Kapolei cruises by Waipahu behind Kapahu’s record-setting night

Kapolei cruises by Waipahu behind Kapahu’s record-setting night

Aug 21, 2026

Kapolei cruises by Waipahu behind Kapahu’s record-setting night

Kapolei RB Mikey Kapahu is lifted in the end zone by Colton Maugaotega after scoring a touchdown against Waipahu. | Photo: Riley Guillermo

KAPOLEI – Rocked ‘em like a hurricane.

After seeing their season opener cancelled from the effects of Hurricane Lala, the No. 4-ranked Kapolei Hurricanes (1-0) provided a storm of their own with a dominant 50-15 victory over No. 6-ranked Waipahu (1-1) on Friday night.

Kapolei senior running back Chazz-Michael Kapahu tore up the Marauders defense, toting the rock 18 times for 223 yards rushing and three touchdowns. It set a new school record for the Hurricanes according to Hawaii Prep World’s archives, passing John Dela Rama’s 214-yard outing against Kalani in August 2003.

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Kapahu quickly turned the praise on his offensive linemen after being asked about his historic night, crediting the big men up front for creating holes and lanes for the 5-foot-8 back to take advantage of all night.

“My O-line, they made amazing blocks tonight, gave me the holes and I just hit them,” said Kapahu.

He got the action going early for the Hurricanes, ending off the Open Division squad’s first possession of the season with a one-yard score.

Kapolei quickly added on after forcing a three-and-out from Waipahu, getting a big punt return to set up the offense deep within Marauder territory before senior quarterback Jacob Ballesteros connected on a 19-yard touchdown pass to senior wideout Nikko Smith to make it a 14-0 advantage for the Hurricanes.

Smith, who holds Division I offers from the University of Hawai’i and San Jose State, led the Hurricanes with two receptions for 26 yards and the score. In all, only three different players registers catches for Kapolei.

Do-it-all ATH Zeph Salis pushed out the Kapolei lead to 21-0 after a 13-yard scoring run of his own midway through the second quarter. Waipahu finally threw a punch back to end the first half when sophomore QB Jake Garcia found senior WR Lyric Anuenue on a three-yard touchdown pass just before the break and added a two-point conversion right after to cut down the deficit, 21-8.

The Marauders looked to have found some momentum with the score before the halftime switch, starting off the second half by forcing a punt from Kapolei. Unfortunately for Waipahu, the punt ricocheted off of a returner and was recovered by the Hurricanes.

The Waipahu defense held strong again to keep it a two-score game, forcing another punt from Kapolei that was fielded cleanly by the Marauders.

Once again, untimely mistakes hurt Waipahu has Garcia tossed his lone interception of the evening on the ensuing drive and set up Kapahu’s second scoring run of the night with 4:34 left in the third quarter and Kapolei now leading 29-8.

Waipahu had one last breath of fight before the end of the third frame, seeing Arona Liaina cap off a 56-yard scoring drive with a one-yard touchdown run to make it 29-15.

Kapolei had another quick response with sophomore RB Kalani Meyers-Tuinei dashing away from the defense for a 30-yard touchdown to close out the quarter and put the game clearly into the program’s back pocket.

Kapahu cemented his status as the night’s breakout star as the clock ticked under 10 minutes left in regulation as he sprinted 63 yards to the house for his third and final touchdown of the game and sophomore RB Ryzen Macapagal took his lone carry of the evening 15 yards for a score to cap off a season-opening 50-burger from the Hurricanes.

Kapolei tallied 399 yards of total offense in the victory, getting 361 of it on the ground as the offensive line flexed up front. QB Jacob Ballesteros went just 6-of-9 passing for 38 yards and touchdown while not turning the ball over a single time for the Hurricanes.

Waipahu got an up-and-down night from Jake Garcia as the sophomore ran for his life away from a staunch Kapolei defense that sacked him three separate times and showed him plenty of pressure, seeing the 5-foot-8 gunslinger complete 15-of-26 passes for a game-best 122 yards, one touchdown and one interception.

Senior RB Rocco Silofau had 14 carries for 88 yards in the loss for the Marauders while sophomore WR Ian Tutuvanu showed off a nice rapport with Garcia as he led the way with six catches for 78 yards.

Waipahu will look to bounce right back next Friday when Farrington (0-2) visits 94 block for the Marauders’ third straight clash with an Open Division squad. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. HT.

Kapolei gets an extra day off before the potential biggest test of their season as Kamehameha-Kapālama (1-1) visits the Hurricanes on Saturday, August 29 with kickoff set for 6:30 p.m. HT.

Kapolei ATH Zeph Salis shakes off a Waipahu defender in a win over the Marauders. | Photo: Riley Guillermo

Kapolei WR Nikko Smith catches a touchdown pass over Waipahu’s Jayse Braun in the first quarter of the Hurricanes’ win over the Marauders. | Photo: Riley Guillermo

Sylvester snags Mountain West Defensive Player of the Week honors

Sylvester snags Mountain West Defensive Player of the Week honors

Oct 19, 2026

 HONOLULU – Host a block party, reap the rewards after. University of Hawai’i middle blocker Miliana Sylvester was named the Old Trapper Mountain West Women’s Volleyball Defensive Player of the Week on Monday morning after posting 22 total...

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First two week HS Football analysis and latest Lasquero rankings heading into Week 3

First two week HS Football analysis and latest Lasquero rankings heading into Week 3

Aug 17, 2026

First two week HS Football analysis and latest Lasquero rankings heading into Week 3

Mililani QB Hunter Fujikawa celebrates with RB Toa Sam after the Trojans took a late lead over Liberty (NV). | Photo Credit: Michael Lasquero, HSRN

It has been a crazy first two weeks of the season with a number of thrilling games on opening weekend followed by a slew of cancellations with Hurricane Lala affecting the state.

Because of the number of cancellations and numerous matchups featuring a Hawaii team against a team from the continent, no changes were made in my rankings between Week 2 and Week 3.

Although my Week 2 rankings were only posted on social media, I did not get a chance to put out a full rankings breakdown last week so this post will feature my thoughts recapping my thoughts on the first two weeks of the season.

1. Kamehameha (1-1)

Starting ranking: 1

Defeated No. 14 Farrington, 65-0

Lost to Orem (Utah), 16-7

This week: vs. No. 3 Kahuku Saturday

Analysis: The Warriors looked the part as the No. 1 team in the state on opening weekend with a dominant win over Farrington, while holding their own against an Orem team that boasts many top prospects on its squad. I was actually surprised at the final result against the Tigers with RB Maddox Sharrer leading the way offensively with over 100 yards of total offense while LB Iraia Manumaleuna had 10 total tackles, three for loss, to lead the defense. Turnovers ultimately hurt Kamehameha in this game with sophomore QB Loea Keopuhiwa throwing two picks — one of which was returned for the game’s opening score — but it was a necessary growing experience in pursuit of a state title for a young offense that graduated a slew of offensive starters a season ago.

2. Mililani (1-0)

Starting ranking: 2

Defeated Liberty (Nevada), 31-24

This week: vs. No. 7 Saint Louis Saturday

Analysis: The Trojans held it down for the 50th state with their dominant second-half as they outscored the visiting Patriots, 17-0, after the break to rally from a 24-14 halftime deficit. The most impressive thing about this game is players without Division I-FBS offers stepped for Mililani in this win. WR Bless Cabrera-Hopkins was the definitive star with eight receptions for 148 yards and two TDs, NT Lincoln Uiagalelei sealed the game with an interception while sophomores DB Taua Fonoti and LB Adrian Dias were everywhere defensively. You can make the argument that the Trojans should slide up to No. 1 after defeating the second-best team in Nevada, but national high school football media folks that I talk to say that Orem — although viewed as the fifth-best team in Utah — is still better than Liberty.

3. Kahuku (1-0)

Starting ranking: 4

Defeated No. 6 Saint Louis, 20-12

At No. 16 Waianae (cancelled)

This week: at No. 1 Kamehameha Saturday

Analysis: Kahuku looked strong in its season-opening win over the Crusaders, taking a 20-0 lead at halftime before playing conservative in the second half while experimenting with defensive fronts. Behind RB Blake Alo’s 117 rushing yards, the Red Raiders were able to rush for over 200 yards. QB Lucky Suguturaga also made the plays when he needed to with WR Bodhi Kaanga showing he can be the No. 1 receiving option with five receptions for 85 yards and a 30-yard TD. Junior LB Siale Reid continued to show how skilled he is with an interception, sack and forced fumble in the win over Saint Louis. The Red Raiders have a big test ahead of them this week in their ninth overall meeting with the Warriors — their first ever at Kunuiakea Stadium, per Hawaii Prep World records.

4. Kapolei (0-0)

Starting ranking: 5

At No. 18 KS-Maui (cancelled)

This week: vs. No. 6 Waipahu Friday

Analysis: The Hurricanes will be making their season-debut this weekend against an upstart Waipahu squad that is looking to defeat its second straight Open Division opponent. This matchup will be determined in the trenches with Kapolei’s offensive line boasting an edge over the Marauders’ base three-man front.

5. Punahou (1-0)

Starting ranking: 7

Defeated Roosevelt, 70-0

At No. 12 Moanalua (cancelled)

This week: vs. No. 9 Kapaa Saturday

Analysis: The Buffanblu were the highest scoring team on opening weekend with an overwhelming win over Roosevelt as RB Aaron Johnson rushed for 179 yards and four TDs on just 14 carries. The Rough Riders unfortunately should be in Division II this year so it was not a good test for Punahou before the Kapaa game, especially with the intriguing matchup against Moanalua getting wiped from the schedule. The upcoming matchup with the Warriors will give a better sense of how good the Buffanblu are.

6. Waipahu (1-0)

Starting ranking: 8

Defeated No. 3 Campbell, 40-17

This week: at No. 4 Kapolei Friday

Analysis: The Marauders definitely put the state on notice on opening weekend with their commanding win over Campbell, the team’s first since 2004. With a mix of veteran players like DB Jayboy Ganiron and LB Christopher Togiai along with newcomers WR Jayse Braun, DB Alii Togiai-Woodard and QB Jake Garcia, it should be no secret that Waipahu has established itself as the favorite to win the Division I state title. Friday’s game against Open Division opponent Kapolei doesn’t have the same emotional weight as the Cane Knife Classic did, but it does provide an opportunity for the Marauders to prove they can make the key necessary in-game adjustments. The Hurricanes’ dominant offensive line has the edge against Waipahu’s 3-4 defense, but the Marauders do have the linemen on the offensive side of the ball that can slide over for a bigger defensive front if they chose to do so.

7. Saint Louis (0-1)

Starting ranking:  6

Lost to No. 4 Kahuku, 20-12

This week: at No. 2 Mililani Saturday

Analysis: Despite the opening loss to the Red Raiders, the Crusaders showed some grit in winning the second half while not allowing a score. Sophomore QB Luke Shigeta accounted for two rushing scores while throwing for 128 yards, giving Saint Louis a performance to build off on. The defensive front also tallied four sacks proving they are an elite unit that travels well. The Crusaders have a tall task this weekend against a Mililani team riding a second-half comeback victory.

8. Campbell (0-1)

Starting ranking: 3

Lost to No. 8 Waipahu, 40-17

This week: at No. 12 Moanalua Friday

Analysis: A promising opening drive of the season that milked the clock was derailed by a penalty, uncaught backwards pass and an interception on third-and-forever. Before you know it, the Sabers were down 17-0 to Waipahu and could never recover. The final result was not good, but this was the best thing that could have happened to Campbell in a game that really doesn’t matter in the grand scheme of the Open Division championship picture. People forget that Saint Louis had late-game mental miscues in non-conference play against Kahuku and Mililani the same year the Crusaders won it all in 2024. For many on this Campbell team, that first game of the season showed what it was like to be the hunted instead of the hunters. The Sabers will have a chance to prove losing the Cane Knife was just a temporary setback when they travel to Moanalua this weekend.

9. Kapaa (0-1)

Starting ranking: 9

Lost to San Clemente (California), 23-8

This week: at No. 5 Punahou Saturday

Analysis: The Warriors mustered just 141 yards of total offense in their season opener, adding a rushing score from QB Kaitin Mundon late in the fourth quarter to avoid the shutout. Defense did its thing though with a shutout in the second half with DL Bryden Sugai-Salvador getting seven tackles and DE King Pitts getting two sacks. Kapaa has a big test this weekend traveling to take on Punahou in an afternoon tilt — but the early kickoff time shouldn’t affect the Warriors as they are accustomed to playing during the day time on the island of Kauai.

10. Konawaena (0-0)

Starting ranking: 10

Vs. No. 13 Aiea (cancelled)

This week: at Truckee (California) Friday

Analysis: A potential shootout between the Wildcats and Na Alii was wiped off the board with Hurricane Lala affecting the state. Konawaena will have to make its season debut on the road this weekend.

11. Leilehua (0-1)

Starting ranking: 11

Lost to Chaminade (California), 38-9

This week: vs. No. 13 Aiea Friday

Analysis: Despite missing some personnel, the Mules kept fighting against the Eagles and avoided the shutout in their season opener. Friday’s televised game against Aiea should give us a better sense of how good the Mules are this season.

12. Moanalua (1-0)

Starting ranking: 15

Defeated No. 12 Kailua, 41-18

Vs. No. 5 Punahou (cancelled)

This week: vs. No. 8 Campbell Friday

Analysis: Na Menehune saw a number of young players make an impression in their win over the Surfriders, with sophomore RB Titan Te’o rushing for three TDs and freshman SB Zaysten Kealoha scoring the team’s first TD of the year. Senior DE Joel Taylor was also solid with five tackles, three for loss, in the win against Kailua. Friday’s matchup against the Open Division Sabers, who are coming off a loss, will give Moanalua an opportunity to prove itself as a contender in the Division I ranks.

13. Aiea (1-0)

Starting ranking: 16

Defeated No. 13 Damien, 39-31

At No. 10 Konawaena (cancelled)

This week: at No. 11 Leilehua

Analysis: Despite dealing with injuries in the season-opener, the electric duo of QB Caizel Jesus-Kapesi and WR Cason Brooke lit up the scoreboard in Na Alii’s shootout win over Damien. The final score was a lot closer than the game indicated, with Aiea’s chew-clock offense falling prone to a trio of second-half turnovers that kept the Monarchs in it. Na Alii should have at least one starter on both the offense and defense making their season debut against Leilehua this weekend.

14. Damien (0-2)

Starting ranking: 13

Lost to No. 16 Aiea, 39-31

Lost to Capistrano Valley (California), 55-6

This week: idle

Analysis: The Monarchs showed life in the second half during their matchup against Aiea, but also showed youth in the following game against Capistrano Valley. It was also the second straight week that Damien allowed the opposing quarterback to rush for multiple touchdowns. Ultimately, the Monarchs have time to figure things out in non-league play before playing in their first ILH game at the ending of September.

15. Kailua (0-1)

Starting ranking: 12

Lost to No. 15 Moanalua, 41-18

At No. 22 KS-Hawaii (cancelled)

This week: vs. No. 16 Waianae Friday

Analysis: The Surfriders surprisingly aired it out 37 times in their season opener while running the ball just 12 times between their running backs. Senior WR Tayvin Kahele is certainly someone that you want to pass the ball after he finished with 10 receptions for 226 yards and two TDs, but he’s going to need help if the Surfriders want to stay relevant in the Open Division. Kailua will have a chance to bounce back when it hosts Waianae for its first Friday night game since 2022.

16. Waianae (1-0)

Starting ranking: 17

Defeated No. 22 KS-Hawaii, 22-16

Vs. No. 3 Kahuku (cancelled)

This week: at No. 15 Kailua Friday

Analysis: The Seariders kept their offense on the ground in their season-opening win, with sophomore RB Maximus Quon-Kaleiopu being the breakout star with 157 yards rushing and a 77-yard TD against KS-Hawaii. What made Waianae’s win even more impressive was it pitched a shutout after the first quarter to rally for a road win on the Big Island. Senior DL Titan Kia Cox Bongo was the forefront of the defensive performance with 2.5 sacks. The Seariders will try to replicate their rushing success on the road this weekend against a Kailua team that allowed four rushing scores in the opener.

17. Iolani (1-1)

Starting ranking: 19

Defeated Baldwin, 27-6

Lost to Edison (California), 41-27

This week: idle

Analysis: The most impressive thing about the Raiders so far to start the Pat Samsonas’ era is that their first score in the first two games have been via an interception return, one by senior DB Kela Briones against Baldwin and senior DB Tuaveve Sataraka against Edison. Senior RB Jadon Anzai has also proven to be a consistent back in both games, averaging 5.7 yards a carry to start 2026. Improving the run defense will be key though for Iolani to push Damien for the ILH Division I crown.

18. KS-Maui (0-0)

Starting ranking: 18

Vs. No. 4 Kapolei (cancelled)

This week: vs. Kulanihakoi Saturday

Analysis: The Warriors will be making their season debut against the Rays, a team playing in their first varsity season as a program.

19. Farrington (0-2)

Starting ranking: 14

Lost to No. 1 Kamehameha, 65-0

Lost to Villa Park (California), 55-6

This week: idle

Analysis: It’s been a rough start to 2026 for the Governors. They have a chance to recover this weekend, but it doesn’t get any easier with a road game at Waipahu to close out the month of August.

20. Nanakuli (0-1)

Starting ranking: 20

Lost to Newport Harbor (California), 41-0

This week: idle

Analysis: Despite a shutout, the Golden Hawks managed to put up 220 yards of total offense in the season opener. The bad news is the defense allowed five scores while Newport Harbor also returned an interception for a touchdown. Senior RB Cruz Montez averaged seven yards a carry in the loss and could be in line for a greater workload with the passing offense operating at a 34.4 percent completion rate.

21. Waimea (1-0)

Starting ranking: 21

Defeated Kaimuki, 67-6

At King Kekaulike (cancelled)

This week: at No. 22 KS-Hawaii Friday

Analysis: The Menehune were impressive in their win over the Bulldogs, getting five rushing scores while also rotating in three different quarterbacks to develop their passing attack. The upcoming matchup against KS-Hawaii will give Waimea a chance to defend a team that can both run and pass successfully.

22. KS-Hawaii (0-1)

Starting ranking: 22

Lost to No. 17 Waianae, 22-16

Vs. No. 15 Kailua (cancelled)

This week: vs. No. 21 Waimea

Analysis: The Warriors jumped out to a 16-6 first quarter lead against Waianae in the opener, but was unable to punch in anymore scores despite having a 100-yard rusher in Dallas Enriquez and pass catchers Iokua Toci-Hookano and Chaseton Wong both going over the century mark in receiving yards. Like Waianae did, Waimea will keep things on the ground offensively so this weekend will give KS-Hawaii a bounce back opportunity.

23. Pac-Five (1-0)

Starting ranking: 23

Vs. Kealakehe (cancelled)

Defeated Kalani, 14-8

This week: at Kaiser Saturday

Analysis: The Wolfpack deserves credit for making the most of a tough situation after seeing their opener against Kealakehe last Saturday get cancelled. With limited preparation, Pac-Five was able to defeat Kalani on an accelerated week behind the two-way performance of senior ATH Avari Zion-Branch, who turned in five catches or 77 yards while getting an interception on defense. The Wolfpack also recently added a new game this weekend against the Cougars, which could be a potential state tournament game preview.

24. Lahainaluna (0-0)

Starting ranking: 24

At Keaau (cancelled)

This week: vs. Maui Friday

Analysis: The Lunas will be making their season debut with a home game against the Sabers this weekend.

25. Kalaheo (0-0)

Starting ranking: 25

This week: at Hawaii Prep Saturday

Analysis: The Mustangs are scheduled to play their first game of the 2026 season this weekend on the Big Island against the HPA Ka Makani.

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The Radford Rams are the next team looking to move into the Top 25 after their 44-20 win over Castle during the opening weekend. Junior Colby Burgess was the breakout player for Radford with 201 rushing yards and three TDs on just 12 carries while sophomore Silas Schulz dominated on defense with nine tackles, five for loss, with two sacks and a forced fumble.

Pearl City made some waves last Friday too with a 31-12 win over Roosevelt, one year after going 0-3 against the Rough Riders in 2025. The late-addition of QB Jayden Delos Santos from Campbell definitely keeps the Chargers on the radar in the Division II picture.

Moanalua handles visiting Kailua, 41-18

Moanalua handles visiting Kailua, 41-18

Aug 8, 2026

New year, new Moanalua. Na Menehune handled visiting Kailua, last season’s Division I state champion, in convincing fashion with a 41-18 win on opening weekend Saturday night. Running back Titan Te’o was at the forefront of the victory with three...

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Waimea opens season with 67-6 rout of Kaimuki

Waimea opens season with 67-6 rout of Kaimuki

Aug 8, 2026

Waimea opened its season in dominant fashion Saturday night, cruising past visiting Kaimuki 67-6 at Hanapepe Stadium. The Menehune scored on their opening kickoff, with Kepa Pablo returning it for a touchdown to give Waimea an early lead. Waimea...

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Radford runs past Castle on opening night, 44-20

Radford runs past Castle on opening night, 44-20

Aug 7, 2026

Radford started the season off with a bang, roaring past visiting Castle, 44-20, Friday night at John E. Velasco Stadium. Running back Colby Burgess led the way for the Rams running for 201 yards and three touchdowns on just 12 carries. He scored...

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Mililani squeaks by Liberty behind Cabrera-Hopkins, big defensive 2nd half

Mililani squeaks by Liberty behind Cabrera-Hopkins, big defensive 2nd half

Aug 15, 2026

Mililani squeaks by Liberty behind Cabrera-Hopkins, big defensive 2nd half

Mililani WR Bless Cabrera-Hopkins posted career highs in receptions, yards and touchdowns on Friday night to help the Trojans take down Liberty (NV). | Photo Credit: Michael Lasquero, HSRN

 

MILILANI – Weathered the storm.

With Tropical Storm Lala approaching, the second-ranked Mililani Trojans (1-0) braved spotty conditions and opened up a highly anticipated 2026 campaign with a thrilling victory over Liberty (NV) on Friday night in the islands, 31-24.

QB Hunter Fujikawa impressed in his debut with the Trojans, completing 20-of-34 passes for 273 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions while making plays late to help rally his team from a double-digit halftime deficit.

The four-star recruit in the Class of 2028 showed a solid connection with senior receiver Bless Cabrera-Hopkins, who tallied career highs of eight catches for 148 yards and two touchdowns in his own 2026 season debut.

RB Toa Sam provided the most important touchdown of the night for the Trojans with 2:10 left to play, capping off a hardhat evening of 15 carries for 23 yards with the game-winning score.

Liberty (0-1) struck first behind the powerful running style of senior RB Ezra Sanelivi, a three-star recruit committed to BYU, as the 5’11 bruising back rumbled 56 yards for the game’s opening score. His celebration afterwards cost his team 15 yards, leading to a missed point-after try and a 6-0 lead for the visitors from the continent after 92 seconds of action.

Mililani struck right back on their own first drive of the season as Fujikawa connected with Cabrera-Hopkins on a 22-yard scoring strike to push the Trojans in front with 5:33 remaining in the opening quarter, 7-6.

The Trojans followed it up by forcing a three-and-out defensively and tacked on a second straight score as Fujikawa and the rest of the offense needed just four plays to march 58 yards and extend the lead, 14-6, as the junior QB dropped a perfect throw over the shoulder and into the hands of junior WR Shayzen Cabato-Machado for a 12-yard touchdown with under two minutes left in the first quarter.

Liberty responded in a big way in the second frame, posting 18 points with the help of an absurd and undisciplined Mililani group committing 10 first-half penalties that cost 99 yards to go into halftime leading the Trojans, 24-14.

Mililani adjusted at the midway break, mostly shut down the Liberty rushing attack that was incredibly effective in the first half while holding the Patriots without a point in the second half.

A busted coverage saw Cabrera-Hopkins find himself all alone near the end zone nearly midway through the third quarter and Fujikawa wasted little time getting him the ball for 35-yard touchdown, bringing Mililani back within a field goal with nearly 20 minutes of game time left to play.

A Liberty fumble at their own 22 gave the ball back to the Trojans with four minutes left in the third quarter, but the Patriots defense held long enough to force Mililani to settle for a 36-yard field goal from Matthew Bolibol to tie the game at 24 heading into the final 12 minutes of regulation.

The ensuing drive looked promising for Liberty after giving up a 10-point lead in the previous frame, driving 76 yards down the field and into the red zone. After the Mililani defense held strong to force a fourth-and-short, the Patriots opted to try and convert instead of kicking a go-ahead field goal from inside 25 yards out and fumbled the snap, turning the ball over for the second straight drive and remaining knotted at 24 with the Trojans.

Both teams traded punts over their next two possessions, giving the ball back to Mililani with 5:04 left to play and another shot to go back ahead for the first time since the opening minutes of the second quarter.

Fujikawa and company delivered, seeing the right-handed gunslinger deliver a perfect strike to Bless Cabrera-Hopkins on the sideline just before the pylon to set up Toa Sam’s go-ahead one-yard touchdown run with 2:10 remaining.

Mililani QB Hunter Fujikawa celebrates with RB Toa Sam after the Trojans took a late lead over Liberty (NV). | Photo Credit: Michael Lasquero, HSRN

Liberty got a boost with a 40-yard kickoff return from Selby Griego Jr., setting up a potential game-tying or go-ahead drive from the 50-yard line with exactly two minutes to play.

Then, Mililani got a boost from a big fella up front.

Senior defensive lineman Lincoln Uiagalelei perfectly read a developing screen play and picked off Liberty QB Madden Elias Dela Cruz to seal the victory for Mililani, allowing the Trojans to kneel out the rest of the clock.

Dela Cruz completed the night 4-for-10 passing for 79 yards and the interception while Selby Griego Jr. did a little bit of everything for Liberty with a touchdown, 46 passing yards, 46 receiving yards and 100 yards in punt and kick returns on the night.

Oregon commit Trison Satele led the defensive effort for Mililani, racking up nine total tackles (five solo, four assisted) on the night along with 2.0 TFLs and a quarterback hit. Brother and fellow Oregon commit Toa Satele chipped in six tackles while also registering one of the Trojans’ five pass breakups.

Taua Fonoti also quietly procured a big night, posting nine tackles (four solo, five assisted), a pass break up, a pair of forced fumbles and a fumble recovery for the Trojans.

Liberty will return to action in a few weeks against Skyridge (UT) on September 4 for the team’s home opener.

Mililani gets a date with ILH-power Saint Louis next Saturday, August 22, continuing a challenging non-league schedule before OIA Open Division play begins against Leilehua in mid-September.

Sylvester snags Mountain West Defensive Player of the Week honors

Sylvester snags Mountain West Defensive Player of the Week honors

Oct 19, 2026

 HONOLULU – Host a block party, reap the rewards after. University of Hawai’i middle blocker Miliana Sylvester was named the Old Trapper Mountain West Women’s Volleyball Defensive Player of the Week on Monday morning after posting 22 total...

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Impending storm leads to Hawaii High School Football cancellations

Impending storm leads to Hawaii High School Football cancellations

Aug 13, 2026

Impending storm leads to Hawaii High School Football cancellations

Kailua WR Tayvin Kahele celebrates a first down against Moanalua. | Photo: Riley Guillermo

With incoming Tropical Storm Lala heading towards the islands this weekend, administrators are starting to cancel high school football matchups this weekend.

The first reported cancellation was a non-league matchup between Kailua and Kamehameha-Hawai’i on the Big Island this Saturday at the Warriors’ campus in Kea’au. The Surfriders are a Oahu team.

The first mention of this cancellation was via the Kailua Football team’s Instagram account, posted on their IG Story around 9 p.m. Wednesday night. Kailua head coach Hauoli Wong confirmed the news Thursday morning.

Per a text message from a non-Oahu football head coach Thursday at 10:22 a.m.: “From what we’ve been told by our AD, DOE officials will be making a decision either this afternoon or early Friday morning as to whether sporting events will be cancelled or not this Friday and Saturday for BIIF & MIL. They want to get as much updates on the storm before making their final determination. We’re hoping for the best, but still preparing for the worst. Will keep you posted.”

As of noon Thursday, the Lahainaluna game at Kea’au High on the Big Island scheduled for Saturday has also been cancelled, per Lunas head coach Dean Rickard.

Aiea Athletic Director David Lane confirmed at 12:20 p.m. that Na Alii’s road game at Konawaena Friday night on the Big Island has been cancelled. This means all scheduled games that were to take place on the Big Island this weekend will not be played.

At 1:30 p.m., it was announced that Waimea’s trip to Maui to take on King Kekaulike on Saturday was cancelled. This is the first game outside of the Big Island to be cancelled.

The Hawai’i Department of Education announced at 2:33 p.m. Thursday that all Big Island schools would be closed from 5:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Shortly after, multiple sources confirmed to HSRN that the game featuring Pac-Five and Kealakehe (of Kailua-Kona) that was to be played Saturday at Farrington is cancelled. The Waveriders were scheduled to fly to Oahu on Saturday morning for the matchup.

Per a source close to the situation, Kamehameha’s home game against Orem of Utah has been moved to Friday at 5:30 p.m. due to the storm and weather conditions expected around the state of Hawaii on Saturday.

Kapolei’s season opener at Kamehameha-Maui Saturday has also been cancelled.

ScoringLive is reporting that the Kalani vs. Waiakea game on Friday is cancelled. As a result, the Falcons will instead play the Pac-Five Wolfpack so both Oahu teams can still get a game in.

On Friday morning, the Hawai’i Department of Education announced that all sporting events at Public School campuses scheduled for Saturday have been cancelled.

Full Weekend Schedule and game status below

THURSDAY, August 13
San Clemente at Kapaa
Punahou II at Waialua
Chaminade at Leilehua
Beaumont vs. Hilo at Pearl City

FRIDAY, August 14
Aiea at Konawaena (cancelled)
Waiakea vs. Kalani at Kaiser (cancelled)
Honokaa vs. Kohala (postponed)
–
Kalani vs. Pac-Five at Kaiser (newly created game)
Orem at Kamehameha 5:30 pm (rescheduled from Saturday)
Capistrano Valley vs. Damien at Radford
Liberty at Mililani
San Juan Hills at Castle
Newport at Nanakuli
Villa Park at Farrington

SATURDAY, August 14
Lahainaluna at Keaau (cancelled)
Waimea at King Kekaulike (cancelled)
Kapolei at Kamehameha-Maui (cancelled)
Kailua at Kamehameha-Hawaii (cancelled)
Kealakehe vs. Pac-Five at Farrington (cancelled)
Maui at Kaiser (cancelled)
Kahuku at Waianae (cancelled)
Punahou at Moanalua (cancelled)
Roosevelt at Pearl City (cancelled)
–
Edison at Iolani

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Kahuku runs wild to take down Saint Louis on opening weekend, 20-12

Kahuku runs wild to take down Saint Louis on opening weekend, 20-12

Aug 8, 2026

Kahuku runs wild to take down Saint Louis on opening weekend, 20-12

Kahuku QB Lucky Suguturaga threw a touchdown pass and ran in another in the Red Raiders win over Saint Louis. | Photo: Brian Bautista

KAHUKU – A legacy state title matchup to start the season.

In a clash of two Hawai’i high school football titans up on the North Shore, the Kahuku Red Raiders (1-0) strongarmed the Saint Louis Crusaders (0-1) on Saturday night for a 20-12 victory to begin the 2026 campaign for both squads.

Kahuku, under the leadership of new head coach David Stant, dominated in the trenches, tallying over 200 yards on the ground while junior quarterback Lucky Suguturaga added 119 passing yards and two touchdowns (1 pass, 1 rush) in the win by the Red Raiders.

Senior running back Blake Alo shouldered the load for Kahuku, taking 19 carries for 117 yards while junior running back Blazyn-Brave Nunuha tacked on nine more rushes for 55 yards and a touchdown on the ground.

Bodhi Kaanga provided breathing room before halftime with the biggest of his five catches on the night, hauling in a 30-yard pass from Suguturaga to make Kahuku’s lead 20-0 with 30 seconds left before the break. The junior totaled five catches for 85 yards in total throughout the game.

Kahuku WR Bodhi Kaanga celebrates in the end zone after a score. | Photo: Brian Bautista

That additional cushion proved important as Saint Louis shutout the Red Raiders’ offense in the second half, pulling within a single possession after sophomore quarterback Luke Shigeta’s second rushing touchdown of the night came with 2:56 left to play.

Shigeta had his fingerprints all over the offensive attack for the Crusaders, completing 14-of-29 passes for 128 yards and an interception while adding 41 yards and two rushing scores on 10 attempts in the loss.

Junior running back Tenari Fuamatu-Ma’afala led Saint Louis with 55 yards on the ground, rushing a team-high 13 times. Freshman wide receiver Zayden Bocoboc paced the Crusaders with 63 yards across four catches. No other player had more than 18 yards receiving in the loss.

Saint Louis will re-group next week with a bye, returning to action on August 22 with another challenging OIA Open Division trip to Mililani awaiting them. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. HT.

Kahuku hopes to keep the momentum rolling into next Saturday, August 15 when the Red Raiders travel to Waianae for the second leg of a five-game non-league test. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. HT.

Kahuku LB Siale Reid had a sack, forced a fumble and recorded an interception in the Red Raiders win over Saint Louis. | Photo: Brian Bautista

Hawai‘i Looks to Build Momentum Against UTEP Following Bye Week

Hawai‘i Looks to Build Momentum Against UTEP Following Bye Week

Nov 4, 2026

Rainbow Warriors seek consecutive wins for the first time this season as former WAC rivals meet for the first time in 22 yearsComing off its most complete performance of the season and a much-needed bye week, Hawai‘i returns to action Saturday...

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Brooke’s big debut helps Aiea hold off Damien in season opener, 39-31

Brooke’s big debut helps Aiea hold off Damien in season opener, 39-31

Aug 8, 2026

Brooke’s big debut helps Aiea hold off Damien in season opener, 39-31

Aiea WR Cason Brooke breaks free for a big gain against Damien. | Photo: CJ Caraang

PEARL CITY – There are first impressions, and there’s the debut for Aiea’s newest star wide receiver.

The 2026 high school football season continued an entertaining opening weekend on Saturday night as Aiea Na Ali’i (1-0) rode the right arm of sophomore quarterback Caizel Jesus-Kapesi and the playmaking chops of senior wideout Cason Brooke to a thrilling 39-31 victory over the Damien Monarchs (0-1) in a non-league battle at Pearl City High School.

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Despite the graduation of top target and 2025 OIA Division I Offensive Player of the Year Hiki Kim Choy-Keb Ah Lo, Aiea’s Jesus-Kapesi showed no signs of a sophomore slump as he flirted with a new career high to begin his second varsity campaign, dialing up the Aiea offense for 489 yards through the air – just six yards shy of his varsity-best 495 yards against Nanakuli last October.

Aiea QB Caizel Jesus-Kapesi leaps over a Damien defender in the second half. | Photo: CJ Caraang

The 6-foot-2 gunslinger racked up five touchdowns on the night, tossing three and running for two more while also getting tagged for a pair of interceptions by the Damien defense.

He quickly found a new favorite receiver in King Kekaulike transfer Cason Brooke, a 5-foot-7 wideout that tallied 11 receptions for 246 yards and a touchdown in his first game with Na Ali’I on Saturday night.

Kila Spencer added 10 catches for 114 yards for Aiea, joining his fellow senior receiver as the only pass catchers to eclipse the century mark of receiving yards for Na Ali’i.

Aiea also got a boost from the backfield as senior Legend Byrd-Tauala totaled 96 yards of offense (58 receiving, 38 rushing) and a pair of touchdowns before exiting with an injury in the second half.

Damien didn’t back down despite the potent Aiea offense, posting 457 yards of total offense themselves as sophomore QB Tonga Tuifua made his first varsity start.

The younger brother of Alani “AJ” Tuifua, a four-year starter at signal caller for the Monarchs, Tonga introduced himself with an eye-popping 371 passing yards and five touchdowns in his first action as the starter.

It was a boom-or-bust night for the sophomore, completing 15-of-34 pass attempts and throwing two interceptions while still connecting on a multitude of explosive plays deep down the field.

Senior playmaker Wyatt Ho-Williams was on the receiving end of four of those explosives, racking up 144 yards through the air and one of Tuifua’s five touchdown passes. He also was the second-leading rusher for the Monarchs despite just one carry, an 18-yard fake punt scramble on the team’s opening drive.

Fellow senior Blazyn Toafe also reached triple digits in the season opener, totaling 110 yards on six catches for Damien. Junior wide receiver Ku’ukehameke’oli Steinhoff had two catches, both for touchdowns, and 44 total yards on the night for the defending Division I ILH champions.

The Monarchs trailed from the moment the opening drive by Na Ali’i finished but remained within a score for the majority of the evening while the two offenses traded blows. Trailing by eight with under five minutes left in the fourth quarter, Damien drove the length of the field to get to the doorstep of the endzone but saw the comeback effort end on third-and-goal as Tuifua tossed his second interception of the young season.

Damien will look to flush the loss and bounce back next weekend, taking on Capistrano Valley (CA) on Friday, August 14 at Radford High School. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. HT.

A strong non-league schedule continues for Aiea next weekend as well, traveling to face BIIF powerhouse Konawaena on Friday, August 14 with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m. HT.

 

Aiea’s Robert Guest comes away with an interception in the end zone against Damien. | Photo: CJ Caraang

Aiea defensive lineman Jeti Edrado came away with two first-half sacks for the Na Alii. | Photo: CJ Caraang

Aiea QB Caizel Jesus-Kapesi prepares to throw a ball against Damien. | Photo: CJ Caraang

Sylvester snags Mountain West Defensive Player of the Week honors

Sylvester snags Mountain West Defensive Player of the Week honors

Oct 19, 2026

 HONOLULU – Host a block party, reap the rewards after. University of Hawai’i middle blocker Miliana Sylvester was named the Old Trapper Mountain West Women’s Volleyball Defensive Player of the Week on Monday morning after posting 22 total...

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