson embraced his role, helping limit Maddox Pung and anchoring Kahuku’s late-game defense.

“Our goal was to shut Maddox down,” Akina-Watson said. “It wasn’t just me — it was my team. Everybody played a big part”.

Offensively, Akina-Watson delivered when it mattered most, knocking down clutch free throws in the final minute. “Free throws win games,” he said. “If you don’t think so, you just saw it happen”.

For the senior, the moment carried deeper meaning. “It means everything,” Akina-Watson said. “My last year here, I couldn’t ask for anything more. We’re coming for the state next”.

Kahuku guard Tiki Akina-Watson surveys the court in the first half. | Photo: Daniel Fujita, Special to HSRN

Top Performers

Kahuku Red Raiders

  • Inoke Lloyd – Led Kahuku with 9 points, knocking down key shots and playing heavy minutes in the backcourt.

  • Tiki Akina-Watson – Posted 6 points, 8 rebounds, and took on the primary defensive assignment late.

  • Kashus Daley – Added 6 points and delivered key free throws in the fourth quarter.

  • Chauncey Ako – Finished with 6 points on efficient shooting, providing steady contributions off the bench.

Kailua Surfriders

  • Dylan Kunz – Led Kailua with 11 points, including three three-pointers.

  • Joseph Bieniek – Contributed 8 points and 6 rebounds.

  • Sebastian Ledda – Added 7 points and 11 rebounds, battling inside all night.

  • Maddox Pung – Limited to 4 points on a tough shooting night as Kahuku’s defense focused on containment.

Kahuku held Kailua to 24.5 percent shooting from the field, a defensive effort that ultimately decided the championship.

What’s Next

Both teams advance to the HHSAA Boys Basketball State Championships in Division I.

  • First Round: Monday, February 9

  • Quarterfinals: Wednesday, February 11

  • Semifinals: Thursday, February 12

  • Championship: Friday, February 13 at Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center

Click HERE for the DI bracket.

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL LASQUERO

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Kaimuki Claims OIA Division II Boys Basketball Title with 59–38 Win Over Waiʻanae

Kaimuki Claims OIA Division II Boys Basketball Title with 59–38 Win Over Waiʻanae

Feb 4, 2026

The Kaimuki Bulldogs celebrate after a big play against Wai’anae in the OIA Division II championship game. | Photo: Daniel Fujita, special to HSRN

Kaimuki Claims OIA Division II Boys Basketball Title with 59–38 Win Over Waiʻanae

BY HSRN STAFF | HONOLULU
PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 4, 2026

HONOLULU – The Kaimuki Bulldogs delivered a composed, wire-to-wire performance Wednesday night to capture the OIA Division II boys basketball championship, pulling away from Waiʻanae for a decisive 59–38 victory at Jim Alegre Gymnasium.

Kaimuki set the tone early, opening the game on a 19–10 first-quarter run and never looking back. The Bulldogs continued to apply steady pressure on both ends of the floor, extending the lead to 35–19 by halftime and holding Waiʻanae to single-digit scoring in the second and third quarters.

Kaimuki senior guard Manduy Pham puts up a jumper against Wai’anae in the first half of the OIA championship game. | Photo: Michael Lasquero, HSRN

LISTEN TO THE BROADCAST

Elijah Fritz-Betiru led a balanced Bulldogs attack with 11 points, while Manduy Pham added 14 points and Hilton Edward chipped in nine. Kaimuki’s defense proved just as effective, forcing turnovers and limiting Waiʻanae to 20.0 percent shooting from the field and 3-of-19 from three-point range.

The Seariders were paced by Herman Ellis, who scored six points, while Janzen Butay and Josten Figueroa each added four. Despite battling on the glass, Waiʻanae struggled to generate consistent offense against Kaimuki’s disciplined half-court defense.

Kaimuki head coach Greydon Espinda gets his team settled in the huddle during the fourth quarter. | Photo: Michael Lasquero, HSRN

Kaimuki outscored Waiʻanae 13–7 in the third quarter to put the game firmly out of reach, then closed out the championship with a controlled fourth quarter that highlighted the Bulldogs’ depth and poise.

The title marks Kaimuki’s third OIA Division II championship in the past five seasons, further cementing head coach Greydon Espinda’s run as one of the most successful stretches in program history. Under Espinda, the Bulldogs have now claimed OIA D-II crowns in 2022, 2024, and 2026.

Fun Factory VIP of the Game: Hilton Edward

Senior Hilton Edward was named the Fun Factory VIP of the Game, capping off a championship night that blended production, leadership, and pride in the Bulldogs’ program. Edward finished with nine points and helped anchor Kaimuki’s defensive effort as the Bulldogs pulled away in the second half.

Edward credited the Bulldogs’ chemistry for the dominant performance, saying the key was simply to “work together, play together,” noting that this time around Kaimuki “played harder, tried harder, and actually played well together”.

The senior also pointed to preparation as a difference-maker, explaining that Kaimuki’s outside shooting reflected what the team consistently works on in practice. On the defensive end, Edward emphasized the Bulldogs’ focus on tightening up late to protect the lead.

For Edward, the championship carried special meaning. “It means a lot because now I can leave the school with something,” he said, as Kaimuki brought another OIA Division II title back to the ‘Dawg Pound’.

Kaimuki big man Hilton Edward blocks a shot attempt by Wai’anae in the second half. | Photo: Daniel Fujita, special to HSRN

Top Performers

Kaimuki Bulldogs

  • ManDuy Pham – Led all scorers with 14 points, providing steady offense throughout the night.

  • Elijah Fritz-Betiru – Finished with 11 points, including timely baskets that helped Kaimuki extend its lead in the second half.

  • Hilton Edward – Added 9 points and anchored a Bulldogs defense that limited Waiʻanae to 38 points.

  • Russell Kinere – Contributed 4 points, 5 rebounds, and strong interior defense, helping control the paint.

Waiʻanae Seariders

  • Herman Ellis – Team-high 6 points, battling through a tough shooting night.

  • Janzen Butay – Scored 4 points and provided defensive energy on the perimeter.

  • Josten Figueroa – Added 4 points and worked on the glass despite Kaimuki’s size advantage.

Kaimuki’s balanced scoring and defensive discipline proved decisive, with multiple players contributing on both ends as the Bulldogs pulled away early and never relinquished control.

What’s Next

Both teams advance to the HHSAA Boys Basketball State Championships in Division II.

  • First Round: Wednesday, February 11

  • Semifinals: Thursday, February 12

  • Championship: Friday, February 13 at Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL LASQUERO

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Mountain West Unveils Expanded Media Rights Deal Through 2032

Mountain West Unveils Expanded Media Rights Deal Through 2032

Feb 3, 2026

Mountain West Unveils Expanded Media Rights Deal Through 2032

HSRN STAFF | HONOLULU
PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 3, 2026

The Mountain West Conference announced a sweeping new media rights package Tuesday, securing long-term partnerships with CBS Sports, FOX Sports, The CW Network, and streaming partner Kiswe.

The agreements with CBS Sports, FOX Sports, and Kiswe run six years from the 2026-27 through 2031-32 seasons, while The CW Network has committed to a five-year deal through 2030-31. Conference officials described the deal as the most expansive media distribution plan in Mountain West history, pairing national broadcast exposure with an enhanced direct-to-consumer streaming platform.

Mountain West Commissioner Gloria Nevarez said the agreement delivers “unprecedented national linear visibility” while creating new digital opportunities that spotlight student-athletes, institutions, and conference-wide storytelling.

According to Chris Vannini of The Athletic, financials of the deal were not disclosed, but Nevarez confirmed that legacy conference members will not see a decrease from the previous media rights payout of around $3.5 million per year, which was promised in the grant of rights, whether the money comes entirely from the TV deal or is drawn in part from league reserves.

Mountain West Coverage by Network

 

CBS Sports

  • 15 regular-season football games annually on CBS Sports Network

  • At least one football game per year on the CBS Television Network and Paramount+

  • 18 regular-season men’s basketball games on CBS Sports Network

  • Men’s Basketball Championship Game remains on CBS

  • Men’s tournament quarterfinals and semifinals on CBS Sports Network

  • Two regular-season women’s basketball games annually

  • Women’s Basketball Championship Game on CBS Sports Network

FOX Sports

  • Exclusive rights to the Mountain West Football Championship Game

  • 12 regular-season football games per year across FOX, FS1, and FS2

  • 20 regular-season men’s basketball games annually

The CW Network

  • 13 regular-season football games annually

  • 20 regular-season men’s basketball games

  • 15 regular-season women’s basketball games

  • Represents a significant increase in national exposure for Mountain West women’s basketball

Collectively, CBS, FOX, and The CW will broadcast more than 150 live Mountain West events each year, maximizing exposure across national windows and major sports platforms.

MW App & Streaming Expansion

In partnership with Kiswe, the Mountain West will launch an upgraded MW App in July 2026, transitioning from a free model to a subscription-based service. The platform will serve as the exclusive streaming home for Mountain West events not carried on national linear television and is expected to feature more than 1,000 live regular-season and postseason events annually, on-demand replays, highlights, and original programming.

Fans will also be able to access the MW App through a subscription on Prime Video this fall, expanding availability across connected TV and mobile platforms.

University of Hawai’i

As a full Mountain West member beginning in 2026, the University of Hawai‘i stands to benefit from the conference’s expanded national footprint while continuing to pursue a separate local media partnership for Rainbow Warrior home events.

“Today’s conference media rights announcement starts an exciting new chapter for University of Hawai‘i Athletics and the Mountain West,” said UH Athletics Director Matt Elliott. “The package ensures broad conference exposure with national TV partners FOX, CBS, and The CW, while also vastly increasing the overall availability of UH competitions through the Mountain West’s direct-to-consumer platform.”

“With the national media rights finalized, securing a local media partner is the next major priority for UH,” Elliott added. “We are committed to finding a partner who recognizes the value of the UH brand and celebrates our unique identity while further amplifying our student-athletes’ successes. We will establish a partnership that drives revenue and delivers a high-quality experience for our local viewers, the broadcaster, and the University.”

 

National vs. Local Media Rights — What It Means

National Media Rights
The Mountain West’s national media rights deal controls games selected for broadcast on CBS Sports, FOX Sports, The CW Network, and streaming platforms tied to the conference. These agreements provide national exposure for Mountain West teams and ensure marquee matchups are widely available across the country.

Local Media Rights
Local media rights are negotiated individually by each school and cover games not picked up by national partners. For the University of Hawai‘i, this includes the majority of Rainbow Warrior & Rainbow Wahine home events and determines how fans across the islands can watch games on local TV, streaming platforms, and digital channels.

Together, the two structures work in tandem — national partners elevate visibility beyond Hawai‘i, while a local media partner ensures consistent, accessible coverage for fans at home.

Mountain West Conference Members (2026-27)

Football Members (Competing in Mountain West Football)

These schools will field Mountain West football teams beginning in the 2026 season:

  • United States Air Force Academy

  • University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (upgrading from football-only to full member)

  • University of Nevada, Reno

  • University of New Mexico

  • Northern Illinois University (football-only member)

  • San José State University

  • University of Nevada, Las Vegas

  • University of Texas at El Paso

  • University of Wyoming

This group will compete for the Mountain West Football Championship and follow an eight-game conference schedule.

Full Members (All Sports Except Football Where Not Listed Above)

These schools compete across most Mountain West championship sports, including basketball and Olympic sports:

  • University of California, Davis — All MW sports except football*

  • Grand Canyon University — All MW sports except football (already competing beginning 2025-26)

*UC Davis football currently competes in the Big Sky Conference (FCS)

Affiliate Members (Sport-Specific)

These institutions participate in select Mountain West sports only:

  • Colorado College (Women’s Soccer)

  • Northern Illinois University (Football & Women’s Gymnastics)

  • Utah Tech University (Baseball & Men’s Swimming & Diving)

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Hawai‘i Football Spring Roster 2026

Hawai‘i Football Spring Roster 2026

Feb 3, 2026

Hawai’i head coach Timmy Chang looks on during a home game. The fourth-year head coach has the Rainbow Warriors one game away from a postseason return. | Photo Credit: Michael Lasquero, HSRN

Hawai‘i Football Spring Roster 2026

HSRN STAFF | HONOLULU
PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 3, 2026

The University of Hawai‘i has released its 2026 Spring Football roster, offering an early look at the personnel that will shape the Rainbow Warriors heading into spring practices. The roster features a blend of returning veterans, emerging underclassmen, and new faces across every position group, with a strong local presence from O‘ahu and the neighbor islands complemented by experienced transfers from the continent.

With spring camp focused on development, evaluation, and competition, the position-by-position breakdown provides a snapshot of depth, versatility, and roster makeup as Hawai‘i begins preparations for the upcoming season.

Hawai‘i Sports Radio Network will provide continued coverage throughout spring practices, highlighting key position groups, player storylines, and developments as the Rainbow Warriors move closer to kickoff.

Hawai’i football-commit Maika Eugenio fires a pass against Kahuku in Bishop Gorman’s 38-0 win over the Red Raiders. | Photo: Michael Lasquero, HSRN

Quarterbacks (QB)

  • 10 – Bjorn Jurgensen | 6-3, 200 | Fr. | Orlando, Fla. / Bishop Moore Catholic | Virginia

  • 12 – Micah Alejado | 5-10, 180 | So. | Las Vegas, Nev. / Bishop Gorman HS

  • 14 – Maika Eugenio | 6-0, 180 | Fr. | Las Vegas, Nev. / Bishop Gorman HS

Running Backs (RB)

  • 0 – Cam Barfield | 5-7, 190 | Sr. | Las Vegas, Nev. / Bishop Gorman HS | Boston College

  • 1 – DeVon Rice | 5-9, 175 | So. | Las Vegas, Nev. / Bishop Gorman HS | Kansas State

  • 22 – Titan Lacaden | 5-6, 170 | Rf. | Kapolei, O‘ahu / Saint Louis School

  • 26 – Sitani Mikaele | 5-11, 235 | So. | Waiahole, O‘ahu / Farrington HS

  • 28 – TJ Fo‘ilefutu | 6-0, 235 | Fr. | Peoria, Ariz. / Liberty HS

  • 31 – Tryton Keli‘ikipi | 5-8, 185 | So. | Wai‘anae, O‘ahu / Kapolei HS

Wide Receivers (WR)

  • 2 – Audric Harris | 6-1, 190 | Jr. | Bellflower, Calif. / Bishop Gorman HS | Washington

  • 3 – Carson Brown | 6-1, 195 | Sr. | Ankeny, Iowa / Dowling Catholic | Iowa State

  • 4 – Jarvis “Dino” Heimuli | 6-3, 195 | So. | Fort Worth, Texas / Euless Trinity HS

  • 5 – Pofele Ashlock | 6-2, 180 | Sr. | Euless, Texas / Trinity HS

  • 6 – Kainoa “Kaikai” Carvalho | 5-6, 165 | Rf. | La‘ie, O‘ahu / Kahuku HS

  • 7 – Tre’ Griffiths | 6-3, 205 | So. | Keller, Texas / Keller HS | Oklahoma State

  • 8 – Tama Uiliata | 5-11, 190 | So. | Waipahu, O‘ahu / Waipahu HS

  • 11 – Devin Alves | 6-3, 195 | Sr. | Melbourne, Fla. / Melbourne Senior HS | Virginia Tech

  • 13 – Koa Eldredge | 6-0, 195 | Sr. | Honolulu, O‘ahu / Punahou School | BYU

  • 17 – Nick Delgadillo | 6-0, 185 | Jr. | Wai‘anae, O‘ahu / Saint Louis School

  • 18 – Blaze Kamoku | 5-6, 170 | Sr. | Kapolei, O‘ahu / Kamehameha Schools | Olivet Nazarene

  • 19 – Diezel Kamoku | 5-9, 200 | So. | Kapolei, O‘ahu / Kahuku HS | Utah

  • 80 – Robert Haynes | 6-2, 170 | Fr. | Missouri City, Texas / Ridge Point HS

  • 83 – Josiah Fetui | 6-3, 180 | So. | ‘Ewa Beach, O‘ahu / Saint Louis School

  • 84 – Dillon Booth | 5-9, 175 | Fr. | Irvine, Calif. / Crean Lutheran HS

  • 86 – Brandon Gaea | 6-0, 190 | Fr. | Honolulu, O‘ahu / Bishop Gorman HS

Tight Ends (TE)

  • 9 – Devon Tauaefa | 6-5, 220 | Sr. | Honolulu, O‘ahu / Saint Louis School

  • 45 – Micah Kaonohi-Kaihenui | 5-11, 255 | Sr. | Waimanalo, O‘ahu / Kamehameha Schools–Kapālama

  • 46 – Matthew Bailiff | 6-1, 235 | Jr. | Kaysville, Utah / Layton Christian Academy

  • 81 – Frank Abreu | 6-4, 235 | Rf. | Kula, Maui / Kamehameha Schools–Maui

  • 85 – Oakie Salave‘a | 6-2, 240 | Sr. | Leone Ili‘ili, American Samoa / Tafuna HS | Colorado

  • 88 – Anthony Hickman | 6-3, 235 | So. | Las Vegas, Nev. / Bishop Gorman HS | Concordia St. Paul

Offensive Line (OL)

  • 50 – Tu‘i Muti | 6-1, 320 | So. | La‘ie, O‘ahu / Punahou School

  • 51 – Eric McFall | 6-4, 320 | So. | Neiafu, Savai‘i, Samoa / Leone HS | NMMI

  • 52 – Dean Briski | 6-5, 305 | Sr. | Pago Pago, American Samoa / Samoana HS

  • 53 – Kawika “KJ” Hallums | 6-2, 295 | Fr. | ‘Aiea, O‘ahu / Bishop Gorman HS

  • 54 – Jordan Kernaghan | 6-3, 290 | Rf. | ‘Ewa Beach, O‘ahu / Campbell HS

  • 55 – Jay Tauala-Harris | 6-3, 285 | So. | Long Beach, Calif. / Lakewood HS

  • 56 – Boogie Henderson | 6-4, 310 | So. | Los Angeles, Calif. / Junipero Serra HS

  • 57 – Ethan Spencer | 6-2, 300 | Sr. | Kailua, O‘ahu / Saint Louis School

  • 58 – Denaris DeRosa Jr. | 6-3, 295 | Sr. | Redwood City, Calif. / St. Francis HS | San Jose State

  • 60 – Ezekiel Salanoa | 5-11, 300 | Rf. | Honolulu, O‘ahu / Saint Louis School

  • 62 – Lautaimi Manuma | 6-3, 290 | So. | ‘Ewa Beach, O‘ahu / Campbell HS

  • 72 – Josh Tavui | 6-2, 300 | Rf. | ‘Ewa Beach, O‘ahu / Campbell HS

  • 73 – Lipe Moala | 6-6, 350 | Jr. | Riverside, Calif. / Mater Dei HS | Oregon

  • 75 – Khalil Walker | 6-5, 315 | Jr. | Canton, Ohio / Pickerington HS | South Florida

  • 77 – Uluaki Taukiuvea | 6-5, 315 | Rf. | West Valley City, Utah / Hunter HS

  • 79 – Judah Kaio | 6-3, 305 | Sr. | Kane‘ohe, O‘ahu / Kahuku HS | Pacific (Ore.)

Defensive Line (DL)

  • 9 – Adam Tomczyk | 6-3, 260 | Sr. | Long Beach, Calif. / Los Alamitos HS | West Virginia

  • 10 – Ka‘eo Akana | 6-3, 245 | Sr. | Honolulu, O‘ahu / Roosevelt HS | Utah

  • 20 – Noah Wily | 6-3, 235 | So. | La‘ie, O‘ahu / Saint Louis School

  • 26 – Nazaiah Caravallo | 6-2, 235 | So. | ‘Ewa Beach, O‘ahu / Campbell HS

  • 33 – Falelua Moalele | 6-5, 260 | Rf. | Tafuna, American Samoa / Liberty HS

  • 51 – Lesterlaisene Lagafuaina | 6-4, 240 | Jr. | Nu‘uuli, American Samoa / Tafuna HS

  • 52 – Luther McCoy | 6-5, 270 | Gr. Proof | St. John’s, Fla. / Creekside HS | Minnesota

  • 55 – Zoram Petelo | 6-4, 270 | So. | Saleaula, Savai‘i, Samoa / Layton Christian Academy

  • 56 – Spencer Elliott | 6-3, 250 | Sr. | Bend, Ore. / Summit HS | Portland State

  • 90 – Ha‘aheo Dela Cruz | 6-2, 260 | So. | Honolulu, O‘ahu / ‘Iolani School

  • 91 – Josh Sagapolutele | 6-0, 255 | Jr. | Waimanalo, O‘ahu / Saint Louis School

  • 92 – Waipehe Winchester | 6-2, 260 | So. | Mililani, O‘ahu / ‘Iolani School

  • 95 – Geoffrey Speight | 6-1, 275 | Sr. | McDonough, Ga. / Union Grove HS | West Georgia

  • 96 – Iosefa Letuli | 6-5, 260 | So. | Oceanside, Calif. / Kaimuki HS | BYU

  • 97 – Jordan Lynch | 6-3, 295 | So. | College Station, Texas / A&M Consolidated HS | UT Permian Basin

  • 99 – Ozzy Pollard | 6-4, 285 | So. | Carmel, Ind. / Carmel HS | Marian University

Linebackers (LB)

  • 7 – Julian “JuJu” Smith | 6-0, 200 | Jr. | Bakersfield, Calif. / Graces Memorial HS | Bakersfield College

  • 11 – Jamih Otis | 5-11, 220 | Sr. | Las Vegas, Nev. / Bishop Gorman HS

  • 12 – Wynden Ho‘ohuli | 6-3, 240 | Sr. | Kapolei, O‘ahu / Mililani HS | Nebraska

  • 18 – Zaden Mariteragi | 6-1, 220 | Rf. | Kahuku, O‘ahu / Farrington HS

  • 30 – Zion “Ziggy” Vea | 5-10, 225 | Fr. | Nānākuli, O‘ahu / Farrington HS

  • 31 – Aisiah “Scoob” Paogofie | 6-1, 220 | Rf. | Wai‘anae, O‘ahu / Campbell HS

  • 35 – Junior Fiaui | 6-3, 210 | So. | San Jose, Calif. / Saint Francis HS

  • 42 – Matteus Ioane | 6-2, 225 | So. | Wahiawa, O‘ahu / Leilehua HS

  • 43 – Alika Cavaco-Amoy | 6-0, 215 | So. | Waimanalo, O‘ahu / Punahou School

  • 47 – Kingston Costales | 5-11, 220 | Rf. | Wai‘anae, O‘ahu / Wai‘anae HS

  • 48 – Kolo Kaulula‘au | 6-0, 215 | Jr. | Kāne‘ohe, O‘ahu / Maryknoll School

  • 49 – Tasi Tadio | 5-11, 225 | So. | Wahiawa, O‘ahu / Saint Louis School

Defensive Backs (DB)

  • 0 – Jeremiah Hughes | 6-0, 195 | Jr. | Las Vegas, Nev. / Bishop Gorman HS | Michigan State

  • 1 – Caleb “C-Bo” Brown | 6-1, 170 | Sr. | Anniston, Ala. / Lithia Springs HS | Virginia Tech

  • 2 – Kona Moore | 6-0, 190 | Sr. | Kapolei, O‘ahu / Saint Louis School

  • 3 – Joenel Figueroa | 6-0, 185 | Sr. | Lawrence, Mass. / Lawrence HS | West Georgia

  • 4 – Elijah Palmer | 5-8, 180 | Sr. | Las Vegas, Nev. / Bishop Gorman HS

  • 5 – Jaylon Edmond | 5-9, 165 | So. | Long Beach, Calif. / Western HS | Wake Forest

  • 6 – Zion Allen | 6-1, 170 | Sr. | Stockton, Calif. / Manteca HS | Southern Utah

  • 13 – Elijah Gipson | 5-11, 160 | Sr. | Los Angeles, Calif. / Oaks Christian HS | Glendale CC

  • 19 – Kela Moore | 6-0, 185 | Jr. | Kapolei, O‘ahu / Campbell HS | UNLV

  • 21 – Makana Meyer | 5-9, 180 | Jr. | Waipahu, O‘ahu / Mililani HS

  • 22 – Ezekiel Rodrigues | 6-0, 185 | So. | Kāne‘ohe, O‘ahu / Mililani HS

  • 23 – Kydel Stone | 6-1, 185 | Fr. | Chandler, Ariz. / Saguaro HS

  • 24 – Kodi DeCambra | 6-0, 190 | Jr. | Honolulu, O‘ahu / Bishop Gorman HS | UNLV

  • 25 – Matagi Thompson | 6-2, 190 | Sr. | Honolulu, O‘ahu / Punahou School

  • 27 – Jahren Altura | 5-10, 175 | Fr. | Honolulu, O‘ahu / Saint Louis School

  • 29 – Kainoa Ontai | 5-11, 175 | Jr. | Manteca, Calif. / East Union HS | Modesto JC

  • 34 – Brayton Correa | 5-10, 185 | Fr. | Honolulu, O‘ahu / Bishop Gorman HS

  • 36 – Jordan Fetu | 5-10, 180 | Sr. | ‘Ewa Beach, O‘ahu / Mililani HS | Olivet Nazarene

  • 37 – Riis Weber | 6-1, 200 | Sr. | Kailua, O‘ahu / Kailua HS | Idaho State

Specialists (P / LS)

  • 33 – Jack Mowrey | LS | 6-3, 245 | Jr. | Charlotte, N.C. / Ardrey Kell HS | James Madison

  • 45 – Nick Pang | LS | 5-10, 220 | Sr. | Honolulu, O‘ahu / Punahou School

  • 43 – Gannon Miller | P | 6-1, 175 | Fr. | Boise, Idaho / Air Force Prep

  • 47 – Gehrig Heil | P | 6-1, 205 | Fr. | Phoenix, Ariz. / Arcadia HS | Texas

  • 98 – Sean Olvera-Harle | P | 6-0, 210 | Sr. | San Juan Capistrano, Calif. / St. Margaret’s Episcopal | Saddleback College

Helpless Hawai’i offense falters in home opener against UNLV

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Sep 5, 2026

HONOLULU – September sadness. The University of Hawai’i football team saw the good vibes of the offseason slither away on Saturday evening, falling 21-6 to conference rival UNLV (1-1, 1-0 Mountain West) inside Clarence T.C. Ching Complex after a...

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HONOLULU — The University of Hawaiʻi women’s soccer team continued its strong run of form Thursday, scoring three times in the second half to defeat New Mexico State, 3-0, at the UH Lower Campus Field. The Rainbow Wahine improved to 3-3 on the...

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Mana Wahine: Hawaii Softball shortstop Milan Ah Yat

Mana Wahine: Hawaii Softball shortstop Milan Ah Yat

Feb 2, 2026

Photo Credit: HSRN

Mana Wahine: Hawaii Softball shortstop Milan Ah Yat

BY PAUL BRECHT | HONOLULU
PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 2, 2026

HONOLULU – Being a successful athlete in the Ah Yat family is nothing new.

University of Hawai’i junior shortstop Milan Ah Yat is the daughter of a former pro baseball player, the niece of a University of Montana athletics Hall of Famer and granddaughter of a Linfield University athletics Hall of Famer.

As if her high school resume didn’t already speak for itself, Ah Yat has continued that line of success in athletics after enjoying a strong first season back in the islands in 2025, earning All-Big West honorable mention recognition after starting all 53 games for the Rainbow Wahine and hitting .277 with five home runs, seven doubles and 28 runs batted in.

She was even better in clutch moments, delivering a trio of walk-off hits over the course of her sophomore campaign, including a two-run homer against Utah Tech in the bottom of the eighth inning to finish the 2025 Spring Fling on a high note for Hawai’i.

Ah Yat credits her dad for her pursuit of softball at a higher level. The daughter of former University of Hawai’i baseball left-handed pitcher and Pittsburgh Pirates minor leaguer Paul Ah Yat, the junior can’t remember many times that she had the ability to play on a diamond that her father wasn’t pushing her to use it.

“My dad had me playing tee ball since I could pick up a bat,” said Ah Yat, who is the middle of three siblings. “Naturally, my dad just wanted to put me in baseball. So, I played baseball until middle school, and I took a break … I joined the high school softball team at UH Lab, the Pac-Five team, and finally after that, I got more into [focusing on] softball.”

That focus helped her to an elite prep career on the diamond, leading Pac-Five to the ILH Division II title as a junior and the Division II HHSAA state championship as a senior while winning league Player of the Year honors in both seasons.

Playing for the Pac-Five program brought a variety of challenges that were a bit unusual for many high school athletes. Made up of players from a variety of schools, Ah Yat and her teammates made a habit of carpooling to the different fields that were available for the group to practice at each day.

With different girls coming from all over with a variety of differing day-to-day activities, Ah Yat tried to help bring the team closer together in the limited time that they got with each other and got to develop her leadership skills all throughout her high school career.

The four-year letterwinner in softball recalled that goal going smoothest in her high school junior and senior seasons, not-so-coincidentally the two best seasons that the team enjoyed on the diamond in her tenure.

“Having all of those girls there with me definitely contributed to my individual success as well,” Ah Yat said of teammates from high school. “Having all of that support and everyone being one [was so important].”

Ah Yat spent her college freshman season away from the islands, originally committing to Loyola Marymount (CA) with eyes on an experience away from Hawai’i. The year was an enjoyable experience for Ah Yat, who spoke glowingly of her time at the school, but saw the two-time ILH Player of the Year appear in a muted role with just 17 games played and nine starts.

After sitting down with her family, Ah Yat decided a change of scenery – sort of – was needed.

“We just talked about what I needed the next year and came to the conclusion that I needed to be home with my family,” said Ah Yat. “Coming home was just what God had planned for me as well, so I think all glory to Him. And thanks to my dad for helping lead me on the right way and keep me in the right mindset the whole time.”

The move paid dividends quickly as Ah Yat earned a starting job after transferring to the University of Hawai’i, helping the Rainbow Wahine to a 33-20 season and a semifinal appearance in the Big West Tournament. The 33 wins by UH were the most in a single season since 2019 when the Rainbow Wahine went 33-16.

“I’m really grateful for Coach Bob [Coolen], especially for allowing me to come home and getting an opportunity to play,” Ah Yat said about the legendary UH coach who retired at the end of the 2025 season. “Just him having faith in me to get out there and prove myself and show that I can do it, and then the fans backing me up behind that … I can’t ask for anything better.”

Ah Yat returns to a talented but different Hawai’i roster in 2026, under new leadership for the first time in over 30 years as first-year head coach Panita Thanatharn takes over at the helm for the Rainbow Wahine. Despite graduations and changing regimes, the excitement remains the same as Opening Day approaching for Ah Yat and her teammates.

“Don’t forget to come out to our first game,” A smiling Ah Yat responded when asked about any message to the fans before the season. “Our first tournament, February 5-7. Our games are free … Thank you for all your support during this season and in the past, we’re really grateful and we see the impact you make on us and our program. We’re just trying to do our best for you guys and grow.”

Hawai’i begins the Thanatharn era on Thursday, February 5 against Seattle University on the first day of the Bank of Hawai’i Paradise Classic. First pitch is scheduled for 5 p.m. HT at Rainbow Wahine Softball Stadium.

Rising Defensive Prospect Davian Whitener Commits to Hawaii

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Davian Whitener spent months weighing one of the biggest decisions of his football career. When the process finally came to an end, the feeling was a mix of excitement and relief. The Class of 2027 prospect from Desert Mountain High School has...

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