About the Patriots drafting Jake Ingram, Steve DeOssie (who was a long-snapper in the NFL and whose son is the long-snapper for the Giants) said:
"Bill Belichick always had Lonie Paxton, who was one of the best in the game. (Paxton signed a free-agent contract this off-season to follow McDaniels to Denver.) That was one basic headache he could cross off the list. He never had to worry with Lonie Paxton about a bad snap. It just wasn’t going to happen. So that’s one facet of the game that is taken care of, and that’s a great thing as a coach. You can put more time, energy and effort into concentrating on other things." (Marblehead Reporter)
http://www.wickedlocal.com/marblehead/news/x845557234/Former-NFL-star-talk-radio-host-heads-to-Marblehead-on-a-Mission
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Erik "E-Rob" Robinson will be at the Bills' rookie camp
About getting the tryout with the Bills, Robinson said:
"It's cool. It's an opportunity. I feel blessed. I'm going to try and make the best of it." (HA)
HA Note: "If Robinson does well, he might earn a free-agent contract."
HA Note: "He will join Solomon Elimimian at the Bills' rookie camp, starting tomorrow."
HA Note: "Former UH receiver C.J. Hawthorne was on the Bills' practice squad last season."
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090430/SPORTS04/904300360/1049/sportsfront
"It's cool. It's an opportunity. I feel blessed. I'm going to try and make the best of it." (HA)
HA Note: "If Robinson does well, he might earn a free-agent contract."
HA Note: "He will join Solomon Elimimian at the Bills' rookie camp, starting tomorrow."
HA Note: "Former UH receiver C.J. Hawthorne was on the Bills' practice squad last season."
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090430/SPORTS04/904300360/1049/sportsfront
JD looking to reduce coaching salaries at UH
About reducing coaching salaries, JD told the UH Board of Regents earlier this year:
"Over time, as coaches change, we can lower salary amounts." (HA)
Asked by the board if that was realistic given the marketplace, JD said:
"that's the reality. That would be my approach." (HA)
Asked about his plan to reduce salaries, JD said yesterday:
"Philosophically, I believe they have to earn a decent base pay (with) incentives for performance. That's going to be my plan going forward." (HA)
HA Note: "The women's basketball position has a salary range of $118,488 to $209,784 and the men's volleyball opening a range of $53,820 to $107,640. Former women's basketball coach Jim Bolla was believed to be making more than $120,000 and ex-men's volleyball coach Mike Wilton in the neighborhood of $100,000."
Asked what salaries UH is aiming for with their new hires in women's basketball and men's volleyball, JD said:
"I can't say more than that because it will depend upon what happens in negotiations." (HA)
HA Note: "A person familiar with the process said some prominent assistant and associate head coaches, including at least two from the Big 12 Conference, have looked into the women's basketball position."
Refusing to reveal how many people have applied for either coaching position, a UH spokesman said:
"The number of applicants is confidential information." (HA)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090430/COLUMNISTS06/904300363/1142&template=UHSports
"Over time, as coaches change, we can lower salary amounts." (HA)
Asked by the board if that was realistic given the marketplace, JD said:
"that's the reality. That would be my approach." (HA)
Asked about his plan to reduce salaries, JD said yesterday:
"Philosophically, I believe they have to earn a decent base pay (with) incentives for performance. That's going to be my plan going forward." (HA)
HA Note: "The women's basketball position has a salary range of $118,488 to $209,784 and the men's volleyball opening a range of $53,820 to $107,640. Former women's basketball coach Jim Bolla was believed to be making more than $120,000 and ex-men's volleyball coach Mike Wilton in the neighborhood of $100,000."
Asked what salaries UH is aiming for with their new hires in women's basketball and men's volleyball, JD said:
"I can't say more than that because it will depend upon what happens in negotiations." (HA)
HA Note: "A person familiar with the process said some prominent assistant and associate head coaches, including at least two from the Big 12 Conference, have looked into the women's basketball position."
Refusing to reveal how many people have applied for either coaching position, a UH spokesman said:
"The number of applicants is confidential information." (HA)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090430/COLUMNISTS06/904300363/1142&template=UHSports
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Davone Bess' hopes to run the Wildcat ended with the Pat White draft
SFSS = South Florida Sun-Sentinel
About how the drafting of Pat White hurts his hopes to run the Wildcat (Bess was a QB in high school), Davone Bess said:
"I was always ready. But we're lucky to get a great athlete who plays like that and could take our game to another level.'' (SFSS)
Relating to undrafted free agents like NMSU's Chris Williams and Tulsa's Brennan Morris who are going to Miami's rookie minicamp this weekend, Bess said:
"I just kept my eyes on the prize and understand that this is an opportunity and I wanted to make the best of it. Never take no for an answer. I stayed humble and focused on what I had to get done.'' (SFSS)
SFSS Note: "Bess got it done all right, finishing with 54 catches, the second most by an undrafted college free agent receiver behind Jets' Wayne Chrebet, who had 66 in 1995."
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/sfl-bess-wildcat-pat-white-dolphins-draft-042909,0,2245590.story
About how the drafting of Pat White hurts his hopes to run the Wildcat (Bess was a QB in high school), Davone Bess said:
"I was always ready. But we're lucky to get a great athlete who plays like that and could take our game to another level.'' (SFSS)
Relating to undrafted free agents like NMSU's Chris Williams and Tulsa's Brennan Morris who are going to Miami's rookie minicamp this weekend, Bess said:
"I just kept my eyes on the prize and understand that this is an opportunity and I wanted to make the best of it. Never take no for an answer. I stayed humble and focused on what I had to get done.'' (SFSS)
SFSS Note: "Bess got it done all right, finishing with 54 catches, the second most by an undrafted college free agent receiver behind Jets' Wayne Chrebet, who had 66 in 1995."
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/sfl-bess-wildcat-pat-white-dolphins-draft-042909,0,2245590.story
Update on the Warriors from Mac
About how the team will continue its conditioning program until final exams to maintain the momentum from the spring, Mac said:
"I think this is really the push time. We have two more weeks to get better and we're going to use every second and every day we have. This is where the work escalates. ... They want to win the WAC championship and to do that you have to work to get better." (HSB)
About how 10 of the 30 or so players that will be cut may be invited to join the team when classes start in the fall, Mac said:
"It's really tough because there wasn't a nonathlete on the field." (HSB)
Happy that they had relatively few injuries, Mac said:
"I think it's because of how hard they worked in the offseason." (HSB)
About how Inoke did well at RB in the spring, Mac said:
"Inoke showed he can be a running back, that was something we really wanted to look at." (HSB)
About their inexperienced D, Mac said:
"Defensively, the guys we have are good athletes and they ran well and tackled, they're just inexperienced. We're a little thin. It's going to help to get Blaze (Soares) and Paipai (Falemalu) back with the linebackers and we're getting a couple of guys who can help in the secondary." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090429_UHs_focus_shifts_to_fall.html
"I think this is really the push time. We have two more weeks to get better and we're going to use every second and every day we have. This is where the work escalates. ... They want to win the WAC championship and to do that you have to work to get better." (HSB)
About how 10 of the 30 or so players that will be cut may be invited to join the team when classes start in the fall, Mac said:
"It's really tough because there wasn't a nonathlete on the field." (HSB)
Happy that they had relatively few injuries, Mac said:
"I think it's because of how hard they worked in the offseason." (HSB)
About how Inoke did well at RB in the spring, Mac said:
"Inoke showed he can be a running back, that was something we really wanted to look at." (HSB)
About their inexperienced D, Mac said:
"Defensively, the guys we have are good athletes and they ran well and tackled, they're just inexperienced. We're a little thin. It's going to help to get Blaze (Soares) and Paipai (Falemalu) back with the linebackers and we're getting a couple of guys who can help in the secondary." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090429_UHs_focus_shifts_to_fall.html
Solomon Elimimian named Jack Bonham Award winner
HA Note: "Warrior football player Solomon Elimimian and Rainbow Wahine track and field "Germanator" Annett Wichmann, two of the most prolific athletes in University of Hawai'i history, were named Jack Bonham Award winners at last night's Scholar-Athlete Dinner at the Stan Sheriff Center. The award is given annually to the top male and female senior student-athlete who "best exemplifies the ideals for which Jack Bonham stood for in the areas of athletic excellence, academic achievement, public service, leadership and character." Bonham, former UH assistant athletics director, died in a 1974 plane crash."
About how he had a difficult freshman year because he was homesick, Sol said:
"Hawai'i is totally different than South Central L.A.. I would spend $400 to come home for two or three days, that's how homesick I was. But now I'm already starting to miss Hawai'i — how the people embraced me and treated me and my family ... that's something I'll always be grateful for. It will always have a place in my heart." (HA)
Wishing he enjoyed his college years more, Sol said:
"I remember all the guys telling me I was going to miss college, make the most of it, enjoy it, have fun. I didn't realize that. I was so anxious to move to the next stage in my life so I didn't take heed. The big thing I'd tell somebody now is to enjoy the time you have and understand it's going to come to an end, and when it does you want to look back and know you used that time well." (HA)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090429/SPORTS02/904290392/1312&template=UHSports
About how he had a difficult freshman year because he was homesick, Sol said:
"Hawai'i is totally different than South Central L.A.. I would spend $400 to come home for two or three days, that's how homesick I was. But now I'm already starting to miss Hawai'i — how the people embraced me and treated me and my family ... that's something I'll always be grateful for. It will always have a place in my heart." (HA)
Wishing he enjoyed his college years more, Sol said:
"I remember all the guys telling me I was going to miss college, make the most of it, enjoy it, have fun. I didn't realize that. I was so anxious to move to the next stage in my life so I didn't take heed. The big thing I'd tell somebody now is to enjoy the time you have and understand it's going to come to an end, and when it does you want to look back and know you used that time well." (HA)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090429/SPORTS02/904290392/1312&template=UHSports
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Warrior Notes from the Advertiser
About not being drafted, Sol (who will be at the Bills' rookie camp this week) said:
"I don't have time to think about that. I'm getting ready for this workout." (HA)
About how Sol might get a free-agent contract if he does well enough, his agent Wynn Silberman said:
"They're going to take a real strong look at him. We'll see what happens." (HA)
About having to earn a free agent contract, Sol said:
"Nothing has been easy for me. I've had to prove myself my entire life. This is another challenge." (HA)
HA Note: "Another former UH linebacker, Adam Leonard, still had not received a firm free-agent offer."
Marcus Robinson (Titans' defensive secondary coach) said that he expects Ryan Mouton to contribute this season and then compete for a:
"starting job in 2010." (HA)
About Mouton's hamstring injury, Robinson said:
"We're not worried about that." (HA)
About why he strongly recommended drafting Mouton, Robinson said:
"He has great burst, and he's tough. He plays bigger than his size. He's a vicious hitter. He makes plays. I think he's going to make as much of an impact for us as our first pick." (HA)
HA Note: "The Titans have two aggressive cornerbacks, but Nick Harper will be 34 this year."
HA Note: "Spring training ended with the past Saturday's Warrior Bowl at Aloha Stadium. But the offseason conditioning program resumes next week, with workouts set for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday."
Mac said that their conditioning program will take a break for a week for final exams:
"then we'll start the summer workouts." (HA)
HA Note: 'McMackin and his assistant coaches have finalized the 105-player roster for training camp. By meeting the NCAA roster limit, about 30 players who practiced this spring will not be invited to training camp, which starts Aug. 3."
About telling the players that they are cut during meetings with their position coaches this week, Mac said:
"It's really tough. It's the toughest thing about the job. You're breaking a guy's heart. But it comes down to a numbers game." (HA)
HA Note: "The roster may expand Aug. 24, the first day of UH's fall semester. McMackin said about 10 players will be added. McMackin said his staff is crafting "starting points" — a tentative depth chart. Greg Alexander will be listed as the No. 1 quarterback. Running backs Inoke Funaki, who started six games at quarterback last season, and Leon Wright-Jackson will be "bracketed" at No. 1. The No. 1 offensive line is this: left tackle Aaron Kia, left guard Ray Hisatake, center John Estes, right guard Raphael Ieru and right tackle Laupepa Letuli."
HA Note: "Chris Williams will be the Warriors' video coordinator, succeeding Ryan Biesemeyer, who accepted a job as an assistant coach at Texas Lutheran. Williams is a former UH linebacker. He is engaged to former UH softball player Kaulana Gould."
"I don't have time to think about that. I'm getting ready for this workout." (HA)
About how Sol might get a free-agent contract if he does well enough, his agent Wynn Silberman said:
"They're going to take a real strong look at him. We'll see what happens." (HA)
About having to earn a free agent contract, Sol said:
"Nothing has been easy for me. I've had to prove myself my entire life. This is another challenge." (HA)
HA Note: "Another former UH linebacker, Adam Leonard, still had not received a firm free-agent offer."
Marcus Robinson (Titans' defensive secondary coach) said that he expects Ryan Mouton to contribute this season and then compete for a:
"starting job in 2010." (HA)
About Mouton's hamstring injury, Robinson said:
"We're not worried about that." (HA)
About why he strongly recommended drafting Mouton, Robinson said:
"He has great burst, and he's tough. He plays bigger than his size. He's a vicious hitter. He makes plays. I think he's going to make as much of an impact for us as our first pick." (HA)
HA Note: "The Titans have two aggressive cornerbacks, but Nick Harper will be 34 this year."
HA Note: "Spring training ended with the past Saturday's Warrior Bowl at Aloha Stadium. But the offseason conditioning program resumes next week, with workouts set for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday."
Mac said that their conditioning program will take a break for a week for final exams:
"then we'll start the summer workouts." (HA)
HA Note: 'McMackin and his assistant coaches have finalized the 105-player roster for training camp. By meeting the NCAA roster limit, about 30 players who practiced this spring will not be invited to training camp, which starts Aug. 3."
About telling the players that they are cut during meetings with their position coaches this week, Mac said:
"It's really tough. It's the toughest thing about the job. You're breaking a guy's heart. But it comes down to a numbers game." (HA)
HA Note: "The roster may expand Aug. 24, the first day of UH's fall semester. McMackin said about 10 players will be added. McMackin said his staff is crafting "starting points" — a tentative depth chart. Greg Alexander will be listed as the No. 1 quarterback. Running backs Inoke Funaki, who started six games at quarterback last season, and Leon Wright-Jackson will be "bracketed" at No. 1. The No. 1 offensive line is this: left tackle Aaron Kia, left guard Ray Hisatake, center John Estes, right guard Raphael Ieru and right tackle Laupepa Letuli."
HA Note: "Chris Williams will be the Warriors' video coordinator, succeeding Ryan Biesemeyer, who accepted a job as an assistant coach at Texas Lutheran. Williams is a former UH linebacker. He is engaged to former UH softball player Kaulana Gould."
Monday, April 27, 2009
Mel Kiper says that David Veikune could provide the pass rush the Browns need
ABJ = Akron Beacon Journal
ABJ Note: "The Browns' pass rush tied for 30th last season with 17 sacks, yet the Browns did not appear to pick up major help. But Kiper believes that could come from Hawaii defensive end David Veikune, their third pick in the second round who totaled 18 sacks in three years."
About how Veikune could provide the pass rush the Browns need, Mel Kiper said:
''Don't underestimate him. He has a chance to be a very good pass rusher.'' (ABJ)
http://www.ohio.com/sports/browns/43822097.html
ABJ Note: "The Browns' pass rush tied for 30th last season with 17 sacks, yet the Browns did not appear to pick up major help. But Kiper believes that could come from Hawaii defensive end David Veikune, their third pick in the second round who totaled 18 sacks in three years."
About how Veikune could provide the pass rush the Browns need, Mel Kiper said:
''Don't underestimate him. He has a chance to be a very good pass rusher.'' (ABJ)
http://www.ohio.com/sports/browns/43822097.html
Bill Belichick praised Jake Ingram
Praising Jake Ingram, Bill Belichick said:
"He's an athletic guy, a little bit smaller than some of the snappers in the league, but maybe a little bit more athletic than some of the snappers in the league. Experienced guy, he can block, he can cover pretty well. His snaps are accurate and they have good velocity. I think that he'll be competitive for that position. We felt like he was a top player at his position in the draft." (Boston Globe)
"He's an athletic guy, a little bit smaller than some of the snappers in the league, but maybe a little bit more athletic than some of the snappers in the league. Experienced guy, he can block, he can cover pretty well. His snaps are accurate and they have good velocity. I think that he'll be competitive for that position. We felt like he was a top player at his position in the draft." (Boston Globe)
Ryan Mouton and Jake Ingram drafted, other Warriors agree to free agent deals
About being picked by the Titans in the 3rd round (94th overall), Ryan Mouton said:
"I'm back with them." (HA)
About how he was raised in Houston and was "8 or 9" when the Houston Oilers left for Tennessee, Mouton said:
"You always root for the hometown team. Even though we're big Cowboy fans in my house, when the Oilers played, we rooted for those guys. When they moved to Tennessee, I still followed those guys." (HA)
HA Note: "Mouton had private workouts with about a half-dozen teams. The past Friday, the Titans and Tampa Bay Buccaneers watched Mouton work out at his alma mater, Katy High School. After that, a coach from the Titans told Mouton: "You're my guy." Saturday, Mouton was told by Tennessee reporters that he would be taken with the 94th overall pick. When the 93rd selection was on the clock, Mouton received the call. He was asked: "How would you like to come out and be a Tennessee Titan?" His expression sparked a loud celebration among the 25 guests in his house."
About how the people in his house reacted when he got the call from the Titans, Mouton said:
"Everybody went crazy. It's a great feeling. I couldn't be in a better place." (HA)
As it came closer to pick 94 in the draft, Mouton said that he was:
"holding my breath." (HSB)
About the call from the Titans, Mouton said:
"They called and asked how'd I like to be a Tennessee Titan. I was overwhelmed. I really didn't know what to think." (HSB)
About how his family is in Houston and will get to watch him play, Mouton said:
"(Tennessee's) not too far from Houston and we play the Texans twice a year, so my family will get a chance to watch me at home. The Tennessee Titans used to be the Houston Oilers, so they're still kind of the hometown team." (HSB)
About how he was preparing for a nap at his Mililani home when he received a call from Scott O'Brien, New England's special-teams coordinator, Ingram said:
"He was kind of playing with me. He told me, 'How are you doing?' I said, 'I'm good.' It was like that for about four minutes. Then he asked, 'Can you play in the cold? Do you want to play here?' I was like, 'yeah, yeah.' " (HA)
HA Note: "Then O'Brien said somebody wanted to speak. O'Brien handed the phone to Bill Belichick, the Patriots' head coach. Belichick said: "Welcome to the Patriots."
About hearing from Bill Belichick, Ingram said:
"I was star-struck. Now it's NFL time, you have to get over that, and get to work." (HA)
About his phone call with Belichick, Ingram, said:
"He said, 'We're about to turn your name in and welcome to the New England Patriots.' I'm trying to listen and just then everybody in my house started yelling and screaming." (HSB)
HA Note: "Ingram praised former UH head coach June Jones, who promised a scholarship if Ingram would move from defensive end to long-snapper. Ingram agreed, but often tried to sneak into defensive meetings. Finally, Ingram accepted his role, becoming one of the most accurate long-snappers in the country."
About how he never imagined that he would be drafted, Ingram said:
"I thought if you do good at this, you can get a free-agent deal. It would be like walking on to the NFL." (HA)
"I thought if I got good at long snapping I might be able to get into a camp. For this to happen is unbelievable." (HSB)
HA Note: "Ingram, who was invited to the NFL combine, impressed scouts with his accuracy and athletic ability. At Pro Day, the Cincinnati Bengals' special-teams coach supervised Ingram's workouts. O'Brien, meanwhile, watched from a distance, never letting Ingram know he was in attendance. The Patriots, poker players in NFL scouting, were seeking to replace Lonie Paxton, who signed with the Denver Broncos."
Thanking JJ, Ingram said:
"I want to thank coach Jones. If it weren't for him, I don't know what I would be doing now." (HA)
About how the Patriots want him to gain weight (he weighed 230 pounds at the combine and at UH's Pro Day), Ingram said:
"They told me I'd better show up at close to 240. I'm going to eat right now." (HA)
About New England drafting Ingram, Ingram's agent Wynn Silberman said:
"As soon as the Patriots picked him, I got a text from another team. It was a four-letter word." (HSB)
Josh Leonard said that while watching the draft come to an end:
"it got a little tense." (HA)
Josh said that the Houston Texans presented:
"the best opportunity." (HA)
HA Note: "Leonard drew interest from 20 teams after bench pressing 225 pounds 41 times at Pro Day and running the 40-yard dash twice in under 5 seconds."
HA Note: "Leonard will play the three-shade (defensive tackle) in the 4-3 scheme. Because the Texans do not have a rookie camp, he reports May 15 for a mini-camp."
HA Note: "Dowling played one season at UH after transferring from Oregon. His size (6 feet 1 7/8) and speed (4.5 seconds in the 40) attracted the Cardinals, who were seeking big corners. He is awaiting the paperwork, but he already has accepted the offer. Linebacker Solomon Elimimian, meanwhile, was mulling offers from the Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions and Buffalo Bills last night."
HSB Note: "This is how bad it is for Elimimian: The Lions told his agent they'd get back to him today. The Lions."
About how the scout rely on numbers instead of production in college, Sol's agent Wynn Silberman said:
"A lot of scouts hide behind numbers rather than stepping forward and trying to evaluate talent. They're protecting their jobs, and it's easier to defend yourself if you point at numbers." (HSB)
HSB Note: "And those numbers are 40 times and size, not hundreds of tackles in college."
HSB Note: "BESS WENT UNDRAFTED last year, also deemed too slow by the scouts. But it worked out for the slot receiver, as he landed with a team that really wanted him, the Miami Dolphins. Silberman hopes he can do for Elimimian what Kenny Zuckerman did for Bess."
About finding the right team for Sol, Wynn Silberman said:
"It might take some time to put him where he's in position to make a roster than just place him on any team." (HSB)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090427/SPORTS0201/904270350/1312&template=UHSports
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090427_mouton_3_others_with_isle_ties_drafted.html
http://www.starbulletin.com/columnists/furtherreview/20090427_further_review.html
"I'm back with them." (HA)
About how he was raised in Houston and was "8 or 9" when the Houston Oilers left for Tennessee, Mouton said:
"You always root for the hometown team. Even though we're big Cowboy fans in my house, when the Oilers played, we rooted for those guys. When they moved to Tennessee, I still followed those guys." (HA)
HA Note: "Mouton had private workouts with about a half-dozen teams. The past Friday, the Titans and Tampa Bay Buccaneers watched Mouton work out at his alma mater, Katy High School. After that, a coach from the Titans told Mouton: "You're my guy." Saturday, Mouton was told by Tennessee reporters that he would be taken with the 94th overall pick. When the 93rd selection was on the clock, Mouton received the call. He was asked: "How would you like to come out and be a Tennessee Titan?" His expression sparked a loud celebration among the 25 guests in his house."
About how the people in his house reacted when he got the call from the Titans, Mouton said:
"Everybody went crazy. It's a great feeling. I couldn't be in a better place." (HA)
As it came closer to pick 94 in the draft, Mouton said that he was:
"holding my breath." (HSB)
About the call from the Titans, Mouton said:
"They called and asked how'd I like to be a Tennessee Titan. I was overwhelmed. I really didn't know what to think." (HSB)
About how his family is in Houston and will get to watch him play, Mouton said:
"(Tennessee's) not too far from Houston and we play the Texans twice a year, so my family will get a chance to watch me at home. The Tennessee Titans used to be the Houston Oilers, so they're still kind of the hometown team." (HSB)
About how he was preparing for a nap at his Mililani home when he received a call from Scott O'Brien, New England's special-teams coordinator, Ingram said:
"He was kind of playing with me. He told me, 'How are you doing?' I said, 'I'm good.' It was like that for about four minutes. Then he asked, 'Can you play in the cold? Do you want to play here?' I was like, 'yeah, yeah.' " (HA)
HA Note: "Then O'Brien said somebody wanted to speak. O'Brien handed the phone to Bill Belichick, the Patriots' head coach. Belichick said: "Welcome to the Patriots."
About hearing from Bill Belichick, Ingram said:
"I was star-struck. Now it's NFL time, you have to get over that, and get to work." (HA)
About his phone call with Belichick, Ingram, said:
"He said, 'We're about to turn your name in and welcome to the New England Patriots.' I'm trying to listen and just then everybody in my house started yelling and screaming." (HSB)
HA Note: "Ingram praised former UH head coach June Jones, who promised a scholarship if Ingram would move from defensive end to long-snapper. Ingram agreed, but often tried to sneak into defensive meetings. Finally, Ingram accepted his role, becoming one of the most accurate long-snappers in the country."
About how he never imagined that he would be drafted, Ingram said:
"I thought if you do good at this, you can get a free-agent deal. It would be like walking on to the NFL." (HA)
"I thought if I got good at long snapping I might be able to get into a camp. For this to happen is unbelievable." (HSB)
HA Note: "Ingram, who was invited to the NFL combine, impressed scouts with his accuracy and athletic ability. At Pro Day, the Cincinnati Bengals' special-teams coach supervised Ingram's workouts. O'Brien, meanwhile, watched from a distance, never letting Ingram know he was in attendance. The Patriots, poker players in NFL scouting, were seeking to replace Lonie Paxton, who signed with the Denver Broncos."
Thanking JJ, Ingram said:
"I want to thank coach Jones. If it weren't for him, I don't know what I would be doing now." (HA)
About how the Patriots want him to gain weight (he weighed 230 pounds at the combine and at UH's Pro Day), Ingram said:
"They told me I'd better show up at close to 240. I'm going to eat right now." (HA)
About New England drafting Ingram, Ingram's agent Wynn Silberman said:
"As soon as the Patriots picked him, I got a text from another team. It was a four-letter word." (HSB)
Josh Leonard said that while watching the draft come to an end:
"it got a little tense." (HA)
Josh said that the Houston Texans presented:
"the best opportunity." (HA)
HA Note: "Leonard drew interest from 20 teams after bench pressing 225 pounds 41 times at Pro Day and running the 40-yard dash twice in under 5 seconds."
HA Note: "Leonard will play the three-shade (defensive tackle) in the 4-3 scheme. Because the Texans do not have a rookie camp, he reports May 15 for a mini-camp."
HA Note: "Dowling played one season at UH after transferring from Oregon. His size (6 feet 1 7/8) and speed (4.5 seconds in the 40) attracted the Cardinals, who were seeking big corners. He is awaiting the paperwork, but he already has accepted the offer. Linebacker Solomon Elimimian, meanwhile, was mulling offers from the Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions and Buffalo Bills last night."
HSB Note: "This is how bad it is for Elimimian: The Lions told his agent they'd get back to him today. The Lions."
About how the scout rely on numbers instead of production in college, Sol's agent Wynn Silberman said:
"A lot of scouts hide behind numbers rather than stepping forward and trying to evaluate talent. They're protecting their jobs, and it's easier to defend yourself if you point at numbers." (HSB)
HSB Note: "And those numbers are 40 times and size, not hundreds of tackles in college."
HSB Note: "BESS WENT UNDRAFTED last year, also deemed too slow by the scouts. But it worked out for the slot receiver, as he landed with a team that really wanted him, the Miami Dolphins. Silberman hopes he can do for Elimimian what Kenny Zuckerman did for Bess."
About finding the right team for Sol, Wynn Silberman said:
"It might take some time to put him where he's in position to make a roster than just place him on any team." (HSB)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090427/SPORTS0201/904270350/1312&template=UHSports
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090427_mouton_3_others_with_isle_ties_drafted.html
http://www.starbulletin.com/columnists/furtherreview/20090427_further_review.html
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Interview with David Veikune in the Cleveland Leader
CL = Cleveland Leader
Asked if he thinks he'll be playing LB with the Browns, David Veikune said:
"Yeah, definitely linebacker. Wherever they need me though, that’s where I’m going to go." (CL)
Asked how his family ended up in Hawaii, Veikune said:
"Growing up, my mom was a pharmacist and to get promoted we had to move around a lot. Our final destination though was going to be Hawaii and we finally got to Hawaii and that was one of the reasons also why I chose the University of Hawaii because it’s my home and now I’m going to make Cleveland my home." (CL)
Asked about his experience at LB, Veikune said:
"At Hawaii we dropped a lot in zone coverages and things of that nature. Also, in high school I played a little bit of linebacker but it is a new position for me and I know I need to come and work extra hard to get a lot more natural in that aspect and stuff like that. It’s definitely a new position for me and I’m really excited." (CL)
Asked if he knew the Browns were interested in him, Veikune said:
"I actually met with (Eric) Mangini when I was down in California and it was a really productive meeting. I had a little dinner with him, we had room service and stuff like that, but it was a really good meeting. I really felt a connection with him." (CL)
Asked about going from the WAC to the NFL, Veikune said:
"The NFL, that’s where all the best players are. I feel like the WAC also has a lot of very productive players that come out of it, the NFL though, that’s where the top players are and I’m just honored to be one of those people now." (CL)
Asked where he was during the draft, Veikune said:
"I’m actually on a golf course (in Hawaii) right now but I’m going back home right now. I wanted to get my mind off everything, but I’ll go watch the T.V. right now." (CL)
Asked if he was surprised that he was drafted on the first day, Veikune said:
"Yeah, it’s a surprise that I had no idea where I was going to be taken, the first day or second day. I was just happy and whatever team picked me up I’m going to just work my hardest and that’s it." (CL)
Asked what type of player he was in Hawaii, Veikune said:
"I was a player that played everything, whatever the coaches needed me to play, whether it was nose guard, defensive end, and just a relentless player that doesn’t take a play off, gets to the quarterback and makes big hits." (CL)
Asked if golfing helped to get his mind off draft day, Veikune said:
"It definitely worked but this is only the second time I’ve been golfing and it wasn’t pretty good out there. I think I had my mind still thinking about the draft and stuff like that." (CL)
http://www.clevelandleader.com/node/9855
Asked if he thinks he'll be playing LB with the Browns, David Veikune said:
"Yeah, definitely linebacker. Wherever they need me though, that’s where I’m going to go." (CL)
Asked how his family ended up in Hawaii, Veikune said:
"Growing up, my mom was a pharmacist and to get promoted we had to move around a lot. Our final destination though was going to be Hawaii and we finally got to Hawaii and that was one of the reasons also why I chose the University of Hawaii because it’s my home and now I’m going to make Cleveland my home." (CL)
Asked about his experience at LB, Veikune said:
"At Hawaii we dropped a lot in zone coverages and things of that nature. Also, in high school I played a little bit of linebacker but it is a new position for me and I know I need to come and work extra hard to get a lot more natural in that aspect and stuff like that. It’s definitely a new position for me and I’m really excited." (CL)
Asked if he knew the Browns were interested in him, Veikune said:
"I actually met with (Eric) Mangini when I was down in California and it was a really productive meeting. I had a little dinner with him, we had room service and stuff like that, but it was a really good meeting. I really felt a connection with him." (CL)
Asked about going from the WAC to the NFL, Veikune said:
"The NFL, that’s where all the best players are. I feel like the WAC also has a lot of very productive players that come out of it, the NFL though, that’s where the top players are and I’m just honored to be one of those people now." (CL)
Asked where he was during the draft, Veikune said:
"I’m actually on a golf course (in Hawaii) right now but I’m going back home right now. I wanted to get my mind off everything, but I’ll go watch the T.V. right now." (CL)
Asked if he was surprised that he was drafted on the first day, Veikune said:
"Yeah, it’s a surprise that I had no idea where I was going to be taken, the first day or second day. I was just happy and whatever team picked me up I’m going to just work my hardest and that’s it." (CL)
Asked what type of player he was in Hawaii, Veikune said:
"I was a player that played everything, whatever the coaches needed me to play, whether it was nose guard, defensive end, and just a relentless player that doesn’t take a play off, gets to the quarterback and makes big hits." (CL)
Asked if golfing helped to get his mind off draft day, Veikune said:
"It definitely worked but this is only the second time I’ve been golfing and it wasn’t pretty good out there. I think I had my mind still thinking about the draft and stuff like that." (CL)
http://www.clevelandleader.com/node/9855
Quotes about David Veikune being drafted by the Cleveland Browns
About his reaction when he got the call informing him that the Browns were drafting him, David Veikune said:
"I just smiled. My dad got all emotional. My girlfriend (Rachelle Pollack) gave me a kiss. ... It's a great feeling. It's such a relief." (HA)
HA Note: "Veikune was projected to be picked anywhere between the third and fifth rounds. ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. did not have Veikune in his top 100. Neither did draft expert Gil Brandt."
About Veikune being drafted on the first day of the draft (which had 2 rounds), his agent Kenny Zuckerman said:
"I knew he had first-day potential, but that doesn't always mean a player will be picked early. There are a lot of variables." (HA)
HA Note: "On April 1, the day before UH's Pro Day in Carson, Calif., new Browns head coach Eric Mangini met with Veikune in Los Angeles. Mangini is implementing a 3-4 defense in Cleveland. The past Thursday, the Browns called, asking for all of Veikune's telephone numbers. They said they believed Veikune could fit in at both inside and outside linebacker."
About how his mother's family lives in Canton, Ohio, Veikune said:
"They'll be nearby." (HA)
HA Note: "Veikune was told he will compete at linebacker. He was ready. In January, he began training in Carson, where he worked on his footwork and hand-eye coordination. He already had the strength. He once benched 500 pounds. At the NFL Scouting Combine in February, he bench pressed 225 pounds 35 times, the fourth-highest total among the participants."
About the opportunity that Veikune has with the Browns, Zuckerman said:
"This is an amazing situation for David. We're really excited about him going that high. He had a great pre-draft process. He did everything he was asked, and he did it well. He's now reaping the rewards." (HA)
Happy that the draft process is over with for him, Veikune said:
"I'm excited that I'm going to be playing with Cleveland and relieved that this whole draft process is finally over." (HSB)
Happy that he was drafted on the first day so that he doesn't need to golf during the second day of the draft, Veikune said:
"I was thinking, 'Man, I'm going to have to golf two days in a row if I don't get picked." (HSB)
About how he spoke with Cleveland coach Eric Mangini before the draft, Veikune said:
"They definitely were one of the teams I thought where I'd go, but you never know until you get that phone call." (HSB)
HSB Note: "As the 52nd overall pick, Veikune is just the 10th former UH player to be selected in the first two rounds of the draft and the first to be chosen that early since Travis LaBoy was taken by the Tennessee Titans with the 42nd overall pick in 2004. Ashley Lelie remains the only UH player to be picked in the first round."
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090426/SPORTS04/904260378/1032/sportsfront
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090426_Veikune_Unger_get_the_call.html
"I just smiled. My dad got all emotional. My girlfriend (Rachelle Pollack) gave me a kiss. ... It's a great feeling. It's such a relief." (HA)
HA Note: "Veikune was projected to be picked anywhere between the third and fifth rounds. ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. did not have Veikune in his top 100. Neither did draft expert Gil Brandt."
About Veikune being drafted on the first day of the draft (which had 2 rounds), his agent Kenny Zuckerman said:
"I knew he had first-day potential, but that doesn't always mean a player will be picked early. There are a lot of variables." (HA)
HA Note: "On April 1, the day before UH's Pro Day in Carson, Calif., new Browns head coach Eric Mangini met with Veikune in Los Angeles. Mangini is implementing a 3-4 defense in Cleveland. The past Thursday, the Browns called, asking for all of Veikune's telephone numbers. They said they believed Veikune could fit in at both inside and outside linebacker."
About how his mother's family lives in Canton, Ohio, Veikune said:
"They'll be nearby." (HA)
HA Note: "Veikune was told he will compete at linebacker. He was ready. In January, he began training in Carson, where he worked on his footwork and hand-eye coordination. He already had the strength. He once benched 500 pounds. At the NFL Scouting Combine in February, he bench pressed 225 pounds 35 times, the fourth-highest total among the participants."
About the opportunity that Veikune has with the Browns, Zuckerman said:
"This is an amazing situation for David. We're really excited about him going that high. He had a great pre-draft process. He did everything he was asked, and he did it well. He's now reaping the rewards." (HA)
Happy that the draft process is over with for him, Veikune said:
"I'm excited that I'm going to be playing with Cleveland and relieved that this whole draft process is finally over." (HSB)
Happy that he was drafted on the first day so that he doesn't need to golf during the second day of the draft, Veikune said:
"I was thinking, 'Man, I'm going to have to golf two days in a row if I don't get picked." (HSB)
About how he spoke with Cleveland coach Eric Mangini before the draft, Veikune said:
"They definitely were one of the teams I thought where I'd go, but you never know until you get that phone call." (HSB)
HSB Note: "As the 52nd overall pick, Veikune is just the 10th former UH player to be selected in the first two rounds of the draft and the first to be chosen that early since Travis LaBoy was taken by the Tennessee Titans with the 42nd overall pick in 2004. Ashley Lelie remains the only UH player to be picked in the first round."
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090426/SPORTS04/904260378/1032/sportsfront
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090426_Veikune_Unger_get_the_call.html
Ryan Mouton was drafted by the Titans in the Third Round!
CDM = Charleston Daily Mail
HA Note: "Mouton, who is 5 feet 9 1/8 and weighs 179 pounds, was the 30th pick in the third round and 94th pick overall."
Asked if he would be used at CB, nickelback, punt/kick coverage, kickoff returner or punt returner, Ryan Mouton said:
"Whatever it is, I'm willing to do it." (HA)
“Whatever they need me to do. I am willing to go in there and work.’’ (Tennessean)
About how the Titans weren't concerned about his hamstring-slowed 40 times, Mouton said:
"They saw what I could do on tape. They never questioned my speed." (HA)
About being drafted by the Titans, Mouton said:
"Knowing I had some skills or whatever, I am glad they took notice of that. Not being able to show to everyone was kind of frustrating, but I couldn't have landed in a better spot than what I did." (CDM)
HA Note: "At the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis in February, Mouton, who is 5 feet 9, had a vertical jump of 39 1/2 inches and broad jump of 10 feet 9. He aggravated his left hamstring three-quarters of the way into the 40-yard dash, finishing in an unofficial 4.48 seconds. At the UH Pro Day in Carson, Calif., Mouton had a broad jump of 11 feet. But he again aggravated his left hamstring halfway through the 40-yard dash. He was timed in 4.42 seconds."
CDM Note: "The Titans liked the Houston native enough they sent defensive backs assistant Marcus Robertson down for a last look Friday."
CDM Note: "Mouton returned kicks and punts after transferring to Hawaii. He also has played as the fifth defensive back on the field extensively, so he will give the Titans options at returner after losing Chris Carr to Baltimore in free agency."
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090426/BREAKING02/90426008/-1
http://www.tennessean.com/article/20090426/SPORTS01/90426004/1002
http://www.dailymail.com/ap/ApSports/200904260295
HA Note: "Mouton, who is 5 feet 9 1/8 and weighs 179 pounds, was the 30th pick in the third round and 94th pick overall."
Asked if he would be used at CB, nickelback, punt/kick coverage, kickoff returner or punt returner, Ryan Mouton said:
"Whatever it is, I'm willing to do it." (HA)
“Whatever they need me to do. I am willing to go in there and work.’’ (Tennessean)
About how the Titans weren't concerned about his hamstring-slowed 40 times, Mouton said:
"They saw what I could do on tape. They never questioned my speed." (HA)
About being drafted by the Titans, Mouton said:
"Knowing I had some skills or whatever, I am glad they took notice of that. Not being able to show to everyone was kind of frustrating, but I couldn't have landed in a better spot than what I did." (CDM)
HA Note: "At the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis in February, Mouton, who is 5 feet 9, had a vertical jump of 39 1/2 inches and broad jump of 10 feet 9. He aggravated his left hamstring three-quarters of the way into the 40-yard dash, finishing in an unofficial 4.48 seconds. At the UH Pro Day in Carson, Calif., Mouton had a broad jump of 11 feet. But he again aggravated his left hamstring halfway through the 40-yard dash. He was timed in 4.42 seconds."
CDM Note: "The Titans liked the Houston native enough they sent defensive backs assistant Marcus Robertson down for a last look Friday."
CDM Note: "Mouton returned kicks and punts after transferring to Hawaii. He also has played as the fifth defensive back on the field extensively, so he will give the Titans options at returner after losing Chris Carr to Baltimore in free agency."
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090426/BREAKING02/90426008/-1
http://www.tennessean.com/article/20090426/SPORTS01/90426004/1002
http://www.dailymail.com/ap/ApSports/200904260295
Quotes from the Warrior Bowl reports
HA Note: "In UH's intrasquad Warrior Bowl yesterday at Aloha Stadium, slotback Jon Medeiros threw the go-ahead 50-yard option pass to wideout Jovonte Taylor for a touchdown to lift the Ron Lee-coached Makai to a 28-26 victory over Cal Lee-led Mauka. The game, before 3,726, marked the final day of spring training."
About the trick play Ron used with Medeiros, Cal Lee said:
"He kept his mouth quiet. He didn't tell me anything. I knew about another trick play, but he didn't run it." (HA)
HA Note: "With Mauka leading 26-22 and about 11 minutes left in the third quarter, Manoa chancellor Virginia Hinshaw suggested that Ron Lee call the trick play. Makai quarterback Bryant Moniz lateraled to Medeiros, who had run a bubble route to the right. With the defensive secondary moving up, Medeiros threw to Taylor at the 10. Taylor sprinted the rest of the way to complete the scoring play and give Makai the lead, 28-26."
About scoring the game-winning TD, Taylor said:
"Nobody was going to catch me. He underthrew it a little bit, but it worked out." (HA)
About how he was wearing gloves when throwing the pass, Medeiros said:
"I feel better with my gloves on." (HA)
About how he was a QB at Kapolei High School, Medeiros said:
"High school reminiscing." (HA)
About his surprise when they called his play, Medeiros said:
"I was on the sideline and I thought I was done for the game. All of a sudden, he's like, 'Let's run the Medeiros Special.' So I went in, buckled up and just ran it." (HSB)
About how Ron Lee came up with the play, Medeiros said:
"It was Coach Ron's idea. Thursday at practice we were trying to think of a trick play. We were running bubble screens the whole game, so everybody was biting and sure enough we ran the trick play and got the big one." (HSB)
HA Note: "Ron Lee suggested the play during a Makai meeting Thursday. Brent Rausch, Makai's starting quarterback, was given the full details. But the backups were kept in the dark."
About how he wasn't told about the trick play until the Warrior Bowl, Moniz said:
"I didn't even practice it. But it worked out perfectly. Right when I tossed it to Jon, I saw the defense coming up. I knew it would get exciting." (HA)
About how they didn't even practice the trick play, Ron Lee said:
"We just talked about (the play), but we didn't practice it. That's probably the best way. It worked out. Maybe we're coaching too much. They just need to go out and execute." (HA)
HA Note: "It was the second year in a row UH's offensive coordinator defeated the defensive coordinator."
About how their DBs should learn from being burned on the play, Cal Lee said:
"I tell you what, it was a hell of a play, something that we'll learn from. As DBs, we have to play the pass. It's not a trick play, gosh almighty, if you drop back." (HA)
About catching a pass in the right flat and making a defender miss before running untouched the rest of the way for his 70-yard TD on the game's opening play, Blount said:
"The first guy who comes up and tries to tackle me is going to miss nine times out of 10. I was a little amped, a little hyped up." (HA)
About how his success in the Warrior Bowl was helped by Friday's off day, Taylor said:
"I got my legs right, and my body got the rest it needed." (HA)
HA Note: "Austin and wideout Billy Ray Stutzmann collaborated on a 58-yard scoring pass. Stutzmann, aligned on the right, was given a "choice" route. He faked the cornerback to the outside, ran part of a post route, then sprinted straight ahead. He chased down Austin's pass."
About the 58-yard TD pass to Billy Ray Stutzmann, Shane Austin said:
"He made a great catch. He set the corner. I look at that. That's my first read. If he sets (the corner) nice, I'll come back to him. He left the corner in the dust. I just gave him a chance, and he made a great catch. He's young, but he doesn't play like he is. He has some great speed and some great hands. You can count on him." (HA)
About how he might not redshirt, Billy Ray said:
"If they want me to play, I'll play. It's up to the coaches. ... I feel great out there. Guys have been taking care of me. It feels great to compete for a spot." (HA)
HA Note: "Stutzmann still plans to participate in Saint Louis' graduation ceremony next month. Whether he attends what should be his senior prom is another matter."
About why he might not attend his senior prom, Billy Ray smiled and said:
"I have to find a date." (HA)
About his 6-yard TD run, Inoke said:
"I accidentally tripped. It was an accident. I didn't mean to. But it worked out." (HA)
About how he struggled during their first series because his feet was taped too tightly, Inoke said:
"They were numb. I had to loosen it." (HA)
Praising their offense during the game, Mac said:
"I thought the offense did a great job." (HSB)
About how their D had trouble stopping the offense, Mac said:
"We didn't game-plan, we played base. We can fix all that up. All we need is 11 guys to run to the football and hit somebody. When we split them up, it gets a little thinner." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Eight receivers had receptions of 20 yards or longer. Slotback Corey Paclebar was the busiest of the bunch with seven catches for 51 yards, most coming in the second half, when the backups got most of the action. Taylor was the yardage leader with 135, the bulk coming on a 52-yard connection from Moniz and the 50-yard game-winner."
About the competition for playing time at WR, Taylor said:
"We have a lot of depth in receivers and a lot of speed as well. We're all competing for that No. 1 spot, so it's all on who wants it the most. You have to be hungry for it." (HSB)
About the tough decisions the coaches have to make, Ron Lee said:
"We're going to have to do a good job of evaluating. The offseason's going to be critical -- how they come back, how they work. They're great guys, they all work hard, now we have to make some tough calls." (HSB)
About the importance of working hard during the offseason, Medeiros said:
"We had fun today, but all the fun and games are over. Now it's time to put in work. This is where the work begins and this is where everyone's out there grinding trying to keep their positions on the depth chart." (HSB)
About his 70-yard TD on the first play of the game, Blount said:
"Some of the guys on the other team were talking a lot of stuff before the game. It was all set up. Coach said, 'first play score.' We scored." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Senior Leon Wright-Jackson turned in a tough 21-yard gain in the second quarter and finished with 39 yards on four carries. Converted quarterback Inoke Funaki averaged 4.2 yards on his five carries, including a 6-yard touchdown run for Mauka."
About LWJ's success running in the game, Ron Lee said:
"Leon made some good runs along with Funaki. That's big because (defenses) have to focus in on the running game a little. here's a lot of things we can do." (HSB)
Happy that the finished the without many injuries, Mac said:
"I've seen teams devastated by injuries during the spring that hurt you in the fall. But I'm really happy about that." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Tony Tuioti, the Warriors' director of player personnel, estimated between 60 and 70 high school players and their families attended UH's junior day yesterday morning. He said more showed up for the game after competing in yesterday's prep track meets. The players heard from McMackin, athletic director Jim Donovan and UH-Manoa chancellor Virginia Hinshaw and later met with position coaches."
About their Junior Day, Tony Tuioti said:
"Overall it was a real positive experience for all those who attended. We tried to give them all different angles and perspectives." (HSB)
About the panel discussion they had with the parents of the Juniors and current Warrior players, Tuioti said:
"Nothing was edited, nothing was scripted. It was awesome." (HSB)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090426/SPORTS0201/904260384/-1/sportsfront&template=UHSports
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090426_Special_Warrior_Bowl_win_for_Makai.html
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090426_Blount_proves_to_be_an_instant_impact_player.html
About the trick play Ron used with Medeiros, Cal Lee said:
"He kept his mouth quiet. He didn't tell me anything. I knew about another trick play, but he didn't run it." (HA)
HA Note: "With Mauka leading 26-22 and about 11 minutes left in the third quarter, Manoa chancellor Virginia Hinshaw suggested that Ron Lee call the trick play. Makai quarterback Bryant Moniz lateraled to Medeiros, who had run a bubble route to the right. With the defensive secondary moving up, Medeiros threw to Taylor at the 10. Taylor sprinted the rest of the way to complete the scoring play and give Makai the lead, 28-26."
About scoring the game-winning TD, Taylor said:
"Nobody was going to catch me. He underthrew it a little bit, but it worked out." (HA)
About how he was wearing gloves when throwing the pass, Medeiros said:
"I feel better with my gloves on." (HA)
About how he was a QB at Kapolei High School, Medeiros said:
"High school reminiscing." (HA)
About his surprise when they called his play, Medeiros said:
"I was on the sideline and I thought I was done for the game. All of a sudden, he's like, 'Let's run the Medeiros Special.' So I went in, buckled up and just ran it." (HSB)
About how Ron Lee came up with the play, Medeiros said:
"It was Coach Ron's idea. Thursday at practice we were trying to think of a trick play. We were running bubble screens the whole game, so everybody was biting and sure enough we ran the trick play and got the big one." (HSB)
HA Note: "Ron Lee suggested the play during a Makai meeting Thursday. Brent Rausch, Makai's starting quarterback, was given the full details. But the backups were kept in the dark."
About how he wasn't told about the trick play until the Warrior Bowl, Moniz said:
"I didn't even practice it. But it worked out perfectly. Right when I tossed it to Jon, I saw the defense coming up. I knew it would get exciting." (HA)
About how they didn't even practice the trick play, Ron Lee said:
"We just talked about (the play), but we didn't practice it. That's probably the best way. It worked out. Maybe we're coaching too much. They just need to go out and execute." (HA)
HA Note: "It was the second year in a row UH's offensive coordinator defeated the defensive coordinator."
About how their DBs should learn from being burned on the play, Cal Lee said:
"I tell you what, it was a hell of a play, something that we'll learn from. As DBs, we have to play the pass. It's not a trick play, gosh almighty, if you drop back." (HA)
About catching a pass in the right flat and making a defender miss before running untouched the rest of the way for his 70-yard TD on the game's opening play, Blount said:
"The first guy who comes up and tries to tackle me is going to miss nine times out of 10. I was a little amped, a little hyped up." (HA)
About how his success in the Warrior Bowl was helped by Friday's off day, Taylor said:
"I got my legs right, and my body got the rest it needed." (HA)
HA Note: "Austin and wideout Billy Ray Stutzmann collaborated on a 58-yard scoring pass. Stutzmann, aligned on the right, was given a "choice" route. He faked the cornerback to the outside, ran part of a post route, then sprinted straight ahead. He chased down Austin's pass."
About the 58-yard TD pass to Billy Ray Stutzmann, Shane Austin said:
"He made a great catch. He set the corner. I look at that. That's my first read. If he sets (the corner) nice, I'll come back to him. He left the corner in the dust. I just gave him a chance, and he made a great catch. He's young, but he doesn't play like he is. He has some great speed and some great hands. You can count on him." (HA)
About how he might not redshirt, Billy Ray said:
"If they want me to play, I'll play. It's up to the coaches. ... I feel great out there. Guys have been taking care of me. It feels great to compete for a spot." (HA)
HA Note: "Stutzmann still plans to participate in Saint Louis' graduation ceremony next month. Whether he attends what should be his senior prom is another matter."
About why he might not attend his senior prom, Billy Ray smiled and said:
"I have to find a date." (HA)
About his 6-yard TD run, Inoke said:
"I accidentally tripped. It was an accident. I didn't mean to. But it worked out." (HA)
About how he struggled during their first series because his feet was taped too tightly, Inoke said:
"They were numb. I had to loosen it." (HA)
Praising their offense during the game, Mac said:
"I thought the offense did a great job." (HSB)
About how their D had trouble stopping the offense, Mac said:
"We didn't game-plan, we played base. We can fix all that up. All we need is 11 guys to run to the football and hit somebody. When we split them up, it gets a little thinner." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Eight receivers had receptions of 20 yards or longer. Slotback Corey Paclebar was the busiest of the bunch with seven catches for 51 yards, most coming in the second half, when the backups got most of the action. Taylor was the yardage leader with 135, the bulk coming on a 52-yard connection from Moniz and the 50-yard game-winner."
About the competition for playing time at WR, Taylor said:
"We have a lot of depth in receivers and a lot of speed as well. We're all competing for that No. 1 spot, so it's all on who wants it the most. You have to be hungry for it." (HSB)
About the tough decisions the coaches have to make, Ron Lee said:
"We're going to have to do a good job of evaluating. The offseason's going to be critical -- how they come back, how they work. They're great guys, they all work hard, now we have to make some tough calls." (HSB)
About the importance of working hard during the offseason, Medeiros said:
"We had fun today, but all the fun and games are over. Now it's time to put in work. This is where the work begins and this is where everyone's out there grinding trying to keep their positions on the depth chart." (HSB)
About his 70-yard TD on the first play of the game, Blount said:
"Some of the guys on the other team were talking a lot of stuff before the game. It was all set up. Coach said, 'first play score.' We scored." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Senior Leon Wright-Jackson turned in a tough 21-yard gain in the second quarter and finished with 39 yards on four carries. Converted quarterback Inoke Funaki averaged 4.2 yards on his five carries, including a 6-yard touchdown run for Mauka."
About LWJ's success running in the game, Ron Lee said:
"Leon made some good runs along with Funaki. That's big because (defenses) have to focus in on the running game a little. here's a lot of things we can do." (HSB)
Happy that the finished the without many injuries, Mac said:
"I've seen teams devastated by injuries during the spring that hurt you in the fall. But I'm really happy about that." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Tony Tuioti, the Warriors' director of player personnel, estimated between 60 and 70 high school players and their families attended UH's junior day yesterday morning. He said more showed up for the game after competing in yesterday's prep track meets. The players heard from McMackin, athletic director Jim Donovan and UH-Manoa chancellor Virginia Hinshaw and later met with position coaches."
About their Junior Day, Tony Tuioti said:
"Overall it was a real positive experience for all those who attended. We tried to give them all different angles and perspectives." (HSB)
About the panel discussion they had with the parents of the Juniors and current Warrior players, Tuioti said:
"Nothing was edited, nothing was scripted. It was awesome." (HSB)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090426/SPORTS0201/904260384/-1/sportsfront&template=UHSports
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090426_Special_Warrior_Bowl_win_for_Makai.html
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090426_Blount_proves_to_be_an_instant_impact_player.html
Ron Lee says this should be Leon Wright-Jackson's year
About how this should be LWJ's year, offensive coordinator Ron Lee said:
"I'm anxious to see him going into this season. This should be his year." (HA)
About the expectations for him for the season, LWJ said:
"I'm trying to think about it one day at a time right now." (HA)
About LWJ, Ron Lee said:
"He has been working hard; he's been quiet." (HA)
About his struggles during his sophomore season, LWJ said:
"I tried to come out and do too much right away." (HA)
About LWJ's struggles with injuries last season, Ron Lee said:
"He'd get hurt on the first play or in the first quarter, something." (HA)
About his 4 rushes for 39 yards in the Warrior Bowl, LWJ said:
"Best I've felt in a long time." (HA)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090426/COLUMNISTS06/904260382/1142&template=UHSports
"I'm anxious to see him going into this season. This should be his year." (HA)
About the expectations for him for the season, LWJ said:
"I'm trying to think about it one day at a time right now." (HA)
About LWJ, Ron Lee said:
"He has been working hard; he's been quiet." (HA)
About his struggles during his sophomore season, LWJ said:
"I tried to come out and do too much right away." (HA)
About LWJ's struggles with injuries last season, Ron Lee said:
"He'd get hurt on the first play or in the first quarter, something." (HA)
About his 4 rushes for 39 yards in the Warrior Bowl, LWJ said:
"Best I've felt in a long time." (HA)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090426/COLUMNISTS06/904260382/1142&template=UHSports
Warriors OL looks greatly improved at the Warrior Bowl
About how he asked the refs at their scrimmages to watch for holding by their OL, Mac said:
"On Maui last week and this week I went to the officials and told them to watch our hands. And every time they tell me our hands are good." (HSB)
HSB Note: "I talked to a couple of zebras who said UH's offensive linemen have been getting better every week -- and if there had been any holding, it would've been called."
About how their OL have improved their technique this spring, and that leads to improved confidence, OL coach Gordy Shaw said:
"They're learning to block with their feet. They moved their feet well today and they stayed on their blocks." (HSB)
About the five "sacks" during the Warrior Bowl, Shaw said:
"When the quarterback's off-limits, sometimes it helps the defense. They don't have to tackle him. What I liked is I didn't see anyone come in scot-free." (HSB)
About how they have improved their depth on the OL, Shaw said:
"I would say our depth and confidence have improved a lot. Right now, we have a lot of guys who are confident that they can give our quarterbacks all the time that they need." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Right now it goes, from left to right, Aaron Kia, Ray Hisatake, John Estes, Ralph Ieru and Pepa Letuli. But guys like Adrian Thomas and Brysen Ginlack are giving Shaw, offensive coordinator Ron Lee and McMackin plenty to think about."
About not having a holding call during the Warrior Bowl, Thomas said:
"(No holding calls) is a good achievement for us." (HSB)
About their improvement at the OL, RG Ginlack said:
"The calls are better now and the game plan is easier." (HSB)
About how their offense is much better than last year, Mac said:
"We're thin on defense with Blaze (Soares) and Paipai (Falemalu) out, and we split our secondary up. But I think our offense would've moved the ball against anyone today. We're miles ahead of where we were last year." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/columnists/furtherreview/20090426_Warriors_offensive_line_appears_to_have_taken_a_big_leap_forward_this_spring.html
"On Maui last week and this week I went to the officials and told them to watch our hands. And every time they tell me our hands are good." (HSB)
HSB Note: "I talked to a couple of zebras who said UH's offensive linemen have been getting better every week -- and if there had been any holding, it would've been called."
About how their OL have improved their technique this spring, and that leads to improved confidence, OL coach Gordy Shaw said:
"They're learning to block with their feet. They moved their feet well today and they stayed on their blocks." (HSB)
About the five "sacks" during the Warrior Bowl, Shaw said:
"When the quarterback's off-limits, sometimes it helps the defense. They don't have to tackle him. What I liked is I didn't see anyone come in scot-free." (HSB)
About how they have improved their depth on the OL, Shaw said:
"I would say our depth and confidence have improved a lot. Right now, we have a lot of guys who are confident that they can give our quarterbacks all the time that they need." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Right now it goes, from left to right, Aaron Kia, Ray Hisatake, John Estes, Ralph Ieru and Pepa Letuli. But guys like Adrian Thomas and Brysen Ginlack are giving Shaw, offensive coordinator Ron Lee and McMackin plenty to think about."
About not having a holding call during the Warrior Bowl, Thomas said:
"(No holding calls) is a good achievement for us." (HSB)
About their improvement at the OL, RG Ginlack said:
"The calls are better now and the game plan is easier." (HSB)
About how their offense is much better than last year, Mac said:
"We're thin on defense with Blaze (Soares) and Paipai (Falemalu) out, and we split our secondary up. But I think our offense would've moved the ball against anyone today. We're miles ahead of where we were last year." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/columnists/furtherreview/20090426_Warriors_offensive_line_appears_to_have_taken_a_big_leap_forward_this_spring.html
Saturday, April 25, 2009
David Veikune was drafted by Cleveland in the Second Round!
About how he was on the 13th hole of the golf course when he received the call that told him he was drafted by Cleveland in the second round (52nd overall), David Veikune said:
"It's a great feeling. It's such a relief." (HA)
HA Note: "Veikune said his father became emotional. Veikune then received a kiss from his girlfriend."
About being drafted, Veikune said:
"It's awesome." (HA)
Happy that the Browns drafted him because his mother's family lives in Canton, Ohio, Veikune said:
"They'll be nearby." (HA)
Praising Veikune, an NFL scout said:
"He's a good player, a tweaner. ...great motor, quick, active, good movement and always working, working, working." (HA)
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090425/BREAKING02/90425043/-1
"It's a great feeling. It's such a relief." (HA)
HA Note: "Veikune said his father became emotional. Veikune then received a kiss from his girlfriend."
About being drafted, Veikune said:
"It's awesome." (HA)
Happy that the Browns drafted him because his mother's family lives in Canton, Ohio, Veikune said:
"They'll be nearby." (HA)
Praising Veikune, an NFL scout said:
"He's a good player, a tweaner. ...great motor, quick, active, good movement and always working, working, working." (HA)
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090425/BREAKING02/90425043/-1
Warrior Bowl today is critical for many Warriors
About how he has something on the line with a Hawaii Bowl opponent, Dustin Blount said:
"Betting is illegal, so there are no bets, but there's a guarantee I will be eating a steak dinner. Ryan (Henry) will be eating hotdogs." (HA)
Predicting that Blount will be the one eating hotdogs, Ryan Henry said:
"I don't like hotdogs. I don't eat them. But Dustin is used to eating them. He'll be doing that after the game Saturday." (HA)
Looking forward to how the players do in the Hawaii Bowl, Mac said:
"I'm really excited to see the players compete. We've divided the teams evenly. I'm excited to see them under game conditions. There will be officials, full-speed contact." (HA)
HA Note: "The exception is defenders are not permitted to hit the quarterbacks. And there will not be a kicking game."
Looking forward to the Hawaii Bowl, Greg Alexander said:
"It's going to be fun. It will be good to be in a live game." (HA)
HA Note: "Mauka is led by Alexander, center John Estes, running back Inoke Funaki, and receivers Rodney Bradley, Greg Salas and Kealoha Pilares."
Feeling that his Makai team is the underdog, Blount said:
"They have the better overall team. It looks like an all-star team out there. But it'll be like David versus Goliath." (HA)
Henry responded to that:
"Team Mauka will be prepared." (HA)
About how he likes his team's name (Mauka), Henry said:
"Our goal is to get to the top of the mountain. And I have a friend back home (in Los Angeles) named Mauka. She's actually a neighbor." (HA)
About how they will evaluate the Warrior Bowl afterwards, Mac said:
"We will evaluate this film (of the Warrior Bowl)) and add it to the rest (of the videos) of this spring." (HA)
HA Note: "The coaches will evaluate the performances tomorrow, and meet with the team Monday. Then each position coach will meet with his players and explain their situation. McMackin said at least 20 spring players will be cut to make room for newcomers arriving this summer."
About how they have to cut at least 20 players soon, Mac said:
"We want to do a thorough job selecting our team. Unfortunately, some players will have to be let go. It's not fun to do that. It's tough. Everybody's been contributing and playing hard. But (cuts are) part of the game. We're not playing P.E. football. It's Division I football." (HA)
About how he will honor their scholarships, but a scholarship player might not get a spot in training camp, Mac said:
"We're going to take the best players we feel, in our mind, can help us win. I will not cut a scholarship guy, but if he's not in the top 105, he might not go to training camp. But we'll invite him to join when school starts. We haven't made any decisions (on the roster) yet." (HA)
HSB Note: "But for several members of the roster, the impact of the Warrior Bowl will be measured in a meeting tomorrow rather than on the Aloha Stadium scoreboard today. Whether competing for a starting spot or simply a spot on the team, the spring game represents a last chance to make a lasting impression on the coaching staff. Hawaii head coach Greg McMackin said the staff will meet tomorrow to solidify the depth chart heading into the summer and trim the 114-player spring roster to make room for the incoming recruits in advance of fall camp, when the team is limited to 105 players."
About how there is a lot at stake during the Warrior Bowl, Mac said:
"I want them to have fun and come together. You've got to have fun playing football or it's not worth it. They've been really working hard, so I want them to go out and play good football, because there's a lot of jobs on the line. There's a lot at stake. I'll tell them I want them to have themselves ready just like it's a regular ballgame mentally, and then have fun playing football. We're going to meet Sunday and make decisions, so this game definitely figures into what's going on." (HSB)
About how the last available scholarship will be awarded soon, Cory Paredes said:
"It's really big for me because I'm still a walk-on and I'm still trying to work on getting a scholarship. So hopefully I perform at my best and hopefully win one." (HSB)
About how the Warrior Bowl will be competitive, Rausch said:
"It's going to be real competitive. It was pretty competitive (Thursday) and now it's going to be like a real game." (HSB)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090425/SPORTS0201/904250349/1032&template=UHSports
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090425_Some_Warriors_have_much_to_prove.html
"Betting is illegal, so there are no bets, but there's a guarantee I will be eating a steak dinner. Ryan (Henry) will be eating hotdogs." (HA)
Predicting that Blount will be the one eating hotdogs, Ryan Henry said:
"I don't like hotdogs. I don't eat them. But Dustin is used to eating them. He'll be doing that after the game Saturday." (HA)
Looking forward to how the players do in the Hawaii Bowl, Mac said:
"I'm really excited to see the players compete. We've divided the teams evenly. I'm excited to see them under game conditions. There will be officials, full-speed contact." (HA)
HA Note: "The exception is defenders are not permitted to hit the quarterbacks. And there will not be a kicking game."
Looking forward to the Hawaii Bowl, Greg Alexander said:
"It's going to be fun. It will be good to be in a live game." (HA)
HA Note: "Mauka is led by Alexander, center John Estes, running back Inoke Funaki, and receivers Rodney Bradley, Greg Salas and Kealoha Pilares."
Feeling that his Makai team is the underdog, Blount said:
"They have the better overall team. It looks like an all-star team out there. But it'll be like David versus Goliath." (HA)
Henry responded to that:
"Team Mauka will be prepared." (HA)
About how he likes his team's name (Mauka), Henry said:
"Our goal is to get to the top of the mountain. And I have a friend back home (in Los Angeles) named Mauka. She's actually a neighbor." (HA)
About how they will evaluate the Warrior Bowl afterwards, Mac said:
"We will evaluate this film (of the Warrior Bowl)) and add it to the rest (of the videos) of this spring." (HA)
HA Note: "The coaches will evaluate the performances tomorrow, and meet with the team Monday. Then each position coach will meet with his players and explain their situation. McMackin said at least 20 spring players will be cut to make room for newcomers arriving this summer."
About how they have to cut at least 20 players soon, Mac said:
"We want to do a thorough job selecting our team. Unfortunately, some players will have to be let go. It's not fun to do that. It's tough. Everybody's been contributing and playing hard. But (cuts are) part of the game. We're not playing P.E. football. It's Division I football." (HA)
About how he will honor their scholarships, but a scholarship player might not get a spot in training camp, Mac said:
"We're going to take the best players we feel, in our mind, can help us win. I will not cut a scholarship guy, but if he's not in the top 105, he might not go to training camp. But we'll invite him to join when school starts. We haven't made any decisions (on the roster) yet." (HA)
HSB Note: "But for several members of the roster, the impact of the Warrior Bowl will be measured in a meeting tomorrow rather than on the Aloha Stadium scoreboard today. Whether competing for a starting spot or simply a spot on the team, the spring game represents a last chance to make a lasting impression on the coaching staff. Hawaii head coach Greg McMackin said the staff will meet tomorrow to solidify the depth chart heading into the summer and trim the 114-player spring roster to make room for the incoming recruits in advance of fall camp, when the team is limited to 105 players."
About how there is a lot at stake during the Warrior Bowl, Mac said:
"I want them to have fun and come together. You've got to have fun playing football or it's not worth it. They've been really working hard, so I want them to go out and play good football, because there's a lot of jobs on the line. There's a lot at stake. I'll tell them I want them to have themselves ready just like it's a regular ballgame mentally, and then have fun playing football. We're going to meet Sunday and make decisions, so this game definitely figures into what's going on." (HSB)
About how the last available scholarship will be awarded soon, Cory Paredes said:
"It's really big for me because I'm still a walk-on and I'm still trying to work on getting a scholarship. So hopefully I perform at my best and hopefully win one." (HSB)
About how the Warrior Bowl will be competitive, Rausch said:
"It's going to be real competitive. It was pretty competitive (Thursday) and now it's going to be like a real game." (HSB)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090425/SPORTS0201/904250349/1032&template=UHSports
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090425_Some_Warriors_have_much_to_prove.html
Jake Ingram is anxiously waiting the draft
Sounding quite anxious about the draft, Jake Ingram said:
"It's definitely getting harder to sleep and I'm getting anxious and I'm starting to think about that day more and more." (KGMB)
About how he came to UH to play DL, Ingram said:
"Even when I did change and Coach Jones was like you really have some potential to be a great long snapper, I was like 'yeah right. Just let me play.'" (KGMB)
About long snapping, Ingram said:
"I compare myself or like long snappers in general, we're like snippers. You gotta go in and you got your one shot and if you miss you mess it up for your whole team. If you hit like you're supposed to nobody notices. That's what you're supposed to do." (KGMB)
About his strengths as a long snapper, Ingram said:
"Definitely my accuracy, and my ability to block on either side and my ability to get down the field and cover. It's definitely bonuses and pluses for me." (KGMB)
About how long snappers are not normally drafted, Ingram said:
"I think there's been one guy drafted in the last 3 years which was last year a guy Tyler Schmitt. But maybe it'll happen for me." (KGMB)
KGMB Note: "So far New England, Seattle and Kansas City are some of the teams who have talked to Ingram the most."
http://kgmb9.com/main/content/view/16655/43/
"It's definitely getting harder to sleep and I'm getting anxious and I'm starting to think about that day more and more." (KGMB)
About how he came to UH to play DL, Ingram said:
"Even when I did change and Coach Jones was like you really have some potential to be a great long snapper, I was like 'yeah right. Just let me play.'" (KGMB)
About long snapping, Ingram said:
"I compare myself or like long snappers in general, we're like snippers. You gotta go in and you got your one shot and if you miss you mess it up for your whole team. If you hit like you're supposed to nobody notices. That's what you're supposed to do." (KGMB)
About his strengths as a long snapper, Ingram said:
"Definitely my accuracy, and my ability to block on either side and my ability to get down the field and cover. It's definitely bonuses and pluses for me." (KGMB)
About how long snappers are not normally drafted, Ingram said:
"I think there's been one guy drafted in the last 3 years which was last year a guy Tyler Schmitt. But maybe it'll happen for me." (KGMB)
KGMB Note: "So far New England, Seattle and Kansas City are some of the teams who have talked to Ingram the most."
http://kgmb9.com/main/content/view/16655/43/
Friday, April 24, 2009
David Veikune is not nervous about the draft
About how he's not nervous about the draft, David Veikune said:
"I'm not nervous at all right now because I haven't been thinking about it. You know, I've been working out just to get my mind off of everything. I'm not really nervous right now." (KGMB)
About how scouts have labeled him a "tweener", Veikune said:
"During the Senior Bowl, they were calling me a 'tweener' and said I could play linebacker or defensive end. That's why a lot of my personal workouts have been all linebacker stuff because they've seen me and they know I can play defensive end already, they just want to see if i can drop into coverage and stuff like that." (KGMB)
Asked what he'll be doing on draft day, Veikune said:
"Saturday, I'm going to be golfing with my dad, the first time I golfed was last week so it was fun. A little hot though four or five hours in the sun." (KGMB)
http://kgmb9.com/main/content/view/16614/43/
"I'm not nervous at all right now because I haven't been thinking about it. You know, I've been working out just to get my mind off of everything. I'm not really nervous right now." (KGMB)
About how scouts have labeled him a "tweener", Veikune said:
"During the Senior Bowl, they were calling me a 'tweener' and said I could play linebacker or defensive end. That's why a lot of my personal workouts have been all linebacker stuff because they've seen me and they know I can play defensive end already, they just want to see if i can drop into coverage and stuff like that." (KGMB)
Asked what he'll be doing on draft day, Veikune said:
"Saturday, I'm going to be golfing with my dad, the first time I golfed was last week so it was fun. A little hot though four or five hours in the sun." (KGMB)
http://kgmb9.com/main/content/view/16614/43/
Malcolm Lane ended the last spring practice with a 70-yard TD
About how they ended yesterday's practice with 2-minute drills between the Mauka and Makai teams that will face off during the Warrior Bowl tomorrow, Mac said:
"That was a sample of what's going to happen this weekend." (HA)
HA Note: "It also was a flashback as to why wideout Malcolm Lane is expected to be one of the Warriors' top weapons this coming season. Lane, playing for the Makai team, and quarterback Brent Rausch teamed on a 70-yard, catch-and-strut touchdown play."
About how his experience gives him an edge in the battle for playing time, Malcolm Lane said:
"That was three seasons of coverages in games. I give a lot of credit to (offensive coordinator) Ron Lee." (HA)
HA Note: "Lane, aligned on the right side, was given a "choice route," in which he had the option of running a post pattern or a fade route along the right sideline. The Mauka team was in a two-deep zone, with cornerback Tank Hopkins in tight coverage and safety Mana Silva assigned to Lane's half of the field."
About the route he ran, Lane said:
"On that type of play — a cover-2 — I have to set the corner, then fade up the sideline." (HA)
HA Note: "It was a coverage Lane, who is averaging 17.0 yards per catch in his UH career, has seen often. The wideout's decision is influenced by the cornerback's move. If Hopkins leans one way, Lane goes the other. Hopkins shaded to Lane's right, and Lane broke to the left. As Hopkins tried to follow, Lane cut back to the right. Rausch delivered a spiral between Hopkins and the on-charging Silva."
About his pass to Lane, Rausch said:
"It was a tight spot to throw it. Malcolm made it happen. Malcolm has the most experience (among the wideouts), and it definitely paid off on that." (HA)
About how they need to be able to read and react in their offense, Lane said:
"In this offense, you learn a lot about how to recognize zones, and how to get open, and how to get into the right places. That's what's good about this offense." (HA)
HA Note: "Most significant, at least to his younger teammates, was Lane's unabashed joy during the final Manoa practice of spring training. Lane had traded jerseys with slotback Rick Taylor, who did not practice because of a suspected hairline fracture in his right foot."
About trading jerseys with Taylor (who is 3 inches shorter than Lane), Lane said:
"We were playing around." (HA)
HA Note: "Lane has admittedly been on an emotional teeter-totter this semester. Soon after the 2008 Sheraton Hawai'i Bowl, he suffered from strep throat, a condition that caused him to lose several pounds and siphon his energy. Later, he suffered from pink eye. What's more, his thoughts often were on his stepfather, Michael Baldwin, who is stationed in Iraq."
About his stepfather being stationed in Iraq, Lane said:
"It's rough for me. My mom is lonely, sad, things like that. From that aspect, it bothers me. I'm a mama's boy. When my mom's sad, I'm sad. When my mom's happy, I'm happy." (HA)
"We know it's tough over there, but we talk to him every day on the computer. He's doing fine." (HA)
HA Note: "Catherine Baldwin retired after serving 22 years in the Army. Michael Baldwin is head of a military-police unit."
About how he wakes up at 5am to make the morning commute from Wahiawa, Lane said:
"It can be tiring. That's probably why I'm so down some days. I'm tired, and my body's worn out. But I've got to do what I've got to do. I can't miss practice. And I want to be out there every day with the guys." (HA)
Looking forward to the end of spring training because he missed so many offseason workouts due to illness, Lane said:
"I can't wait for spring to be over so I can start training again. I missed so many workouts over the spring semester. I want to train through the summer. I'm going into my senior year, and I want to have the best season possible, and be in the best condition." (HA)
"I'm just looking forward as soon as spring is over getting right back to work for next year." (HSB)
About scoring the TD to end their practice, Lane said:
"When you're in the end zone and you score and you look back and the whole team is running down after you, that's what makes football so much fun." (HSB)
Expecting the Warrior Bowl to be competitive, with some looking to get revenge for his TD yesterday, Lane said:
"I want this game to be as competitive as possible. All of us are competitive people and everybody wants to win. I know there's going to be a couple people looking for my head, but that comes with the turf." (HSB)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090424/SPORTS0201/904240382/1312&template=UHSports
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090424_Lane_ends_springs_final_practice_with_exclamation_point.html
"That was a sample of what's going to happen this weekend." (HA)
HA Note: "It also was a flashback as to why wideout Malcolm Lane is expected to be one of the Warriors' top weapons this coming season. Lane, playing for the Makai team, and quarterback Brent Rausch teamed on a 70-yard, catch-and-strut touchdown play."
About how his experience gives him an edge in the battle for playing time, Malcolm Lane said:
"That was three seasons of coverages in games. I give a lot of credit to (offensive coordinator) Ron Lee." (HA)
HA Note: "Lane, aligned on the right side, was given a "choice route," in which he had the option of running a post pattern or a fade route along the right sideline. The Mauka team was in a two-deep zone, with cornerback Tank Hopkins in tight coverage and safety Mana Silva assigned to Lane's half of the field."
About the route he ran, Lane said:
"On that type of play — a cover-2 — I have to set the corner, then fade up the sideline." (HA)
HA Note: "It was a coverage Lane, who is averaging 17.0 yards per catch in his UH career, has seen often. The wideout's decision is influenced by the cornerback's move. If Hopkins leans one way, Lane goes the other. Hopkins shaded to Lane's right, and Lane broke to the left. As Hopkins tried to follow, Lane cut back to the right. Rausch delivered a spiral between Hopkins and the on-charging Silva."
About his pass to Lane, Rausch said:
"It was a tight spot to throw it. Malcolm made it happen. Malcolm has the most experience (among the wideouts), and it definitely paid off on that." (HA)
About how they need to be able to read and react in their offense, Lane said:
"In this offense, you learn a lot about how to recognize zones, and how to get open, and how to get into the right places. That's what's good about this offense." (HA)
HA Note: "Most significant, at least to his younger teammates, was Lane's unabashed joy during the final Manoa practice of spring training. Lane had traded jerseys with slotback Rick Taylor, who did not practice because of a suspected hairline fracture in his right foot."
About trading jerseys with Taylor (who is 3 inches shorter than Lane), Lane said:
"We were playing around." (HA)
HA Note: "Lane has admittedly been on an emotional teeter-totter this semester. Soon after the 2008 Sheraton Hawai'i Bowl, he suffered from strep throat, a condition that caused him to lose several pounds and siphon his energy. Later, he suffered from pink eye. What's more, his thoughts often were on his stepfather, Michael Baldwin, who is stationed in Iraq."
About his stepfather being stationed in Iraq, Lane said:
"It's rough for me. My mom is lonely, sad, things like that. From that aspect, it bothers me. I'm a mama's boy. When my mom's sad, I'm sad. When my mom's happy, I'm happy." (HA)
"We know it's tough over there, but we talk to him every day on the computer. He's doing fine." (HA)
HA Note: "Catherine Baldwin retired after serving 22 years in the Army. Michael Baldwin is head of a military-police unit."
About how he wakes up at 5am to make the morning commute from Wahiawa, Lane said:
"It can be tiring. That's probably why I'm so down some days. I'm tired, and my body's worn out. But I've got to do what I've got to do. I can't miss practice. And I want to be out there every day with the guys." (HA)
Looking forward to the end of spring training because he missed so many offseason workouts due to illness, Lane said:
"I can't wait for spring to be over so I can start training again. I missed so many workouts over the spring semester. I want to train through the summer. I'm going into my senior year, and I want to have the best season possible, and be in the best condition." (HA)
"I'm just looking forward as soon as spring is over getting right back to work for next year." (HSB)
About scoring the TD to end their practice, Lane said:
"When you're in the end zone and you score and you look back and the whole team is running down after you, that's what makes football so much fun." (HSB)
Expecting the Warrior Bowl to be competitive, with some looking to get revenge for his TD yesterday, Lane said:
"I want this game to be as competitive as possible. All of us are competitive people and everybody wants to win. I know there's going to be a couple people looking for my head, but that comes with the turf." (HSB)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090424/SPORTS0201/904240382/1312&template=UHSports
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090424_Lane_ends_springs_final_practice_with_exclamation_point.html
Feature on backup QBs Rausch and Austin
About how his arm problems last Fall were due to strenuous work in the first week of training camp, Rausch said:
"We were throwing, like, a thousand balls a day." (HA)
About how he's gained more than 10 pounds via their strength and conditioning program and has no concerns with arm fatigue, Rausch said:
"Everything's fine." (HA)
About completing 7 of 8 passes during their 2-minute drill yesterday, Shane Austin discussed a ricochet that he caught:
"I was wide open." (HA)
HA Note: "One of the completions — a 27-yarder to a leaping Greg Salas — was nullified because of a questionable false start. He also was ruled to have been "sacked" twice, despite protests from Makai teammates."
About plays being blown dead when a defender is near, similar to phantom tags in baseball, John Estes said:
"The defense loves fly-bys. How do you make a sack from 2 yards away?" (HA)
About the two-minute drill, Austin said:
"It was fun." (HA)
About how the spring has gone well, Mac said:
"It's been a productive spring. The last couple of days we've had some fun bringing them together." (HA)
"We were throwing, like, a thousand balls a day." (HA)
About how he's gained more than 10 pounds via their strength and conditioning program and has no concerns with arm fatigue, Rausch said:
"Everything's fine." (HA)
About completing 7 of 8 passes during their 2-minute drill yesterday, Shane Austin discussed a ricochet that he caught:
"I was wide open." (HA)
HA Note: "One of the completions — a 27-yarder to a leaping Greg Salas — was nullified because of a questionable false start. He also was ruled to have been "sacked" twice, despite protests from Makai teammates."
About plays being blown dead when a defender is near, similar to phantom tags in baseball, John Estes said:
"The defense loves fly-bys. How do you make a sack from 2 yards away?" (HA)
About the two-minute drill, Austin said:
"It was fun." (HA)
About how the spring has gone well, Mac said:
"It's been a productive spring. The last couple of days we've had some fun bringing them together." (HA)
David Veikune and Josh Leonard await the NFL draft
About how playing in the NFL has been his dream, David Veikune said:
"The main thing is it's always been my dream to play in the NFL, so moving to do that is going to be another journey and I'm going to enjoy it. It's been a crazy road. I'm just thankful for everything I've gotten." (HSB)
HSB Note: "After participating in Hawaii's pro day on April 2, Veikune's schedule of team visits kept him on the go as he criss-crossed the country to Philadelphia, Denver, Tennessee and Miami."
About visiting with so many NFL teams, Veikune said:
"At least I got some frequent-flier miles off of it. It was pretty tiring, plus the time change. I tried to stay in shape. I'd always try to run and lift everywhere I went." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Veikune's name has popped up as a possible third- or fourth-round pick, and he said he's received calls from most of the teams in the league making sure they have his contact information for the weekend."
Asked for where he prefers to play at, Veikune said:
"Who doesn't like to be in a warm place? But if I'm in the cold, hey, I'm going to embrace it." (HSB)
Asked what he'll be doing during the draft, Veikune said:
"I'm not completely sure what I'm going to do, maybe golf or something like that. Just get my mind off stuff." (HSB)
About how NFL interest in him increased after UH's Pro Day, Josh Leonard said:
"Before (pro day) I still had a good amount of teams interested. The pro day helped solidify me hopefully as a late-round pick or a free agent." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Leonard said he's heard from about 20 teams since pro day and could play tackle in a 4-3 alignment, as he did at Hawaii, or end in a 3-4 front."
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090424_Motor-vated.html
"The main thing is it's always been my dream to play in the NFL, so moving to do that is going to be another journey and I'm going to enjoy it. It's been a crazy road. I'm just thankful for everything I've gotten." (HSB)
HSB Note: "After participating in Hawaii's pro day on April 2, Veikune's schedule of team visits kept him on the go as he criss-crossed the country to Philadelphia, Denver, Tennessee and Miami."
About visiting with so many NFL teams, Veikune said:
"At least I got some frequent-flier miles off of it. It was pretty tiring, plus the time change. I tried to stay in shape. I'd always try to run and lift everywhere I went." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Veikune's name has popped up as a possible third- or fourth-round pick, and he said he's received calls from most of the teams in the league making sure they have his contact information for the weekend."
Asked for where he prefers to play at, Veikune said:
"Who doesn't like to be in a warm place? But if I'm in the cold, hey, I'm going to embrace it." (HSB)
Asked what he'll be doing during the draft, Veikune said:
"I'm not completely sure what I'm going to do, maybe golf or something like that. Just get my mind off stuff." (HSB)
About how NFL interest in him increased after UH's Pro Day, Josh Leonard said:
"Before (pro day) I still had a good amount of teams interested. The pro day helped solidify me hopefully as a late-round pick or a free agent." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Leonard said he's heard from about 20 teams since pro day and could play tackle in a 4-3 alignment, as he did at Hawaii, or end in a 3-4 front."
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090424_Motor-vated.html
Gerard Lewis and Myron Newberry are playing for the Amarillo Dusters
About playing for the Amarillo Dusters of af2 arena football with his Warrior teammate Myron Newberry, Gerard Lewis said:
“Life is treating me great." (HSB)
“Life is treating me great." (HSB)
Thursday, April 23, 2009
David Veikune awaits the NFL draft
About what he's going to do during the draft, David Veikune said:
"I'm going to go golfing." (HA)
HA Note: "Veikune has drawn strong interest from several NFL teams. The Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, Philadelphia Eagles, Tennessee Titans and Miami Dolphins brought him in for personal workouts. The Arizona Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys have had face-to-face interviews with Veikune."
HA Note: "Veikune said that at 260 pounds, he is at a middle weight. He believes he would need to weigh at least 270 to play end in a 4-3 alignment. He said he probably could play linebacker at 255."
About when Veikune will be drafted, his agent Kenny Zuckerman said:
"I can say that he's got first-day talent, but where he gets drafted depends on how teams draft players at his position." (HA)
HA Note: "Zuckerman said scouts like Veikune's potential. The Campbell High grad attended Colorado for a year and then Fresno City College for a semester. He was at UH for three years."
About how Veikune hasn't reached his potential yet, Zuckerman said:
"He's only been a one-year starter. "His best football is ahead of him." (HA)
About how he's not going to have a draft party, Veikune said:
"Why have a party when you're not sure where you're going to go?" (HA)
Asked for his handicap in golf, Veikune said:
"Severe. The first time I played was on Friday. I'm not very good, but I had fun." (HA)
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090423/SPORTS04/904230357/1049
"I'm going to go golfing." (HA)
HA Note: "Veikune has drawn strong interest from several NFL teams. The Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, Philadelphia Eagles, Tennessee Titans and Miami Dolphins brought him in for personal workouts. The Arizona Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys have had face-to-face interviews with Veikune."
HA Note: "Veikune said that at 260 pounds, he is at a middle weight. He believes he would need to weigh at least 270 to play end in a 4-3 alignment. He said he probably could play linebacker at 255."
About when Veikune will be drafted, his agent Kenny Zuckerman said:
"I can say that he's got first-day talent, but where he gets drafted depends on how teams draft players at his position." (HA)
HA Note: "Zuckerman said scouts like Veikune's potential. The Campbell High grad attended Colorado for a year and then Fresno City College for a semester. He was at UH for three years."
About how Veikune hasn't reached his potential yet, Zuckerman said:
"He's only been a one-year starter. "His best football is ahead of him." (HA)
About how he's not going to have a draft party, Veikune said:
"Why have a party when you're not sure where you're going to go?" (HA)
Asked for his handicap in golf, Veikune said:
"Severe. The first time I played was on Friday. I'm not very good, but I had fun." (HA)
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090423/SPORTS04/904230357/1049
UH unveiled the "Noke", with Inoke taking direct snaps
About how he asked his sister if she would name her son after him, Inoke laughed and said:
"It didn't happen. I don't think anyone or anything has ever been named after me." (HA)
HA Note: "That changed yesterday when UH head coach Greg McMackin unveiled the "Noke," an offensive scheme in which Funaki takes the direct snap. McMackin said the position, in college, used to be called the "bulldog." In recent years, the NFL, most famously the Miami Dolphins, picked it up, calling it the "wildcat." "
About the spread of "wildcat" positions in the NFL, Mac said:
"I'm sick of 'wildcat.' All of a sudden the NFL has an 'original' idea. They're the last group that's going to get something original. They do it, and, all of a sudden it's the 'wildcat.' Shoot, we've been doing it for years." (HA)
HA Note: "McMackin said Funaki is the perfect candidate. Funaki played quarterback in his first four UH seasons, and he's a skilled runner. The "Noke" is best in short-yardage situations, allowing Funaki to run the option, with the running back as a blocker or a wingback. There also is a play in which quarterback Greg Alexander curls deeper into the backfield, setting up a double pass."
About how the "Noke" is a complement to their base four-wide offense, Mac said:
"Basically, it's a third-down, red-zone deal. But with Inoke's talent, it can go beyond that." (HA)
About lining up at QB without the protective orange jersey on, Inoke said that the defenders:
"were having a field day with this. This is four years of all of this emotion they were bottling up. They finally got to let it out." (HA)
HSB Note: "Now a running back, Funaki ran seven plays at quarterback at the end of yesterday's practice. But where defenders couldn't touch him when he wore orange as a full-time QB, his white jersey left him open to hitting this time."
About not having an orange jersey during practice, Inoke said:
"I don't have that halo, not any more. But it's OK, gotta get used to it." (HSB)
HA Note: "Funaki suffered a cut on the left side of his neck from linebacker Po'okela Ahmad."
Inoke said that Ahmad attempted a swim move:
"and his hand didn't make it all the way over. Coincidentally, he had a long finger nail. It almost slit my throat. He went for the jugular." (HA)
About cutting Inoke on the neck, Ahmad said:
"Did I do that? Everybody keeps telling me I did that. I'm going to say 'I'm sorry.' " (HA)
About how he didn't know about the "Noke" until a meeting before yesterday's practice, with RB coach Brian Smith giving him the basic plays, Inoke said:
"The run plays use the same reads as if I were a running back." (HA)
Asked if he reports to RB coach Smith or QB coach Rolo, Inoke said:
"I guess my coach is now Rolosmith." (HA)
HSB Note: "Head coach Greg McMackin said the " 'Noke offense," is designed for short-yardage or red-zone situations. Funaki kept the ball on five option plays out of the formation and attempted two passes."
About how Inoke is a dual threat in the Noke, Mac said:
"The advantage we have is he can throw it too. We wanted to put it in today so we'd have it this spring and then we're going to work more on it in the preseason." (HSB)
About how he hadn't expected to be used at QB, Inoke said:
"I wasn't really anticipating it. I know they had talked about it, but I didn't think they would draw anything up in the spring." (HSB)
About how at first he hesitated to hit Inoke, LB Cory Paredes said:
"The first play I tried not to touch him too much, and I got in trouble for that. So he was just another runner now. He's my friend, but you have to hit him." (HSB)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090423/SPORTS0201/904230354/1312&template=UHSports
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090423_notebook_its_open_season_on_funaki.html
"It didn't happen. I don't think anyone or anything has ever been named after me." (HA)
HA Note: "That changed yesterday when UH head coach Greg McMackin unveiled the "Noke," an offensive scheme in which Funaki takes the direct snap. McMackin said the position, in college, used to be called the "bulldog." In recent years, the NFL, most famously the Miami Dolphins, picked it up, calling it the "wildcat." "
About the spread of "wildcat" positions in the NFL, Mac said:
"I'm sick of 'wildcat.' All of a sudden the NFL has an 'original' idea. They're the last group that's going to get something original. They do it, and, all of a sudden it's the 'wildcat.' Shoot, we've been doing it for years." (HA)
HA Note: "McMackin said Funaki is the perfect candidate. Funaki played quarterback in his first four UH seasons, and he's a skilled runner. The "Noke" is best in short-yardage situations, allowing Funaki to run the option, with the running back as a blocker or a wingback. There also is a play in which quarterback Greg Alexander curls deeper into the backfield, setting up a double pass."
About how the "Noke" is a complement to their base four-wide offense, Mac said:
"Basically, it's a third-down, red-zone deal. But with Inoke's talent, it can go beyond that." (HA)
About lining up at QB without the protective orange jersey on, Inoke said that the defenders:
"were having a field day with this. This is four years of all of this emotion they were bottling up. They finally got to let it out." (HA)
HSB Note: "Now a running back, Funaki ran seven plays at quarterback at the end of yesterday's practice. But where defenders couldn't touch him when he wore orange as a full-time QB, his white jersey left him open to hitting this time."
About not having an orange jersey during practice, Inoke said:
"I don't have that halo, not any more. But it's OK, gotta get used to it." (HSB)
HA Note: "Funaki suffered a cut on the left side of his neck from linebacker Po'okela Ahmad."
Inoke said that Ahmad attempted a swim move:
"and his hand didn't make it all the way over. Coincidentally, he had a long finger nail. It almost slit my throat. He went for the jugular." (HA)
About cutting Inoke on the neck, Ahmad said:
"Did I do that? Everybody keeps telling me I did that. I'm going to say 'I'm sorry.' " (HA)
About how he didn't know about the "Noke" until a meeting before yesterday's practice, with RB coach Brian Smith giving him the basic plays, Inoke said:
"The run plays use the same reads as if I were a running back." (HA)
Asked if he reports to RB coach Smith or QB coach Rolo, Inoke said:
"I guess my coach is now Rolosmith." (HA)
HSB Note: "Head coach Greg McMackin said the " 'Noke offense," is designed for short-yardage or red-zone situations. Funaki kept the ball on five option plays out of the formation and attempted two passes."
About how Inoke is a dual threat in the Noke, Mac said:
"The advantage we have is he can throw it too. We wanted to put it in today so we'd have it this spring and then we're going to work more on it in the preseason." (HSB)
About how he hadn't expected to be used at QB, Inoke said:
"I wasn't really anticipating it. I know they had talked about it, but I didn't think they would draw anything up in the spring." (HSB)
About how at first he hesitated to hit Inoke, LB Cory Paredes said:
"The first play I tried not to touch him too much, and I got in trouble for that. So he was just another runner now. He's my friend, but you have to hit him." (HSB)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090423/SPORTS0201/904230354/1312&template=UHSports
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090423_notebook_its_open_season_on_funaki.html
CB Steve Christian is pre-med and wants to study the brain
HA Note: "Christian is a pre-med major who is interested in neurology. In particular, Christian is intrigued by what causes dementia and Alzheimer's. His grandmother suffers from memory lapses."
About studying the brain, Steve Christian said:
"I want to see how the brain develops." (HA)
About receiving extra practice reps yesterday with CBs Jeramy Bryant and Tank Hopkins out with injury, Christian said:
"I feel good out there. I'm feeling a little more confident." (HA)
About studying the brain, Steve Christian said:
"I want to see how the brain develops." (HA)
About receiving extra practice reps yesterday with CBs Jeramy Bryant and Tank Hopkins out with injury, Christian said:
"I feel good out there. I'm feeling a little more confident." (HA)
UH has a lot competition at the receiver positions
About how he benefited from being redshirted, Ryan Henry said:
"Redshirting was a wonderful thing. It gave me a chance to get stronger, put on some weight, get familiar with the offense and just adapt to being out here. It was a blessing in disguise and the coaches knew what they were doing." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Now part of the competition for playing time, Henry and Dustin Blount have been running second in the slotback rotation in spring practice behind Kealoha Pilares and Jon Medeiros during spring practice. With Greg Salas learning the slotback position this spring, Mike Tinoco -- another of last year's redshirts -- has seen more action at wide receiver along with speedy newcomer Rodney Bradley. Jovonte Taylor was contributing as a kick returner early in his first season. But an illness forced him to miss most of the year and he's back in the mix at right wide receiver with returnees Malcolm Lane and Royce Pollard."
About how they have given all of their players reps this spring to compete for their spots, offensive coordinator Ron Lee said:
"We wanted to give everybody reps. We're going to make some decisions after spring. We gave everybody a chance to step up and now we've got to evaluate. Every position is still up in the air. ... It's competitive and we have to put the best out there." (HSB)
About how his redshirt year gave him time to learn the offense better, Tinoco said:
"I didn't expect it. I was hoping to learn it quick and have a chance. They gave me a chance, but there were some things I was unsure on. It was good for me because I learned the offense really well now. I don't even think when I'm running routes." (HSB)
About how he took pride in being part of the scout team, Henry (who was even scout team QB when UH faced option teams) said:
"It was kind of hard to accept it at first, but after that I took pride in being on the scout team and took it as a learning experience and a chance to get physical with the starting defense." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Now part of the regular rotation, Henry had a productive scrimmage on Maui with seven catches for 50 yards. Blount caught four passes for 52 yards on Maui and three catches for 36 yards in last week's scrimmage on campus. Taylor and Bradley both had touchdown receptions last week as well. Freshman slotback Jeremiah Ostrowski also redshirted last year and has shown promise in the spring."
About their depth at receiver, Blount said:
"All the receivers we've got are amazing athletes. It's just a big competition right now." (HSB)
"Redshirting was a wonderful thing. It gave me a chance to get stronger, put on some weight, get familiar with the offense and just adapt to being out here. It was a blessing in disguise and the coaches knew what they were doing." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Now part of the competition for playing time, Henry and Dustin Blount have been running second in the slotback rotation in spring practice behind Kealoha Pilares and Jon Medeiros during spring practice. With Greg Salas learning the slotback position this spring, Mike Tinoco -- another of last year's redshirts -- has seen more action at wide receiver along with speedy newcomer Rodney Bradley. Jovonte Taylor was contributing as a kick returner early in his first season. But an illness forced him to miss most of the year and he's back in the mix at right wide receiver with returnees Malcolm Lane and Royce Pollard."
About how they have given all of their players reps this spring to compete for their spots, offensive coordinator Ron Lee said:
"We wanted to give everybody reps. We're going to make some decisions after spring. We gave everybody a chance to step up and now we've got to evaluate. Every position is still up in the air. ... It's competitive and we have to put the best out there." (HSB)
About how his redshirt year gave him time to learn the offense better, Tinoco said:
"I didn't expect it. I was hoping to learn it quick and have a chance. They gave me a chance, but there were some things I was unsure on. It was good for me because I learned the offense really well now. I don't even think when I'm running routes." (HSB)
About how he took pride in being part of the scout team, Henry (who was even scout team QB when UH faced option teams) said:
"It was kind of hard to accept it at first, but after that I took pride in being on the scout team and took it as a learning experience and a chance to get physical with the starting defense." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Now part of the regular rotation, Henry had a productive scrimmage on Maui with seven catches for 50 yards. Blount caught four passes for 52 yards on Maui and three catches for 36 yards in last week's scrimmage on campus. Taylor and Bradley both had touchdown receptions last week as well. Freshman slotback Jeremiah Ostrowski also redshirted last year and has shown promise in the spring."
About their depth at receiver, Blount said:
"All the receivers we've got are amazing athletes. It's just a big competition right now." (HSB)
Update on Adam Leonard and Solomon Elimimian
Confident he can make an NFL team, Adam Leonard said:
"I have confidence no matter how I get in I have the ability to make a team. The goal is to get into a camp, but I’m pretty confident I’ll get drafted.” (HSB)
HSB Note: "Former Hawaii linebackers Solomon Elimimian and Adam Leonard are also looking for a chance to break into the league. Elimimian's agent, Wynn Silberman, said teams that run a Tampa-2 defense have shown interest in Elimimian, UH's all-time leading tackler. Leonard had a workout with the Seattle Seahawks after his performance at Hawaii's pro day."
"I have confidence no matter how I get in I have the ability to make a team. The goal is to get into a camp, but I’m pretty confident I’ll get drafted.” (HSB)
HSB Note: "Former Hawaii linebackers Solomon Elimimian and Adam Leonard are also looking for a chance to break into the league. Elimimian's agent, Wynn Silberman, said teams that run a Tampa-2 defense have shown interest in Elimimian, UH's all-time leading tackler. Leonard had a workout with the Seattle Seahawks after his performance at Hawaii's pro day."
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Warrior coaches are optimistic about the new secondary
About their new players in the secondary (all the starters completed their eligibility and none of the players competing for starting positions have started for UH before), Mac said:
"I think they have excellent talent, they can run, they're all good athletes, it's just a matter of playing together, communicating and playing with emotion." (KHNL)
About their new players in the secondary, Rich Miano said:
"These are going to be four guys that when the lights go on against Central Arkansas, they have never taken a rep most likely, so there's some anxiety that's why we're blessed to have three scrimmages were having, the last one being at Aloha Stadium, because we want to see them under more pressure, live bullets so to speak, the intensity of the fans, all that stuff that comes with the game, so they need to get game experience quick." (KHNL)
About how they are working on their consistency, Spencer Smith said:
"It's better to be consistently good than occasionally great, so that's what we're tying to do, get consistency down so we don't give up all those big plays that we gave up last year, and we're trying to bond together as a unit as a secondary and hopefully get some good play." (KHNL)
About how their DBs are working hard and learning from their coaches, Jeramy Bryant said:
"We're young, we understand we're young so we gotta stay around the coaches as much as possible, but everybody here is willing to be coached, there's no sore thumbs, no guys who come out and say well I got hurt I can't go today, everybody gives 100 percent to the team, and if we just continue to do that, sky is the limit for this unit." (KHNL)
http://www.khnl.com/Global/story.asp?S=10218315
"I think they have excellent talent, they can run, they're all good athletes, it's just a matter of playing together, communicating and playing with emotion." (KHNL)
About their new players in the secondary, Rich Miano said:
"These are going to be four guys that when the lights go on against Central Arkansas, they have never taken a rep most likely, so there's some anxiety that's why we're blessed to have three scrimmages were having, the last one being at Aloha Stadium, because we want to see them under more pressure, live bullets so to speak, the intensity of the fans, all that stuff that comes with the game, so they need to get game experience quick." (KHNL)
About how they are working on their consistency, Spencer Smith said:
"It's better to be consistently good than occasionally great, so that's what we're tying to do, get consistency down so we don't give up all those big plays that we gave up last year, and we're trying to bond together as a unit as a secondary and hopefully get some good play." (KHNL)
About how their DBs are working hard and learning from their coaches, Jeramy Bryant said:
"We're young, we understand we're young so we gotta stay around the coaches as much as possible, but everybody here is willing to be coached, there's no sore thumbs, no guys who come out and say well I got hurt I can't go today, everybody gives 100 percent to the team, and if we just continue to do that, sky is the limit for this unit." (KHNL)
http://www.khnl.com/Global/story.asp?S=10218315
Ryan Mouton, Adam Leonard, and Josh Leonard await the NFL draft
HA Note: "Mouton is an intriguing prospect. He was the most talented cornerback in his two seasons in Hawai'i, although his playing time was limited because of injuries and circumstances. In 2007, he endured a partially torn posterior cruciate ligament. In 2008, he was used at slotback and nickelback, as well as his natural position of cornerback. He also overcame an ankle injury."
About how different teams judge CBs differently, Mouton's agent Kenny Zuckerman said:
"When it comes to corners, it's the teams' flavor of choice. Some teams like big corners. Some like smaller corners who are fast. It really depends." (HA)
HA Note: "Mouton tried to alleviate concerns by taking the Biodex, a test that measures the strength of the hamstring, quadriceps and the area between the two."
About how Mouton's right hamstring was 100% and his left was at 93% on the Biodex test, Zuckerman said:
"There's a slight difference. Nothing to scare a team away." (HA)
HA Note: "Mouton and safety Sammy Knight have trained together. Knight was named to the 2001 Pro Bowl when he was with the New Orleans Saints."
Mouton said that playing pro football has:
"always been a dream of mine. Hopefully, everything goes well on draft day." (HA)
HA Note: "For Mouton, that should be Sunday, when the third through seventh rounds will be conducted. Mouton and several former teammates from Blinn Junior College have rented a place for Saturday night. Sunday morning, they will attend church. Mouton's father is a pastor. Then they will watch the draft."
Asked what was his good luck charm, Mouton said:
"My cell phone, which hopefully will be getting calls." (HA)
Asked if he did enough in postseason workouts to get drafted, Mouton said:
"Hopefully so. I would have liked to do more, but I feel I showed enough." (HSB)
About the wide disparity in his draft status on different sites, Mouton said:
"I really don't know what to expect." (HSB)
HSB Note: "While the workouts carry weight with scouts, UH associate coach Rich Miano, who is also the Warriors' NFL liaison, said Mouton "put enough stuff on film," to make teams take notice."
About how scouts judge players, Mouton said:
"They look at a lot of things. A lot of them will look at what you did in the combine and pro day, but the one thing they can't take away is what you did on the field." (HSB)
About how his hamstring will be ready when mini-camps start after the draft, Mouton said:
"The main thing is getting in there and going to work." (HSB)
About his 4.88 time in the 40-yard dash at UH's Pro Day, Adam Leonard said:
"I was too tense. I was over-thinking everything instead of relaxing." (HA)
About how he was more comfortable during LB drills, Adam said:
"By the time we did linebacker drills, I told myself I've got nothing to lose. I was disappointed early, but then I went out there and relaxed and had fun." (HA)
About how he's received interest from several NFL teams, including his hometown Seahawks and the Eagles, Adam said:
"We'll see what happens. I'm looking forward to this weekend." (HA)
About how his life has changed since UH's Pro Day (he benched 225 pounds 41 times and ran the pro-agility drill in 4.35 seconds), Josh Leonard said:
"I'm doing much better." (HA)
HA Note: "Before Pro Day, he drew little interest. In the past three weeks, he has received inquiries from 20 NFL teams. The Indianapolis Colts, Carolina Panthers, Cleveland Browns, Buffalo Bills and Dolphins have shown the most interest, sending T-shirts and hats — the photo-op accessories for draft weekend. Leonard, who is 6 feet 2 3/8, said he gained 15 pounds since Pro Day and now weighs 298."
About how different teams judge CBs differently, Mouton's agent Kenny Zuckerman said:
"When it comes to corners, it's the teams' flavor of choice. Some teams like big corners. Some like smaller corners who are fast. It really depends." (HA)
HA Note: "Mouton tried to alleviate concerns by taking the Biodex, a test that measures the strength of the hamstring, quadriceps and the area between the two."
About how Mouton's right hamstring was 100% and his left was at 93% on the Biodex test, Zuckerman said:
"There's a slight difference. Nothing to scare a team away." (HA)
HA Note: "Mouton and safety Sammy Knight have trained together. Knight was named to the 2001 Pro Bowl when he was with the New Orleans Saints."
Mouton said that playing pro football has:
"always been a dream of mine. Hopefully, everything goes well on draft day." (HA)
HA Note: "For Mouton, that should be Sunday, when the third through seventh rounds will be conducted. Mouton and several former teammates from Blinn Junior College have rented a place for Saturday night. Sunday morning, they will attend church. Mouton's father is a pastor. Then they will watch the draft."
Asked what was his good luck charm, Mouton said:
"My cell phone, which hopefully will be getting calls." (HA)
Asked if he did enough in postseason workouts to get drafted, Mouton said:
"Hopefully so. I would have liked to do more, but I feel I showed enough." (HSB)
About the wide disparity in his draft status on different sites, Mouton said:
"I really don't know what to expect." (HSB)
HSB Note: "While the workouts carry weight with scouts, UH associate coach Rich Miano, who is also the Warriors' NFL liaison, said Mouton "put enough stuff on film," to make teams take notice."
About how scouts judge players, Mouton said:
"They look at a lot of things. A lot of them will look at what you did in the combine and pro day, but the one thing they can't take away is what you did on the field." (HSB)
About how his hamstring will be ready when mini-camps start after the draft, Mouton said:
"The main thing is getting in there and going to work." (HSB)
About his 4.88 time in the 40-yard dash at UH's Pro Day, Adam Leonard said:
"I was too tense. I was over-thinking everything instead of relaxing." (HA)
About how he was more comfortable during LB drills, Adam said:
"By the time we did linebacker drills, I told myself I've got nothing to lose. I was disappointed early, but then I went out there and relaxed and had fun." (HA)
About how he's received interest from several NFL teams, including his hometown Seahawks and the Eagles, Adam said:
"We'll see what happens. I'm looking forward to this weekend." (HA)
About how his life has changed since UH's Pro Day (he benched 225 pounds 41 times and ran the pro-agility drill in 4.35 seconds), Josh Leonard said:
"I'm doing much better." (HA)
HA Note: "Before Pro Day, he drew little interest. In the past three weeks, he has received inquiries from 20 NFL teams. The Indianapolis Colts, Carolina Panthers, Cleveland Browns, Buffalo Bills and Dolphins have shown the most interest, sending T-shirts and hats — the photo-op accessories for draft weekend. Leonard, who is 6 feet 2 3/8, said he gained 15 pounds since Pro Day and now weighs 298."
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Mel Kiper praised Jacob Ingram, says Jake will be drafted in the 5th or 6th round
USA = USA Today
Praising Jake Ingram, Mel Kiper said:
"Jacob Ingram out of Hawaii is a very good long snapper, so he's probably going to get drafted in the fifth, sixth round." (USA)
USA Note: "Ingram, 6-3, 235 pounds, is taking the wait-and-see approach. But about a third of the snappers in the NFL last season were drafted in rounds four through seven. He's rated the top snapper by NFLDraftScout.com."
About the predictions that he will be drafted, Ingram said:
"You never know until draft day." (USA)
USA Note: "He was a backup defensive end as a walk-on freshman at Hawaii. He hadn't been a high school snapper in Mililani, Hawaii, but he'd always had a knack for it. As a freshman, he helped Hawaii senior snapper Tanuvasa "T.J." Moe with his warm-up. In the process, Ingram snapped himself. In a game that season, Moe (also a linebacker) hurt his hand. Then-Hawaii coach June Jones turned to Ingram."
About JJ approaching him to long-snap for UH, Ingram said:
"He was like, "Can you do it for us?' I was like, "Yeah, I'll do it.' So I went in, started snapping." (USA)
About how he can deliver a 15-yard punt snap in 0.7 seconds (where 0.8 is considered solid in the NFL), Ingram said:
"I'm anywhere from between 0.65 seconds to 0.7." (USA)
Asked how many snaps he botched at UH, Ingram said:
"I didn't have any. I've had like two (one on a punt and one on a place-kick) that went through our guys hands. That's about it." (USA)
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090421/BREAKING02/90421106/-1
Praising Jake Ingram, Mel Kiper said:
"Jacob Ingram out of Hawaii is a very good long snapper, so he's probably going to get drafted in the fifth, sixth round." (USA)
USA Note: "Ingram, 6-3, 235 pounds, is taking the wait-and-see approach. But about a third of the snappers in the NFL last season were drafted in rounds four through seven. He's rated the top snapper by NFLDraftScout.com."
About the predictions that he will be drafted, Ingram said:
"You never know until draft day." (USA)
USA Note: "He was a backup defensive end as a walk-on freshman at Hawaii. He hadn't been a high school snapper in Mililani, Hawaii, but he'd always had a knack for it. As a freshman, he helped Hawaii senior snapper Tanuvasa "T.J." Moe with his warm-up. In the process, Ingram snapped himself. In a game that season, Moe (also a linebacker) hurt his hand. Then-Hawaii coach June Jones turned to Ingram."
About JJ approaching him to long-snap for UH, Ingram said:
"He was like, "Can you do it for us?' I was like, "Yeah, I'll do it.' So I went in, started snapping." (USA)
About how he can deliver a 15-yard punt snap in 0.7 seconds (where 0.8 is considered solid in the NFL), Ingram said:
"I'm anywhere from between 0.65 seconds to 0.7." (USA)
Asked how many snaps he botched at UH, Ingram said:
"I didn't have any. I've had like two (one on a punt and one on a place-kick) that went through our guys hands. That's about it." (USA)
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090421/BREAKING02/90421106/-1
Bess said that the Dolphins WRs are underestimated
About how Miami's WRs are underestimated, Bess said:
"We're underestimated. We hear Mel Kiper and Todd McShay saying the Dolphins don't have receivers. It's a smack in the face. We can't buy into it." (Miami Herald)
"We're underestimated. We hear Mel Kiper and Todd McShay saying the Dolphins don't have receivers. It's a smack in the face. We can't buy into it." (Miami Herald)
All but three starting positions are still available
About how all but 3 starting jobs are still open, Mac said:
"Every job is open except three." (HA)
About how only C Estes, QB Alexander, and DE Fonoti have nailed down starting jobs, Mac said:
"Everything else is competition. And that's good. Competition is making us better." (HA)
HA Note: "McMackin said the Warriors are "2 1/2 deep" at each of the four receiver positions. McMackin said he is not ready to declare the starting guards and tackles on the offensive line, whose No. 1 unit has remained intact all spring."
Mac praised the skill and athletic ability of the D, but said that the D is:
"not playing with emotion. That usually comes from leaders. If somebody makes a good play, everyone on defense needs to let that guy know he made a good play. Everyone is competing so hard for their positions, they haven't gotten to that point yet. That point will come naturally, and leaders will be born." (HA)
About how the depth chart will be fluid until the second week of Fall camp, Mac said:
"We may have to list some people No. 1 as starting points, but everything is open until the second week of training camp, with the exception of three positions." (HA)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090421/SPORTS0201/904210348/1312&template=UHSports
"Every job is open except three." (HA)
About how only C Estes, QB Alexander, and DE Fonoti have nailed down starting jobs, Mac said:
"Everything else is competition. And that's good. Competition is making us better." (HA)
HA Note: "McMackin said the Warriors are "2 1/2 deep" at each of the four receiver positions. McMackin said he is not ready to declare the starting guards and tackles on the offensive line, whose No. 1 unit has remained intact all spring."
Mac praised the skill and athletic ability of the D, but said that the D is:
"not playing with emotion. That usually comes from leaders. If somebody makes a good play, everyone on defense needs to let that guy know he made a good play. Everyone is competing so hard for their positions, they haven't gotten to that point yet. That point will come naturally, and leaders will be born." (HA)
About how the depth chart will be fluid until the second week of Fall camp, Mac said:
"We may have to list some people No. 1 as starting points, but everything is open until the second week of training camp, with the exception of three positions." (HA)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090421/SPORTS0201/904210348/1312&template=UHSports
Quentin Beaver missed practice yesterday due to injury
About missing practice because of a strained rotator cuff in his right shoulder, Quentin Beaver (who aggravated the injury during Saturday's scrimmage) said:
"I wasn't supposed to be (playing in the scrimmage). I should have waited." (HA)
"I wasn't supposed to be (playing in the scrimmage). I should have waited." (HA)
Feature on Jeramy Bryant
About being buried by 293-pound John Estes on a sweep play, the 5'9", 170-pound Jeramy Bryant said:
"I tried to keep outside contain." (HA)
About his big block on Bryant, John Estes smiled and said:
"I didn't really want to hit him. He just bounced off of me." (HA)
About taking on Estes' block, Bryant said:
"I had to show my team I'm dedicated. No matter what, I'll do it." (HA)
HA Note: "Bryant, who redshirted last season after transferring from Los Angeles Harbor College, is the leading candidate for one of the starting jobs at corner. He also is practicing as a nickelback."
Praising Bryant, Mac said:
"Technically, he's very sound. He's smart. He has a great attitude. He can run. He has great anticipation on the ball. He's very aggressive. I'm very comfortable with him starting at corner for us." (HA)
HA Note: "Bryant is a stickler for details. On his first day of unsupervised workouts last summer, when teammates were going through passing drills, Bryant worked on his footwork. He weaved around orange cones. He also did high-step drills on a roped ladder placed on the grass field."
About why he works so hard on his footwork, Bryant said that DB coach:
"Miano always says you have to map everything out before you go out there. Details are important. The details compensate if you make a wrong break or a wrong read. If your footwork is right, you should be OK." (HA)
About making time for family, school, and football, Bryant said:
"If you prepare, there's time for everything. I want to get the best out of every situation. One of the coaches said don't let 'effort' be the reason you didn't get the job. If I can put in as many hours as I can, if God blesses me with the energy and the focus, there isn't any reason I can't give my team 100 percent." (HA)
HA Note: "Bryant and his wife, Keshauna, have a 2-year-old daughter, Jayana. They spend their free time at the zoo, the beach or visiting his aunt in Wai'anae. Bryant is part Chamorro, although he has never been to Guam."
About living in Hawaii, Bryant said:
"I don't think you can find people like the ones who live here anywhere else in the world. I've lived in a big city. I've been to a lot of places. The people here are so accepting." (HA)
"I tried to keep outside contain." (HA)
About his big block on Bryant, John Estes smiled and said:
"I didn't really want to hit him. He just bounced off of me." (HA)
About taking on Estes' block, Bryant said:
"I had to show my team I'm dedicated. No matter what, I'll do it." (HA)
HA Note: "Bryant, who redshirted last season after transferring from Los Angeles Harbor College, is the leading candidate for one of the starting jobs at corner. He also is practicing as a nickelback."
Praising Bryant, Mac said:
"Technically, he's very sound. He's smart. He has a great attitude. He can run. He has great anticipation on the ball. He's very aggressive. I'm very comfortable with him starting at corner for us." (HA)
HA Note: "Bryant is a stickler for details. On his first day of unsupervised workouts last summer, when teammates were going through passing drills, Bryant worked on his footwork. He weaved around orange cones. He also did high-step drills on a roped ladder placed on the grass field."
About why he works so hard on his footwork, Bryant said that DB coach:
"Miano always says you have to map everything out before you go out there. Details are important. The details compensate if you make a wrong break or a wrong read. If your footwork is right, you should be OK." (HA)
About making time for family, school, and football, Bryant said:
"If you prepare, there's time for everything. I want to get the best out of every situation. One of the coaches said don't let 'effort' be the reason you didn't get the job. If I can put in as many hours as I can, if God blesses me with the energy and the focus, there isn't any reason I can't give my team 100 percent." (HA)
HA Note: "Bryant and his wife, Keshauna, have a 2-year-old daughter, Jayana. They spend their free time at the zoo, the beach or visiting his aunt in Wai'anae. Bryant is part Chamorro, although he has never been to Guam."
About living in Hawaii, Bryant said:
"I don't think you can find people like the ones who live here anywhere else in the world. I've lived in a big city. I've been to a lot of places. The people here are so accepting." (HA)
Mana Lolotai has earned some first team reps at MLB
About the extra running he's been doing, Mana Lolotai said:
"Coach Cal (Lee) said the LBs have to be the most in-shape guys on the field. Coach expects a lot out of us as linebackers so we have to make sure we push ourselves." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Lolotai put in a solid day's work last Saturday and alternated with senior Brashton Satele at middle linebacker in yesterday's practice. Lolotai has been working primarily with the second unit during the spring, but got a few repetitions with the first unit after an impressive performance in last Saturday's scrimmage."
About getting reps at MLB with the first team D, Lolotai said:
"We have to know how to play with each other. Playing with the ones, I get that more fast-paced tempo." (HSB)
About Brashton Satele and Mana Lolotai both being at MLB, Mac said:
"They're two of our best players so we just have to find a spot for them. They're probably two of our top five players this spring." (HSB)
About how he didn't get many breaks during Saturday's scrimmage, Lolotai said:
"It was a mental gut check, you have to dig deep." (HSB)
About how he spends time with his 2-year-old daughter (Zaiah) when he's not in classes, meetings, or practice, Lolotai said:
"It keeps me more grounded, I have to be more focused. Not only do I have football, but I have responsibilities at home, too. It kind of works hand in hand." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090421_Digging_deep.html
"Coach Cal (Lee) said the LBs have to be the most in-shape guys on the field. Coach expects a lot out of us as linebackers so we have to make sure we push ourselves." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Lolotai put in a solid day's work last Saturday and alternated with senior Brashton Satele at middle linebacker in yesterday's practice. Lolotai has been working primarily with the second unit during the spring, but got a few repetitions with the first unit after an impressive performance in last Saturday's scrimmage."
About getting reps at MLB with the first team D, Lolotai said:
"We have to know how to play with each other. Playing with the ones, I get that more fast-paced tempo." (HSB)
About Brashton Satele and Mana Lolotai both being at MLB, Mac said:
"They're two of our best players so we just have to find a spot for them. They're probably two of our top five players this spring." (HSB)
About how he didn't get many breaks during Saturday's scrimmage, Lolotai said:
"It was a mental gut check, you have to dig deep." (HSB)
About how he spends time with his 2-year-old daughter (Zaiah) when he's not in classes, meetings, or practice, Lolotai said:
"It keeps me more grounded, I have to be more focused. Not only do I have football, but I have responsibilities at home, too. It kind of works hand in hand." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090421_Digging_deep.html
Richard Torres (5'7", 171 pounds) is UH's top nickel back
HSB Note: "Blitzing off the edge is one of the nickel back's main duties, sending the 5-foot-7, 171-pound sophomore against tackles Laupepa Letuli (6-4, 320) or Aaron Kia (6-5, 290) in practice."
About how Torres is an effective blitzer, Rich Miano said:
"People don't realize how quick he is. He turns the corner. He knows how to knife in there, he knows how to time up the cadence." (HSB)
About earning the #1 nickel back spot this spring, Richard Torres said:
"It's just more comfortable. I'm trying to limit the mistakes now that I understand the defense a lot more and be in position to make plays. Now I can react faster." (HSB)
About how he's been trying to add weight without reducing his speed, Torres said:
"God made me this way so I have to make do with it." (HSB)
About how Torres is an effective blitzer, Rich Miano said:
"People don't realize how quick he is. He turns the corner. He knows how to knife in there, he knows how to time up the cadence." (HSB)
About earning the #1 nickel back spot this spring, Richard Torres said:
"It's just more comfortable. I'm trying to limit the mistakes now that I understand the defense a lot more and be in position to make plays. Now I can react faster." (HSB)
About how he's been trying to add weight without reducing his speed, Torres said:
"God made me this way so I have to make do with it." (HSB)
Monday, April 20, 2009
Jake Ingram waits for the NFL draft
About how he's been working with a friend in his free time with side jobs like tree cutting or handy work, Jake Ingram said:
"It's always good to get in some hard work." (HSB)
About waiting for the draft, Ingram said:
"Before I wasn't really thinking about (the draft), but it's getting closer and I am starting to get a little anxious. To get a call and have a team have enough confidence to use a draft pick to select me, that would be unbelievable. Especially as a long snapper." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Ingram walked on at Hawaii with visions of contributing as a defensive end. But Jones saw value in Ingram's ability and reserved his action for punts and place-kicks. While it took Ingram a while to embrace his specialized role, he is now regarded as the top long snapper in this year's class."
About how NFL teams have been contacting him about Ingram, Jake's agent Wynn Silberman said:
"They've been in constant contact with us. Every team I've spoken to is very confident he's going to get drafted." (HSB)
About how he can't do much to change his draft status anymore, Ingram said:
"Now I have to just wait and see what happens." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090420_Ingram_working_for_the_weekend.html
"It's always good to get in some hard work." (HSB)
About waiting for the draft, Ingram said:
"Before I wasn't really thinking about (the draft), but it's getting closer and I am starting to get a little anxious. To get a call and have a team have enough confidence to use a draft pick to select me, that would be unbelievable. Especially as a long snapper." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Ingram walked on at Hawaii with visions of contributing as a defensive end. But Jones saw value in Ingram's ability and reserved his action for punts and place-kicks. While it took Ingram a while to embrace his specialized role, he is now regarded as the top long snapper in this year's class."
About how NFL teams have been contacting him about Ingram, Jake's agent Wynn Silberman said:
"They've been in constant contact with us. Every team I've spoken to is very confident he's going to get drafted." (HSB)
About how he can't do much to change his draft status anymore, Ingram said:
"Now I have to just wait and see what happens." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090420_Ingram_working_for_the_weekend.html
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Feature on UH's WRs
About how he asked a trainer to cut off the tape wrapped around his cleats after the scrimmage, Jovonte Taylor said:
"They're burning up." (HA)
About how he saw steam coming from the turf when he first approaches the artificial surface, Rodney Bradley (who is from Texas) said:
"I'm like, 'that can't be a heatwave?' I thought I was back home. It was kind of hot." (HA)
About how they are deep in quality WRs, Craig Stutzmann said:
"You look a lot better as a coach when you've got the thoroughbreds. The players we had last year did a good job. But this year we've got more overall speed, more depth. We've got guys who can flat-out run." (HA)
HA Note: "Bradley, who enrolled at UH in January after transferring from Navarro College, is capable of running 40 yards in under 4.4 seconds. He also had a long scoring catch in last week's scrimmage on Maui. His progress will enable Salas, last year' No. 1 left wideout, to play left slotback."
About how he wasn't at his best during the scrimmage, Bradley said:
"I'll let you in on a little secret: I was tired." (HA)
HA Note: "Taylor missed the final 2 1/2 months of the 2008 season after suffering from a viral infection. He lost 25 pounds, and was forced to withdraw from school."
About how he's over his health problem from last season, Taylor said:
"I'm healthy. I got all of my weight back. I got my strength back. My legs are strong. I'm ready to go." (HA)
About how he does not get many opportunities as their #3 right wideout (behind Lane and Pollard), Taylor said:
"The ball usually goes to the slot receivers." (HA)
About catching Shane Austin's pass for a long TD in the scrimmage, Taylor said:
"When I saw (Austin's pass), I had to accelerate to get it. I went up and grabbed it." (HA)
HA Note: "UH coach Greg McMackin said improving overall speed was one of his goals when he was hired in January 2008. McMackin brought in five speedy receivers last year — Taylor, Blount, Henry, Mike Tinoco and Craig Bell. All redshirted."
About redshirting the WRs he brought in before last season, Mac said:
"We wanted to give them an extra year to learn the system." (HA)
HA Note: "Bradley and Billy Ray Stutzmann, who completed his studies at Saint Louis School a semester early, enrolled in January, enabling them to participate in the offseason conditioning program and spring training."
About going for more speed at WR, Mac said:
"We're going to evolve to a speed team." (HA)
About their depth at receiver, Henry said:
"We have a lot of depth at each (receiver) position. Everyone is trying to prove themselves. It's friendly competition, but we're all trying to make plays." (HA)
About how they have a few hundred people watching their scrimmage, Stutzmann said:
"When there's a crowd out there, some people take a step back. It was good to see we had some guys step up. If we can continue that, and make strides in training camp and going into the first game, we're going to have a very good receiving corps." (HA)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090419/SPORTS0201/904190374/1312&template=UHSports
"They're burning up." (HA)
About how he saw steam coming from the turf when he first approaches the artificial surface, Rodney Bradley (who is from Texas) said:
"I'm like, 'that can't be a heatwave?' I thought I was back home. It was kind of hot." (HA)
About how they are deep in quality WRs, Craig Stutzmann said:
"You look a lot better as a coach when you've got the thoroughbreds. The players we had last year did a good job. But this year we've got more overall speed, more depth. We've got guys who can flat-out run." (HA)
HA Note: "Bradley, who enrolled at UH in January after transferring from Navarro College, is capable of running 40 yards in under 4.4 seconds. He also had a long scoring catch in last week's scrimmage on Maui. His progress will enable Salas, last year' No. 1 left wideout, to play left slotback."
About how he wasn't at his best during the scrimmage, Bradley said:
"I'll let you in on a little secret: I was tired." (HA)
HA Note: "Taylor missed the final 2 1/2 months of the 2008 season after suffering from a viral infection. He lost 25 pounds, and was forced to withdraw from school."
About how he's over his health problem from last season, Taylor said:
"I'm healthy. I got all of my weight back. I got my strength back. My legs are strong. I'm ready to go." (HA)
About how he does not get many opportunities as their #3 right wideout (behind Lane and Pollard), Taylor said:
"The ball usually goes to the slot receivers." (HA)
About catching Shane Austin's pass for a long TD in the scrimmage, Taylor said:
"When I saw (Austin's pass), I had to accelerate to get it. I went up and grabbed it." (HA)
HA Note: "UH coach Greg McMackin said improving overall speed was one of his goals when he was hired in January 2008. McMackin brought in five speedy receivers last year — Taylor, Blount, Henry, Mike Tinoco and Craig Bell. All redshirted."
About redshirting the WRs he brought in before last season, Mac said:
"We wanted to give them an extra year to learn the system." (HA)
HA Note: "Bradley and Billy Ray Stutzmann, who completed his studies at Saint Louis School a semester early, enrolled in January, enabling them to participate in the offseason conditioning program and spring training."
About going for more speed at WR, Mac said:
"We're going to evolve to a speed team." (HA)
About their depth at receiver, Henry said:
"We have a lot of depth at each (receiver) position. Everyone is trying to prove themselves. It's friendly competition, but we're all trying to make plays." (HA)
About how they have a few hundred people watching their scrimmage, Stutzmann said:
"When there's a crowd out there, some people take a step back. It was good to see we had some guys step up. If we can continue that, and make strides in training camp and going into the first game, we're going to have a very good receiving corps." (HA)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090419/SPORTS0201/904190374/1312&template=UHSports
Feature on Brent Rausch
HSB Note: "The same week he was dubbed the chosen one to lead the Warriors into The Swamp against Florida, Rausch's laser-like accuracy abandoned him at an Aloha Stadium scrimmage. A sore arm was blamed, and we rarely saw him again. Greg Alexander, Inoke Funaki and Tyler Graunke all started games, but not Rausch."
hsB Note: "That Brennan-like run came after Rausch had thrown an interception to end his first series, making the streak of success all the more impressive to the UH coaches. The wide-eyed JC-transfer sophomore was prone to more mistakes after making one. The rising junior with the playbook on speed dial shakes them off."
About Rausch, who completed 7 straiaght passes after throwing an INT to end his first series in the scrimmage, Mac said:
"His attitude is great. He didn't have a particularly good scrimmage on Maui last week, but he came back and had a great week. We've still got to look at the tape, but I think he had a good one today." (HSB)
HSB Note: "The numbers look pretty sweet: 10-for-13 for 90 yards. After the pick, 8-for-9."
About Rausch, Rolo said:
"Brent's got an arm not a whole lot of guys have. He's worked on his discipline and his consistency. He's got a gun, but we want him to anticipate more." (HSB)
About how Rausch wasn't ready to take over from Colt last year, Rolo said:
"That probably didn't help him at that point. He put some stuff on himself. He had to learn to let it go, and he has." (HSB)
Asked for his take on what happened with him last year, Rausch said:
"Over with." (HSB)
About going from the #1 QB in camp to not playing, Rausch said:
"It was definitely a learning experience. I was humbled, going from last on the depth chart to the top and back down." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Rausch is steadier. His shoulders don't hunch after a bad play anymore. Teammates and coaches notice that kind of thing, especially when it's a quarterback."
About how experience is very helpful in their offense, Rolo said:
"It's amazing what a year of experience will do in this offense." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/columnists/furtherreview/20090419_further_review.html
hsB Note: "That Brennan-like run came after Rausch had thrown an interception to end his first series, making the streak of success all the more impressive to the UH coaches. The wide-eyed JC-transfer sophomore was prone to more mistakes after making one. The rising junior with the playbook on speed dial shakes them off."
About Rausch, who completed 7 straiaght passes after throwing an INT to end his first series in the scrimmage, Mac said:
"His attitude is great. He didn't have a particularly good scrimmage on Maui last week, but he came back and had a great week. We've still got to look at the tape, but I think he had a good one today." (HSB)
HSB Note: "The numbers look pretty sweet: 10-for-13 for 90 yards. After the pick, 8-for-9."
About Rausch, Rolo said:
"Brent's got an arm not a whole lot of guys have. He's worked on his discipline and his consistency. He's got a gun, but we want him to anticipate more." (HSB)
About how Rausch wasn't ready to take over from Colt last year, Rolo said:
"That probably didn't help him at that point. He put some stuff on himself. He had to learn to let it go, and he has." (HSB)
Asked for his take on what happened with him last year, Rausch said:
"Over with." (HSB)
About going from the #1 QB in camp to not playing, Rausch said:
"It was definitely a learning experience. I was humbled, going from last on the depth chart to the top and back down." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Rausch is steadier. His shoulders don't hunch after a bad play anymore. Teammates and coaches notice that kind of thing, especially when it's a quarterback."
About how experience is very helpful in their offense, Rolo said:
"It's amazing what a year of experience will do in this offense." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/columnists/furtherreview/20090419_further_review.html
Feature on UH's scrimmage
About their scrimmage, which had 3 TDs by the offense early and a lot of success for the defense later in the scrimmage, Mac said:
"The good thing about being a head coach is when the offense is making big plays, I was coaching offense. When the defense was making big plays, I was coaching defense." (HSB)
Praising Mana Lolotai's play at MLB in the scrimmage, Mac said:
"I thought Mana Lolotai was just outstanding. He's been playing like that all spring. (Linebackers coach) Cal (Lee) and I have to look at the film, but he's playing pretty good at middle linebacker." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Working against the second-team defense, Greg Alexander went 7-for-9 in leading the offense's first unit to a touchdown on the first drive of the scrimmage. He completed a 28-yard touchdown pass to Rodney Bradley on a post pattern, then converted the extra point when Greg Salas made a leaping grab. Brent Rausch rebounded from an interception by safety Mana Silva to operate a scoring drive capped by Jayson Rego's TD run against the defensive starters. Shane Austin later connected with speedy wideout Jovonte Taylor on a 42-yard touchdown."
About his 42-yard TD reception during the scrimmage, Jovonte Taylor said:
"I've been waiting since spring started (to make a big play). When they do give us a chance, you have to go up and make the play." (HSB)
HSB Note: "With about 250 high school coaches lining the boundaries of Ching Field following a clinic yesterday morning, the performances of the newcomers tightened an already crowded competition for playing time at the receiver spots."
About the success of their WRs in the scrimmage, Craig Stutzmann said:
"Whenever you've got live bullets coming and you've got a crowd, a lot of times guys will either step up their game or take a step back. For Jovonte and for Rodney and some of the younger guys to come out and really step up their game is a really good sign for us." (HSB)
About being able to hit in the scrimmage, Lolotai said:
"During regular practice you can't really take anyone to the ground, so today was a good day to release all that." (HSB)
About the scrimmage, Mac said:
"It was a good show on both sides. A lot of good things and then a lot of things we have to work on." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090419_warriors_make_big_plays.html
"The good thing about being a head coach is when the offense is making big plays, I was coaching offense. When the defense was making big plays, I was coaching defense." (HSB)
Praising Mana Lolotai's play at MLB in the scrimmage, Mac said:
"I thought Mana Lolotai was just outstanding. He's been playing like that all spring. (Linebackers coach) Cal (Lee) and I have to look at the film, but he's playing pretty good at middle linebacker." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Working against the second-team defense, Greg Alexander went 7-for-9 in leading the offense's first unit to a touchdown on the first drive of the scrimmage. He completed a 28-yard touchdown pass to Rodney Bradley on a post pattern, then converted the extra point when Greg Salas made a leaping grab. Brent Rausch rebounded from an interception by safety Mana Silva to operate a scoring drive capped by Jayson Rego's TD run against the defensive starters. Shane Austin later connected with speedy wideout Jovonte Taylor on a 42-yard touchdown."
About his 42-yard TD reception during the scrimmage, Jovonte Taylor said:
"I've been waiting since spring started (to make a big play). When they do give us a chance, you have to go up and make the play." (HSB)
HSB Note: "With about 250 high school coaches lining the boundaries of Ching Field following a clinic yesterday morning, the performances of the newcomers tightened an already crowded competition for playing time at the receiver spots."
About the success of their WRs in the scrimmage, Craig Stutzmann said:
"Whenever you've got live bullets coming and you've got a crowd, a lot of times guys will either step up their game or take a step back. For Jovonte and for Rodney and some of the younger guys to come out and really step up their game is a really good sign for us." (HSB)
About being able to hit in the scrimmage, Lolotai said:
"During regular practice you can't really take anyone to the ground, so today was a good day to release all that." (HSB)
About the scrimmage, Mac said:
"It was a good show on both sides. A lot of good things and then a lot of things we have to work on." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090419_warriors_make_big_plays.html
Mike Tresler was back at UH for the Coaches Clinic
HSB Note: "Mike Tresler remembered his days as one of those players toiling at the practice field on a sweltering afternoon. For the last seven years, the former Hawaii defensive back has been the one barking instructions during Kauai High School's practices. He returned to Manoa yesterday to pick up some tips in the second Warrior Football Coaches Clinic."
About how the Coaches Clinic is helpful, Mike Tresler said:
"It's pretty open -- you get good information, good sharing, I learned a lot. And being an alumni, coming back, it's a little more special." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Tresler, who twice earned second-team All-WAC honors in the late 1980s, was among the former UH players who have moved into coaching and took part in the clinic, which drew about 250 youth and high school coaches. Punahou head coach Kale Ane and UH assistants Chris Tormey, Gordy Shaw and Tony Tuioti were the featured speakers in the morning session. The coaches then broke into position groups and most stuck around for the Warriors' practice in the afternoon."
About learning techniques at the Coaches Clinic that he can use to benefit his players, Tresler said:
"As far as I'm concerned we have a responsibility to coach kids the newest and best techniques so they can perform at their best and they're safer. It's like any profession you need to study and need to learn." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090419_coaches_clinic_brings_tresler_back.html
About how the Coaches Clinic is helpful, Mike Tresler said:
"It's pretty open -- you get good information, good sharing, I learned a lot. And being an alumni, coming back, it's a little more special." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Tresler, who twice earned second-team All-WAC honors in the late 1980s, was among the former UH players who have moved into coaching and took part in the clinic, which drew about 250 youth and high school coaches. Punahou head coach Kale Ane and UH assistants Chris Tormey, Gordy Shaw and Tony Tuioti were the featured speakers in the morning session. The coaches then broke into position groups and most stuck around for the Warriors' practice in the afternoon."
About learning techniques at the Coaches Clinic that he can use to benefit his players, Tresler said:
"As far as I'm concerned we have a responsibility to coach kids the newest and best techniques so they can perform at their best and they're safer. It's like any profession you need to study and need to learn." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090419_coaches_clinic_brings_tresler_back.html
Jeramy Bryant learned that Mac will not tolerate taunting
About how he had the biggest hit during team drills, when he knocked down Ryan Henry (who held on for the reception), Jeramy Bryant said:
"It was a good hit, but what happened after got me in trouble." (HA)
About how he stood over Henry, getting an unsportmanalike penalty, Bryant said:
"It was a mistake, and I learned from it right away." (HA)
About his close friendship with Henry, who he knew when they attended JCs in California, Bryant said:
"We're always getting real competitive with each other in video games and in the weight room. He's like my brother. It's a friendly competition. It wasn't anything dirty." (HA)
About how Bryant's hit was clean, Henry said:
"We're cool. We don't hold grudges. We go out and play hard. I don't expect him to do anything else. And I'm glad I held on. It was a good play on both sides." (HA)
About how he will not tolerate any taunting, Mac said:
"I'm not going to put up with any of that stuff. I checked with the officials here and on Maui last week. We're going to cut down on penalties. We had 28 holding penalties last year. (Offensive line coach) Gordy Shaw is doing a good job, making sure our hands are in when we block. We have four practices left to continue to get better." (HA)
"It was a good hit, but what happened after got me in trouble." (HA)
About how he stood over Henry, getting an unsportmanalike penalty, Bryant said:
"It was a mistake, and I learned from it right away." (HA)
About his close friendship with Henry, who he knew when they attended JCs in California, Bryant said:
"We're always getting real competitive with each other in video games and in the weight room. He's like my brother. It's a friendly competition. It wasn't anything dirty." (HA)
About how Bryant's hit was clean, Henry said:
"We're cool. We don't hold grudges. We go out and play hard. I don't expect him to do anything else. And I'm glad I held on. It was a good play on both sides." (HA)
About how he will not tolerate any taunting, Mac said:
"I'm not going to put up with any of that stuff. I checked with the officials here and on Maui last week. We're going to cut down on penalties. We had 28 holding penalties last year. (Offensive line coach) Gordy Shaw is doing a good job, making sure our hands are in when we block. We have four practices left to continue to get better." (HA)
Mana Lolotai earned praise for his physical play
About the 6 turnovers the defense forced in yesterday's scrimmage, Rich Miano said:
"That's how you win games." (HA)
Praising Mana Lolotai, who was on the first team because MLB Brashton Satele was out with a tweaked shoulder, Mac said:
"Mana Lolotai was all over the field. He's physical." (HA)
"That's how you win games." (HA)
Praising Mana Lolotai, who was on the first team because MLB Brashton Satele was out with a tweaked shoulder, Mac said:
"Mana Lolotai was all over the field. He's physical." (HA)
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Coaches Clinic and Warrior Practice/Scrimmage today
About the long, busy day that their coaching staff will have, Mac said:
"But it's worth it." (HSB)
HSB Note :"The staff hosts the second Warrior Football Coaches Clinic this morning, then conducts a practice and scrimmage in the afternoon. The clinic is open for coaches of all levels and has attracted participants from Samoa and Japan this year. Registration begins at 8 a.m., with McMackin addressing the coaches at 9:15 a.m. Punahou head coach Kale Ane will speak on the "psychology of coaching," and new UH assistants Chris Tormey and Gordy Shaw will lead sessions on special teams and offensive line play. The offensive and defensive coaches will lead breakout sessions after lunch."
Looking forward to their coaches clinic, Mac said:
"It's really exciting having the coaches here. We want to do a good job for the coaches because we're all in it for Hawaii." (HSB)
About how they will play some of their first team players in today's scrimmage after they sat out the Maui scrimmage, Mac said:
"We're going to play more of our veteran guys and just get more reps. We've put other things in, so we're going to take a look and let them compete." (HSB)
Note: Practice is scheduled for 3pm at Ching Field, with the scrimmage scheduled to start around 4pm.
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090418_Big_day_for_UH_coaches.html
"But it's worth it." (HSB)
HSB Note :"The staff hosts the second Warrior Football Coaches Clinic this morning, then conducts a practice and scrimmage in the afternoon. The clinic is open for coaches of all levels and has attracted participants from Samoa and Japan this year. Registration begins at 8 a.m., with McMackin addressing the coaches at 9:15 a.m. Punahou head coach Kale Ane will speak on the "psychology of coaching," and new UH assistants Chris Tormey and Gordy Shaw will lead sessions on special teams and offensive line play. The offensive and defensive coaches will lead breakout sessions after lunch."
Looking forward to their coaches clinic, Mac said:
"It's really exciting having the coaches here. We want to do a good job for the coaches because we're all in it for Hawaii." (HSB)
About how they will play some of their first team players in today's scrimmage after they sat out the Maui scrimmage, Mac said:
"We're going to play more of our veteran guys and just get more reps. We've put other things in, so we're going to take a look and let them compete." (HSB)
Note: Practice is scheduled for 3pm at Ching Field, with the scrimmage scheduled to start around 4pm.
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090418_Big_day_for_UH_coaches.html
Friday, April 17, 2009
Jesse Sapolu spoke at practice yesterday
HA Note: "Moments after San Francisco defeated Chicago, 28-3, in the 1988 NFC Championship game, 49er center Jesse Sapolu approached Bears quarterback Jim McMahon and said: "This is payback for all of those years." Sapolu added: "He started laughing." The true measure of a Hawai'i football player is his feelings toward longtime rival Brigham Young. Sapolu's teams never beat BYU (twice led by McMahon) in his four seasons as UH center."
About his feelings towards BYU, Jesse Sapolu said:
"BYU will always be my rival." (HA)
HA Note: "Sapolu recalled the BYU quarterbacks his teams faced were Marc Wilson, McMahon and Steve Young — all record setters. Young is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame."
Joking about how mature the BYU players were, Sapolu said:
"They were four years older than us when we played. I played with (BYU graduate) Bart Oates with the 49ers, and he was a good four years older than me. We were seniors together." (HA)
About having Sapolu talking to them about the importance of team unity, Aaron Kia said:
"I look up to the man. He was a beast when he played." (HA)
About how Sapolu's message had special meaning for the members of the OL, Kia said:
"He was coming from the offensive linemen's perspective. I liked when he told us that the (49er) linemen only needed a head nod (to communicate calls). You want to get to that level where it's automatic, no static." (HA)
About how his parents grew up in Redwood City, where the 49ers used to hold training camp, John Estes said:
"We were all 49er fans, all the way through my grandparents. We knew everything about them. It was really cool to see him out here." (HA)
Pointing to the small grass hill bordering UH's practice field, Sapolu said:
"We used to run up these hills. Back then, it was dirt. Hard dirt. Now everything is so nice and manicured." (HA)
About how he still considers himself a "shy kid from Kalihi", Sapolu said:
"When I think back, it's, how did I get here? There were some twists and turns. It it weren't for certain people who helped me, I could have gone the wrong way." (HA)
HA Note: "He said he received guidance from Al Espinda, his head football coach at Farrington High, and Gordon Miyashiro, the offensive line coach."
Sapolu remembers Miyashiro:
"not screaming at me, but talking to me. 'These are your possibilities if you straighten up and believe in yourself and go to class and do the right things.' It was one of the first times I played for a coach who was really positive with me." (HA)
HA Note: "Sapolu has two sons playing football. London Sapolu is at Orange Coast Community College. Roman Sapolu is at Edison High in Huntington Beach, Calif."
About how both sons received offers from the Warriors and he hopes one or both of them plays for UH, Sapolu said:
"I would like one or both of my sons to come here. It would be nice to hear that name here again. It's been a while. I would be proud to see one of my sons be a Warrior. That would be the closest way for them to feel what I felt when I played here. Times are different, but we can still talk about things that are the same, like the dorms." (HA)
About how the facilities at UH are better now than when he played, Sapolu said:
"I'm a little jealous. The facilities are much nicer." (HSB)
About having Sapolu talk to the team during a break about halfway through yesterday's practice, Mac said:
"Our tradition is built by the great players we've had here at Hawaii. ... He's a legend. He's somebody who we're really proud of at the University of Hawaii, who made it not only in sports but in life, and he's a great example to this football team." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Sapolu played for UH from 1979 to '82 and went on to a 15-year career with the 49ers, a mainstay at center during San Francisco's run of championships in the 1980s and '90s. He returned to Hawaii to play in the Pro Bowl three times and was inducted into the UH Circle of Honor in 2000."
About how it was great to have Sapolu talk with their team, John Estes said:
"It's just cool to see him out here. I tried to soak up what he said and listen to him. He's been there and played at the highest level. Four-time Super Bowl champion -- not that many people can say that." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Sapolu was among the offensive linemen from those early '80s teams who went on to distinguished careers after UH. Among those he played with were UH athletic director Jim Donovan and Kauai mayor Bernard Carvalho. Jim Mills was recently elected to the Canadian Football Hall of Fame. Sapolu lives in Orange County, but still works for the 49ers as an alumni coordinator. He hopes he'll be able to watch one of his sons play at UH someday. London Sapolu is a defensive tackle at Orange Coast College. Roman Sapolu is a junior center at Edison High School, and recently committed to Oregon State, though Hawaii has offered him a scholarship as well."
About how schools offer scholarships much earlier than when he played, Sapolu said:
"They didn't offer me anything until my senior year and then they all came at one time, but things are different now." (HSB)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090417/SPORTS0201/904170366/1312&template=UHSports
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090417_sapolu_pays_a_visit.html
About his feelings towards BYU, Jesse Sapolu said:
"BYU will always be my rival." (HA)
HA Note: "Sapolu recalled the BYU quarterbacks his teams faced were Marc Wilson, McMahon and Steve Young — all record setters. Young is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame."
Joking about how mature the BYU players were, Sapolu said:
"They were four years older than us when we played. I played with (BYU graduate) Bart Oates with the 49ers, and he was a good four years older than me. We were seniors together." (HA)
About having Sapolu talking to them about the importance of team unity, Aaron Kia said:
"I look up to the man. He was a beast when he played." (HA)
About how Sapolu's message had special meaning for the members of the OL, Kia said:
"He was coming from the offensive linemen's perspective. I liked when he told us that the (49er) linemen only needed a head nod (to communicate calls). You want to get to that level where it's automatic, no static." (HA)
About how his parents grew up in Redwood City, where the 49ers used to hold training camp, John Estes said:
"We were all 49er fans, all the way through my grandparents. We knew everything about them. It was really cool to see him out here." (HA)
Pointing to the small grass hill bordering UH's practice field, Sapolu said:
"We used to run up these hills. Back then, it was dirt. Hard dirt. Now everything is so nice and manicured." (HA)
About how he still considers himself a "shy kid from Kalihi", Sapolu said:
"When I think back, it's, how did I get here? There were some twists and turns. It it weren't for certain people who helped me, I could have gone the wrong way." (HA)
HA Note: "He said he received guidance from Al Espinda, his head football coach at Farrington High, and Gordon Miyashiro, the offensive line coach."
Sapolu remembers Miyashiro:
"not screaming at me, but talking to me. 'These are your possibilities if you straighten up and believe in yourself and go to class and do the right things.' It was one of the first times I played for a coach who was really positive with me." (HA)
HA Note: "Sapolu has two sons playing football. London Sapolu is at Orange Coast Community College. Roman Sapolu is at Edison High in Huntington Beach, Calif."
About how both sons received offers from the Warriors and he hopes one or both of them plays for UH, Sapolu said:
"I would like one or both of my sons to come here. It would be nice to hear that name here again. It's been a while. I would be proud to see one of my sons be a Warrior. That would be the closest way for them to feel what I felt when I played here. Times are different, but we can still talk about things that are the same, like the dorms." (HA)
About how the facilities at UH are better now than when he played, Sapolu said:
"I'm a little jealous. The facilities are much nicer." (HSB)
About having Sapolu talk to the team during a break about halfway through yesterday's practice, Mac said:
"Our tradition is built by the great players we've had here at Hawaii. ... He's a legend. He's somebody who we're really proud of at the University of Hawaii, who made it not only in sports but in life, and he's a great example to this football team." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Sapolu played for UH from 1979 to '82 and went on to a 15-year career with the 49ers, a mainstay at center during San Francisco's run of championships in the 1980s and '90s. He returned to Hawaii to play in the Pro Bowl three times and was inducted into the UH Circle of Honor in 2000."
About how it was great to have Sapolu talk with their team, John Estes said:
"It's just cool to see him out here. I tried to soak up what he said and listen to him. He's been there and played at the highest level. Four-time Super Bowl champion -- not that many people can say that." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Sapolu was among the offensive linemen from those early '80s teams who went on to distinguished careers after UH. Among those he played with were UH athletic director Jim Donovan and Kauai mayor Bernard Carvalho. Jim Mills was recently elected to the Canadian Football Hall of Fame. Sapolu lives in Orange County, but still works for the 49ers as an alumni coordinator. He hopes he'll be able to watch one of his sons play at UH someday. London Sapolu is a defensive tackle at Orange Coast College. Roman Sapolu is a junior center at Edison High School, and recently committed to Oregon State, though Hawaii has offered him a scholarship as well."
About how schools offer scholarships much earlier than when he played, Sapolu said:
"They didn't offer me anything until my senior year and then they all came at one time, but things are different now." (HSB)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090417/SPORTS0201/904170366/1312&template=UHSports
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090417_sapolu_pays_a_visit.html
Feature on R.J. Kiesel-Kauhane
About how he talked with his cousin Blaze about how it would be great for them to both start at OLB for the Warriors, RJ said:
"Growing up as kids we were always talking about sports every time we'd see each other. When we first came (to UH) he was talking to me about how cool it would be for both of us to be starting on opposite sides and it would be good for the family. Hopefully he gets better and I stay healthy." (HSB)
About how Sol and Adam left some big shoes to fill, Cal Lee said about RJ that "his feet are getting bigger" and:
"I just think it's his time. Last year is last year, and we love the guys we had last year. But it's R.J.'s time." (HSB)
Not taking a starting spot for granted, considering things "always in pencil", RJ said:
"It makes you work harder just knowing your job is not promised." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Kiesel-Kauhane is among the strongest members of the team, but he focused more of his energy on developing speed rather than strength in preparing for his senior season. He went through a regimen of agility drills and plyometrics designed to enhance his quickness."
About working on his quickness instead of strength this offseason, RJ said:
"I didn't want to get too bulky like the previous years. I was coming in strong, but my speed wasn't how I wanted it to be. The speed workouts helped me, I can feel it. I'm not second-guessing my speed any more, but there's always room for improvement." (HSB)
HSB Note: "That's not to say he sacrificed much in strength. Kiesel-Kauhane bench-pressed 5 pounds less in testing this spring than he did a year ago, but still maxed out at a robust 450 pounds, good for second on the team behind defensive tackle Tuika Tufaga's 455. He ranked in the top five on the team in most of the categories tested."
About how Cory Paredes has been working opposite RJ with the first team with Blaze out with injury and Paipai limited to noncontact drills, Cal Lee said:
"Cory can run and he's shown he can play." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090417_strongman.html
"Growing up as kids we were always talking about sports every time we'd see each other. When we first came (to UH) he was talking to me about how cool it would be for both of us to be starting on opposite sides and it would be good for the family. Hopefully he gets better and I stay healthy." (HSB)
About how Sol and Adam left some big shoes to fill, Cal Lee said about RJ that "his feet are getting bigger" and:
"I just think it's his time. Last year is last year, and we love the guys we had last year. But it's R.J.'s time." (HSB)
Not taking a starting spot for granted, considering things "always in pencil", RJ said:
"It makes you work harder just knowing your job is not promised." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Kiesel-Kauhane is among the strongest members of the team, but he focused more of his energy on developing speed rather than strength in preparing for his senior season. He went through a regimen of agility drills and plyometrics designed to enhance his quickness."
About working on his quickness instead of strength this offseason, RJ said:
"I didn't want to get too bulky like the previous years. I was coming in strong, but my speed wasn't how I wanted it to be. The speed workouts helped me, I can feel it. I'm not second-guessing my speed any more, but there's always room for improvement." (HSB)
HSB Note: "That's not to say he sacrificed much in strength. Kiesel-Kauhane bench-pressed 5 pounds less in testing this spring than he did a year ago, but still maxed out at a robust 450 pounds, good for second on the team behind defensive tackle Tuika Tufaga's 455. He ranked in the top five on the team in most of the categories tested."
About how Cory Paredes has been working opposite RJ with the first team with Blaze out with injury and Paipai limited to noncontact drills, Cal Lee said:
"Cory can run and he's shown he can play." (HSB)
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090417_strongman.html
Feature on WRs Rodney Bradley and Mike Tinoco
About the post pattern he ran yesterday for a long scoring pass, where he was at least 3 yards ahead of the CB and S when he caught the pass, Rodney Bradley said:
"I like running the post. It's an easier route for me. I get to use my speed." (HA)
About his scoring pass to Bradley, Greg Alexander said:
"We actually called a post lock on that play. It was a great call for that coverage. He just beat the (corner), really. I had to get it to him. He's a fast guy. I just had to put some air under (the pass) and let him run under it." (HA)
About how Salas will play at either slot or wideout, Mac said:
"He can play both. He's quick enough to play inside, and he gives us a big target there. We can use him like (the New England Patriots) use Randy Moss." (HA)
About how Mike Tinoco has been practicing as a #2 wideout recently, Mac said:
"He's really coming on. He's doing some good things." (HA)
HA Note: "Tinoco arrived in Hawai'i in May 2008 after completing his studies at Saddleback. He participated in the summer conditioning program and all of the unsupervised passing drills. Despite the head start, he struggled to master the routes and read defenses. Near the end of training camp, McMackin suggested that Tinoco consider redshirting."
About how he benefited by redshirting and being on their scout team offense last season, Tinoco said:
"I was going against guys like Ryan Mouton. It was great work." (HA)
About how Tinoco is "playing faster" because he understands the offense better, Ron Lee said:
"He's doing a good job. We're giving him a lot of reps, and he's getting better. We're still battling to set the depth chart. There's nothing set yet." (HA)
About how he's better this year, Tinoco said:
"I'm not really making mistakes like I did last year." (HA)
HA Note: "He also has been helped by switching majors, from civil engineering to business, with an emphasis on accounting. The business school accepted most of his junior-college credits."
About how he did his taxes (he worked for 4 months at a hardware store last year) this year, Tinoco said:
"I got some money back. That was pretty sweet." (HA)
"I like running the post. It's an easier route for me. I get to use my speed." (HA)
About his scoring pass to Bradley, Greg Alexander said:
"We actually called a post lock on that play. It was a great call for that coverage. He just beat the (corner), really. I had to get it to him. He's a fast guy. I just had to put some air under (the pass) and let him run under it." (HA)
About how Salas will play at either slot or wideout, Mac said:
"He can play both. He's quick enough to play inside, and he gives us a big target there. We can use him like (the New England Patriots) use Randy Moss." (HA)
About how Mike Tinoco has been practicing as a #2 wideout recently, Mac said:
"He's really coming on. He's doing some good things." (HA)
HA Note: "Tinoco arrived in Hawai'i in May 2008 after completing his studies at Saddleback. He participated in the summer conditioning program and all of the unsupervised passing drills. Despite the head start, he struggled to master the routes and read defenses. Near the end of training camp, McMackin suggested that Tinoco consider redshirting."
About how he benefited by redshirting and being on their scout team offense last season, Tinoco said:
"I was going against guys like Ryan Mouton. It was great work." (HA)
About how Tinoco is "playing faster" because he understands the offense better, Ron Lee said:
"He's doing a good job. We're giving him a lot of reps, and he's getting better. We're still battling to set the depth chart. There's nothing set yet." (HA)
About how he's better this year, Tinoco said:
"I'm not really making mistakes like I did last year." (HA)
HA Note: "He also has been helped by switching majors, from civil engineering to business, with an emphasis on accounting. The business school accepted most of his junior-college credits."
About how he did his taxes (he worked for 4 months at a hardware store last year) this year, Tinoco said:
"I got some money back. That was pretty sweet." (HA)
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Rocky Savaiigaea returned to team drills!
About his first practice since last fall due to his left tricep injury, Rocky said:
"For the first day, it feels good." (HA)
"It felt good to get out there and run. I haven't run after a quarterback in a while." (HSB)
HA Note: "In the first week of the 2008 training camp, Savaiigaea suffered a tear to his left triceps. He tried to heal through aggressive rehabilitation. But he aggravated the injury, and then underwent surgery. The surgeon drilled two holes into a bone. The tendons were attached, then looped through the bone for added support."
About his surgery, Rocky said:
"That gave it stability." (HA)
HA Note: "Savaiigaea was cleared to participate in most of the offseason workouts. During spring training, he competed in position drills, but not the full-contact team drills."
About how he has been having "a lot of pain lately," but he was told that was normal, Rocky said:
"'It's a lot of scar tissue breaking off. That's why it's a little sore here and there. You have to push through it." (HA)
HA Note: "Yesterday, he competed as a left tackle in the base scheme (4-3 alignment) and nose tackle in the Okie defense (3-3-5)."
About how he prefers the left side, where his right hand is planted, Rocky said:
"I can play heavy with my right arm. I've always been a left-side tackle. That's my comfort zone." (HA)
About practicing yesterday, Rocky said:
"It feels good to get out there and run around. I haven't really run around like that in the spring." (HA)
About how he's sitting out the inside running periods where DTs often have to take on double teams, Rocky said:
"Coach (Greg McMackin) said there's no reason to get hurt and start from scratch again. Just do what you can and come fall that's when you want to be 100 percent." (HSB)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090416/SPORTS0201/904160353/-1&template=UHSports
"For the first day, it feels good." (HA)
"It felt good to get out there and run. I haven't run after a quarterback in a while." (HSB)
HA Note: "In the first week of the 2008 training camp, Savaiigaea suffered a tear to his left triceps. He tried to heal through aggressive rehabilitation. But he aggravated the injury, and then underwent surgery. The surgeon drilled two holes into a bone. The tendons were attached, then looped through the bone for added support."
About his surgery, Rocky said:
"That gave it stability." (HA)
HA Note: "Savaiigaea was cleared to participate in most of the offseason workouts. During spring training, he competed in position drills, but not the full-contact team drills."
About how he has been having "a lot of pain lately," but he was told that was normal, Rocky said:
"'It's a lot of scar tissue breaking off. That's why it's a little sore here and there. You have to push through it." (HA)
HA Note: "Yesterday, he competed as a left tackle in the base scheme (4-3 alignment) and nose tackle in the Okie defense (3-3-5)."
About how he prefers the left side, where his right hand is planted, Rocky said:
"I can play heavy with my right arm. I've always been a left-side tackle. That's my comfort zone." (HA)
About practicing yesterday, Rocky said:
"It feels good to get out there and run around. I haven't really run around like that in the spring." (HA)
About how he's sitting out the inside running periods where DTs often have to take on double teams, Rocky said:
"Coach (Greg McMackin) said there's no reason to get hurt and start from scratch again. Just do what you can and come fall that's when you want to be 100 percent." (HSB)
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090416/SPORTS0201/904160353/-1&template=UHSports
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