About how he feels that he's competing with himself and no freshman kicker Tyler Hadden, even though Hadden was rated the #10 college-bound kicker in the nation, Scott Enos said
"I just gotta compete with myself. Ultimately, I'm the one who has to put it through the uprights. Just trying to be more consistent." (HSA)
About his competition with senior Scott Enos, Hadden (who is now injured and cannot kick in practices now) said:
"I really have nothing to lose. Scott's a senior, but I came in to compete. I'm just kind of waiting ... now's time for competition, so it's kind of hard (to watch from the side)." (HSA)
About their competition at kicker, special teams coach Chris Tormey said:
"You always want to have competition. (We'll name a guy) as soon as possible, but we're not in a hurry to make a decision. The best guy's gonna play." (HSA)
About how it is critical that their kickers get the ball off quickly for FGs and PATs, Tormey said:
"It's not about how many you make. Can you get the ball off quickly? Tyler's really sound fundamentally ... Scott's a lot more comfortable in that regard (than he was)." (HSA)
HSA Note: "The incumbent Enos estimated his average time is 1.25 seconds this fall, down from between 1.3 and 1.5 seconds last year. Punter Alex Dunnachie vouched for that."
About how he has been kicking the ball quicker this year, Enos said:
"That's a main focus, getting it off on time." (HSA)
About how the larger crowds at Aloha Stadium and hostile road environments were different than what he had a Sierra JC, Enos said:
"It was a big change. But as a kicker you can't worry about what's going on." (HSA)
About how his mother Lee Ann Satele knew that he was awarded a football scholarship before he could call her with the news, Liko Satele said:
"She knew before I knew." (HSA)
About how she keeps track of what is happening with her kids, Lee Ann said:
"We have our saying: 'You can't go far before I find out what you're doing.'" (HSA)
About how Liko was a good choice to award a scholarship to, Mack said:
"Here's a kid who went to Lambuth (University in Jackson, Tenn.), then came back because he missed Hawaii. He's really worked his way up from the bottom. I couldn't be happier. If we have a guy on our team who is good enough to help us win, then he should be on scholarship. He deserved it." (HSA)
About how Liko has worked hard and is now the #1 left DE in camp, Vaughn Meatoga said:
"He's worked so hard. He's one of those guys who gets better and better. It's all due to his hard work. He's one of the hardest-working guys out here. When I heard he got (the scholarship), it gave me chicken skin." (HSA)
Happy that he can eat at the training table after practice now, Liko said:
"I can eat training table after practice. I don't have to go lift weights to get (a protein drink) to eat." (HSA)A
About how he needed to earn 18 credits this summer to be eligible to play this seasno, Kamalu Umu (#1 right DE) said:
"There was plenty of pressure." (HSA)
About how he only has a little more than 2 hours for studying each day due to practices, weight training, meetings, and lights-out curfew, Umu said:
"It's tough because you only have so much time. During the free time, you'd rather relax than do homework. But you have to do what you have to do." (HSA)
About how he has recovered from his surgery to repair a slightly torn meniscus in his right knee, Lametrius Davis said:
"I've been running on it all summer. I'm pretty sure there's nothing wrong with it." (HSA)
About how he bulked up to about 200 pounds and needs a new jersey, Davis said:
"I outgrew my jersey. I needed a bigger jersey." (HSA)
About how walk-on safety Darryl McBride is in the rotation for the DBs and is a key member of 4 special teams, Mack said:
"He's a hitter." (HSA)
About Mack saying that he is a hitter, McBride said:
"That's my game." (HSA)
About how he gets motivation from not having a scholarship at UH, McBride said:
"Not being on scholarship is telling me to work harder. Maybe one day I get one, maybe one day I don't. But I'm pushing myself. I've earned everything my whole life. I'll work hard for this team. I want to contribute. If it means scout team, trying to make the others better, I'll do that." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100814_Kicker_job_up_for_grabs.html
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100814_Sateles_hard_work_pays_off_with_scholarship.html
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Friday, August 13, 2010
Warriors DL have benefited from training at a boxing club
About how former UH DL Fale Laeli suggested that their defensive linemen train at a boxing club in Palolo to use boxing drills to improve handwork in fighting off blockers, Vaughn Meatoga (who served as group leader) said:
"Fale talked about it, and it made sense." (HSA)
About how they began their 3x per week sessions with jumping rope nonstop for 3 minutes, Ikaika Maoe said:
"It was the longest three minutes of my life. Plus, I'm flat-footed. My arches started cramping up. But it was a good cardio workout." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Sessions included shadow boxing, pounding the heavy bag, sprints, and floor exercises such as squat lifts, pushups and sit-ups."
About why they did not spar, Meatoga said:
"All we had to do was bring a mouthpiece to spar. None of us brought a mouthpiece." (HSA)
Meatoga smiled and added:
"Kind of on purpose." (HSA)
About how the boxing-related workouts helped him shed blockers, Liko Satele said:
"If you don't use your hands, you can't get away from anybody." (HSA)
About how quick hand movements are needed to be effective as a pass rusher, Cal Lee said:
"Boxing helps you have fast hands. Look at (Satele). There's a big improvement. I don't know if it's the boxing, but his hands are a lot faster. With hard work and energy, he's gotten a lot better." (HSA)
About how the boxing workouts strengthened his left hand, Meatoga said:
"That's my nondominant hand. Working the jabs, I'm a lot more confident with my left hand." (HSA)
About how he now has more stamina, Mahoe said:
"It was totally different exercises from football (workouts), and now I have more energy." (HSA)
About how he will continue his boxing drills and the conditioning program that Tommy Heffernan provides, Meatoga said:
"They work together. I think I'm in the best shape of my life." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100813_Warriors_train_at_boxing_club.html
"Fale talked about it, and it made sense." (HSA)
About how they began their 3x per week sessions with jumping rope nonstop for 3 minutes, Ikaika Maoe said:
"It was the longest three minutes of my life. Plus, I'm flat-footed. My arches started cramping up. But it was a good cardio workout." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Sessions included shadow boxing, pounding the heavy bag, sprints, and floor exercises such as squat lifts, pushups and sit-ups."
About why they did not spar, Meatoga said:
"All we had to do was bring a mouthpiece to spar. None of us brought a mouthpiece." (HSA)
Meatoga smiled and added:
"Kind of on purpose." (HSA)
About how the boxing-related workouts helped him shed blockers, Liko Satele said:
"If you don't use your hands, you can't get away from anybody." (HSA)
About how quick hand movements are needed to be effective as a pass rusher, Cal Lee said:
"Boxing helps you have fast hands. Look at (Satele). There's a big improvement. I don't know if it's the boxing, but his hands are a lot faster. With hard work and energy, he's gotten a lot better." (HSA)
About how the boxing workouts strengthened his left hand, Meatoga said:
"That's my nondominant hand. Working the jabs, I'm a lot more confident with my left hand." (HSA)
About how he now has more stamina, Mahoe said:
"It was totally different exercises from football (workouts), and now I have more energy." (HSA)
About how he will continue his boxing drills and the conditioning program that Tommy Heffernan provides, Meatoga said:
"They work together. I think I'm in the best shape of my life." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100813_Warriors_train_at_boxing_club.html
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Cleveland's head coach talked about how David Veikune was playing well before his injury
CL = Cleveland Leader
About David Veikune's injury status, Browns head coach Eric Mangini said:
"I'm not sure, Terry (Pluto) whether he's going to be out there tonight or not. I think we're close on him. You saw Titus (Brown) come back this morning and Brandon (McDonald) came back this morning. A lot of those guys are day-to-day guys." (CL)
Asked how Veikune was playing before he got hurt, Mangini said:
"He was playing well. He really has made some significant jumps since last year, similar to (Brian) Robiskie, just in terms of his comfort level, the calls he was making, how he read blocks right on down the line. Last year, trying to find your way, this year really he was making some strides, so hopefully he'll be back sooner rather than later and continue to see that progress." (CL)
http://www.clevelandleader.com/node/14352
About David Veikune's injury status, Browns head coach Eric Mangini said:
"I'm not sure, Terry (Pluto) whether he's going to be out there tonight or not. I think we're close on him. You saw Titus (Brown) come back this morning and Brandon (McDonald) came back this morning. A lot of those guys are day-to-day guys." (CL)
Asked how Veikune was playing before he got hurt, Mangini said:
"He was playing well. He really has made some significant jumps since last year, similar to (Brian) Robiskie, just in terms of his comfort level, the calls he was making, how he read blocks right on down the line. Last year, trying to find your way, this year really he was making some strides, so hopefully he'll be back sooner rather than later and continue to see that progress." (CL)
http://www.clevelandleader.com/node/14352
Quotes from the Star-Advertiser (feature on UH's options at left wideout)
About how they could use Rodney Bradley, Joe Avery, or Darius Bright at the left wideout (X) position, Mack said:
"There are all kinds of possibilities. We have a lot more work to do in training camp. We have a lot of personnel decisions to make. The No. 1 thing is to win, and to find the players who give us the best chance to win." (HSA)
About how Bradley could be a big weapon for them if he's healthy, Mack said:
"If he's healthy, he's outstanding. And right now, he's healthy." (HSA)
About how he realized that he was recovered from his injury while training with his cousin (former New England Patriots WR Bethel Johnson) this summer in Texas, Bradley said:
"I was working on my routes, and when I came out of a break, I didn't feel any pain. I kept working on my routes." (HSA)
About how the metal rod in his left leg did not set off the metal detector at the airport when he flew from Dallas to Hawaii at the end of summer, Bradley said:
"It didn't go off." (HSA)
The coaches had planned to have Bradley ease into drills in camp, but Rolo said that after a few workouts it was clear that:
"Rodney was back." (HSA)
HSA Note: "During spring drills, when Bright appeared to be a one-play receiver -- fade routes -- redshirting was a favorable option. But Bright reported to training camp in better shape -- he credited a strict running and weight-lifting program -- and a better grasp of the four-wide offense."
About how he's learned to make better decisions on his routes based on the coverage by the D, Darius Bright said:
"Execution is the key. It's not about how fast you run a route, it's about how you execute it." (HSA)
About how Darius' play on special teams may have him play this year instead of redshirt, Mack said:
"On special teams, Darius is really tearing it up. He's a talented guy, and he's working really hard." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Further complicating the situation is the improvement of Avery, a fourth-year junior. Avery has always had the build (6-feet-5) and speed (sub-4.5 seconds over 40 yards) for wideout, but he lacked consistency in pass-catching. Avery works out daily with the JUGS machine."
About working on his catching ability every day, Joe Avery said:
"No matter how fast you are or what routes you run, you have to end up catching the ball. The biggest priority every day is catching the ball." (HSA)
HSA Note: "With the depth at left wideout, one option would be to move Bright to right wideout. But Rolovich said, for now, Royce Pollard and Billy Ray Stutzmann are better suited for that spot."
About how they have a plan where starters would play 75% of the snaps, Rolo said:
"We're looking at a lot of things." (HSA)
When his father asked him last year what he wanted to do for his 21st birthday, Royce Pollard said:
"I told him, 'Let's cut our hair.'" (HSA)
About how he hadn't cut his hair since his junior year of high school and his Dad hadn't had a full haircut in 9 years, Royce said:
"It was an event. All of my family was there. It took an hour just to part everything. It took another 45 minutes to cut it off and fade it up." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Both donated their snipped hair to Locks of Love, which makes hair pieces for cancer-stricken children who lose their hair during medical treatments."
About how he likes his short hair, Royce said:
"I like it this way. I don't have to worry about my hair, or take two hours to wash it after going to the beach. I can wake up, and not have to worry about my hair." (HSA)
About his disappointment when he was the only QB not invited to training camp, Corey Nielsen said:
"You move on." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Nielsen was working out in Southern California when he was summoned. This week, he has been taking so-called "mental reps" during passing drills. He likely will serve on the scout team this year."
About how he keeps improving his game, Nielsen said:
"I need to keep improving in all aspects of the game, looking at things I didn't used to look at." (HSA)
About how Mouse Davis has given his good advice, Nielsen said:
"He's teaching me to focus on a lot of the little details." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100812_Warriors_have_options_at_X_receiver.html
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100812_Haircuts_are_family_affair_for_Pollards.html
"There are all kinds of possibilities. We have a lot more work to do in training camp. We have a lot of personnel decisions to make. The No. 1 thing is to win, and to find the players who give us the best chance to win." (HSA)
About how Bradley could be a big weapon for them if he's healthy, Mack said:
"If he's healthy, he's outstanding. And right now, he's healthy." (HSA)
About how he realized that he was recovered from his injury while training with his cousin (former New England Patriots WR Bethel Johnson) this summer in Texas, Bradley said:
"I was working on my routes, and when I came out of a break, I didn't feel any pain. I kept working on my routes." (HSA)
About how the metal rod in his left leg did not set off the metal detector at the airport when he flew from Dallas to Hawaii at the end of summer, Bradley said:
"It didn't go off." (HSA)
The coaches had planned to have Bradley ease into drills in camp, but Rolo said that after a few workouts it was clear that:
"Rodney was back." (HSA)
HSA Note: "During spring drills, when Bright appeared to be a one-play receiver -- fade routes -- redshirting was a favorable option. But Bright reported to training camp in better shape -- he credited a strict running and weight-lifting program -- and a better grasp of the four-wide offense."
About how he's learned to make better decisions on his routes based on the coverage by the D, Darius Bright said:
"Execution is the key. It's not about how fast you run a route, it's about how you execute it." (HSA)
About how Darius' play on special teams may have him play this year instead of redshirt, Mack said:
"On special teams, Darius is really tearing it up. He's a talented guy, and he's working really hard." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Further complicating the situation is the improvement of Avery, a fourth-year junior. Avery has always had the build (6-feet-5) and speed (sub-4.5 seconds over 40 yards) for wideout, but he lacked consistency in pass-catching. Avery works out daily with the JUGS machine."
About working on his catching ability every day, Joe Avery said:
"No matter how fast you are or what routes you run, you have to end up catching the ball. The biggest priority every day is catching the ball." (HSA)
HSA Note: "With the depth at left wideout, one option would be to move Bright to right wideout. But Rolovich said, for now, Royce Pollard and Billy Ray Stutzmann are better suited for that spot."
About how they have a plan where starters would play 75% of the snaps, Rolo said:
"We're looking at a lot of things." (HSA)
When his father asked him last year what he wanted to do for his 21st birthday, Royce Pollard said:
"I told him, 'Let's cut our hair.'" (HSA)
About how he hadn't cut his hair since his junior year of high school and his Dad hadn't had a full haircut in 9 years, Royce said:
"It was an event. All of my family was there. It took an hour just to part everything. It took another 45 minutes to cut it off and fade it up." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Both donated their snipped hair to Locks of Love, which makes hair pieces for cancer-stricken children who lose their hair during medical treatments."
About how he likes his short hair, Royce said:
"I like it this way. I don't have to worry about my hair, or take two hours to wash it after going to the beach. I can wake up, and not have to worry about my hair." (HSA)
About his disappointment when he was the only QB not invited to training camp, Corey Nielsen said:
"You move on." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Nielsen was working out in Southern California when he was summoned. This week, he has been taking so-called "mental reps" during passing drills. He likely will serve on the scout team this year."
About how he keeps improving his game, Nielsen said:
"I need to keep improving in all aspects of the game, looking at things I didn't used to look at." (HSA)
About how Mouse Davis has given his good advice, Nielsen said:
"He's teaching me to focus on a lot of the little details." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100812_Warriors_have_options_at_X_receiver.html
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100812_Haircuts_are_family_affair_for_Pollards.html
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
UH's Feature article on UH's WRs
About how they want Greg Salas to be a leader, WR coach Mouse Davis said:
"We'd like to have Greg be a leader and he definitely wants to do that. He's shown that he wants to be as good as he can be, and he wants the rest of the players to be as good as they can be too." (UH)
Praising Kealoha Pilares, Mouse said:
"Kealoha is a very good receiver. He's very bright, you tell him one thing and he picks it up right away and that's important at the receiver position." (UH)
Happy about their group of WRs, Mouse said:
"This is an exciting group of receivers. They've had some good production in the past, and now if we can get them better, they should bring even bigger production this season. They're the right kind of players for this system and they are always trying to get better." (UH)
http://hawaiiathletics.com/news/2010/8/10/FB_0810105801.aspx?path=football
"We'd like to have Greg be a leader and he definitely wants to do that. He's shown that he wants to be as good as he can be, and he wants the rest of the players to be as good as they can be too." (UH)
Praising Kealoha Pilares, Mouse said:
"Kealoha is a very good receiver. He's very bright, you tell him one thing and he picks it up right away and that's important at the receiver position." (UH)
Happy about their group of WRs, Mouse said:
"This is an exciting group of receivers. They've had some good production in the past, and now if we can get them better, they should bring even bigger production this season. They're the right kind of players for this system and they are always trying to get better." (UH)
http://hawaiiathletics.com/news/2010/8/10/FB_0810105801.aspx?path=football
UH's Feature Article on UH's RBs
About how they are happy with their senior RBs (Alex Green and Chizzy Dimude) and their depth at RB, RB coach Brian Smith said:
"We feel real good about our depth at running backs and we think we're really strong in our senior class with Alex and Chizzy coming back. They're both coming off good springs. The addition of Sterling Jackson should help push them. And the addition of Hogan (Rosehill) and (John) Lister gives us a lot of depth. They're both young guys that are doing well and are going to push the rest of the team." (UH)
About how Green is their starting RB right now but Chizzy is expected to play a lot, Smith said:
"He came out of spring real strong so he's definitely number one at the depth chart right now. Chizzy is right there with him, I expect those guys to play a lot right now." (UH)
About how Chizzy is dangerous in open space, Smith said:
"We'd like to give him the ball in open space, whether it's on screens or counters. He can run the ball inside just as well as some of the other guys we have. But, he's definitely real electric in space." (UH)
UH Note: "Also in the mix is redshirt Hogan Rosehill, grayshirts John Lister and Joey Iosefa, and transfers Sterling Jackson and Jordan Monico. Rosehill is a bruising back who will help in passing situations. Lister rushed for 2,238 yards and 27 touchdowns as a senior in high school and was named his league's most valuable player. Iosefa played quarterback, free safety, and linebacker in high school and was considered one of the top prospects out of American Samoa in 2008. Jackson was a junior college All-American at Mendocino College in California, while Monico returns home to Hawai'i after a season at Savannah State in Georgia."
About their other RBs, Smith said:
"I expect all those guys to really compete right off the bat. John [Lister] and Joey [Iosefa], both being grayshirts got a chance to be with us for the spring, so they got a little experience in the offense and have a little understanding of what we do. So we'll take this first week, week and a half to really evaluate those guys and decide if we want to redshirt any, or if they'll get a chance to play on special teams. I think all these guys have a great chance to be contributors." (UH)
http://hawaiiathletics.com/news/2010/8/9/FB_0809104222.aspx?path=football
"We feel real good about our depth at running backs and we think we're really strong in our senior class with Alex and Chizzy coming back. They're both coming off good springs. The addition of Sterling Jackson should help push them. And the addition of Hogan (Rosehill) and (John) Lister gives us a lot of depth. They're both young guys that are doing well and are going to push the rest of the team." (UH)
About how Green is their starting RB right now but Chizzy is expected to play a lot, Smith said:
"He came out of spring real strong so he's definitely number one at the depth chart right now. Chizzy is right there with him, I expect those guys to play a lot right now." (UH)
About how Chizzy is dangerous in open space, Smith said:
"We'd like to give him the ball in open space, whether it's on screens or counters. He can run the ball inside just as well as some of the other guys we have. But, he's definitely real electric in space." (UH)
UH Note: "Also in the mix is redshirt Hogan Rosehill, grayshirts John Lister and Joey Iosefa, and transfers Sterling Jackson and Jordan Monico. Rosehill is a bruising back who will help in passing situations. Lister rushed for 2,238 yards and 27 touchdowns as a senior in high school and was named his league's most valuable player. Iosefa played quarterback, free safety, and linebacker in high school and was considered one of the top prospects out of American Samoa in 2008. Jackson was a junior college All-American at Mendocino College in California, while Monico returns home to Hawai'i after a season at Savannah State in Georgia."
About their other RBs, Smith said:
"I expect all those guys to really compete right off the bat. John [Lister] and Joey [Iosefa], both being grayshirts got a chance to be with us for the spring, so they got a little experience in the offense and have a little understanding of what we do. So we'll take this first week, week and a half to really evaluate those guys and decide if we want to redshirt any, or if they'll get a chance to play on special teams. I think all these guys have a great chance to be contributors." (UH)
http://hawaiiathletics.com/news/2010/8/9/FB_0809104222.aspx?path=football
Quotes from the Star-Advertiser (feature on Po'okela Ahmad)
About his mother being told in September 2009 that she was approved for a house on Hawaiian homestead land and they moved into the Kapolei house this summer, Po'okela Ahmad said:
"My mom waited, like, 30 years. She said it was a blessing to see how God works. She said it was a reward for patience." (HSA)
About how they had lived in a townhouse most of his life, Ahmad said:
"Living in a house is cool. Every weekend, I come home and do housework. I'm helping to put a yard in. It's fun. It's a great adventure." (HSA)
About Ahmad, who has been practicing as a 1st-team LB when they are in their 45 defense, Dave Aranda said:
"Po'okela is bright. He understands defenses. He's a good coverage backer. He's improved in his skills. He's a guy who's very dependable." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Ahmad, a 2006 Kapolei High graduate, originally signed as a grayshirt. The plan was for Ahmad to pay his way as a part-time student in the fall of 2006, then join the Warriors in January 2007."
About being told that because his bad grades he would not be able to join the team until summer 2007, and only if his grades improved before then, Ahmad said:
"Basically, after that, you have two choices: You can take it as a blessing and learn from it and work harder, or you can fall down and blame the world for it.My mom and my family were supporting me. I started working hard in class and studying harder." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Ahmad improved enough to be welcomed to the team in June 2007. He now is on track to earn a bachelor's degree in December. With two seasons of eligibility remaining, he hopes to begin work toward a master's degree in January."
Happy that the coaches gave him a second chance, Ahmad said:
"Thankfully, the coaches gave me another shot. I learned a lot about time management." (HSA)
About how they are looking for fast and athletic players for special teams because of the new NCAA rule that eliminates wedge blocking, Chris Tormey said:
"We're going to see a lot more man blocking skills. It's going to come down to your man in space. You have to be a really good athlete to play in space." (HSA)
HSA Note" "UH has spent two periods of every practice working on one-on-one blocking drills on kick returns. One drill is the Warrior challenge, involving three blockers from the return team and three from the kickoff unit. All six players start the drill on their backs. At the whistle, they spring to their feet and engage in a one-on-one session. Starting from a ground position, Tormey said, prevents players from getting a running start."
About the emphasis on speed on special teams due to the no-wedge rule, Tormey said:
"We're going to see more speed across the board. That's an emphasis for us, too. We're going to get the best athletes, teach them the fundamentals, and, hopefully, put a competitive team on the field." (HSA)
About how 4 first-year Warriors (Sterling Jackson, Darryl McBride, Siaki Cravens and John Hardy-Tuliau) have been impressive on the kickoff units, Tormey said:
"Those are four guys in the mix we didn't have last year. They're athletes, and we're trying to put as many good athletes out there as we can." (HSA)
About how he lost weight to get down to 315, Kainoa LaCount said:
"I watched what I ate, and I worked out a lot." (HSA)
About how he stopped wearing a medical boot on Monday and hopes to practice next week, Aaron Brown said:
"Baby steps. You have to start somewhere." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100811_Kick-return_rules_built_for_speed.html
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100811_Patience_works_both_ways_for_Ahmad.html
"My mom waited, like, 30 years. She said it was a blessing to see how God works. She said it was a reward for patience." (HSA)
About how they had lived in a townhouse most of his life, Ahmad said:
"Living in a house is cool. Every weekend, I come home and do housework. I'm helping to put a yard in. It's fun. It's a great adventure." (HSA)
About Ahmad, who has been practicing as a 1st-team LB when they are in their 45 defense, Dave Aranda said:
"Po'okela is bright. He understands defenses. He's a good coverage backer. He's improved in his skills. He's a guy who's very dependable." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Ahmad, a 2006 Kapolei High graduate, originally signed as a grayshirt. The plan was for Ahmad to pay his way as a part-time student in the fall of 2006, then join the Warriors in January 2007."
About being told that because his bad grades he would not be able to join the team until summer 2007, and only if his grades improved before then, Ahmad said:
"Basically, after that, you have two choices: You can take it as a blessing and learn from it and work harder, or you can fall down and blame the world for it.My mom and my family were supporting me. I started working hard in class and studying harder." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Ahmad improved enough to be welcomed to the team in June 2007. He now is on track to earn a bachelor's degree in December. With two seasons of eligibility remaining, he hopes to begin work toward a master's degree in January."
Happy that the coaches gave him a second chance, Ahmad said:
"Thankfully, the coaches gave me another shot. I learned a lot about time management." (HSA)
About how they are looking for fast and athletic players for special teams because of the new NCAA rule that eliminates wedge blocking, Chris Tormey said:
"We're going to see a lot more man blocking skills. It's going to come down to your man in space. You have to be a really good athlete to play in space." (HSA)
HSA Note" "UH has spent two periods of every practice working on one-on-one blocking drills on kick returns. One drill is the Warrior challenge, involving three blockers from the return team and three from the kickoff unit. All six players start the drill on their backs. At the whistle, they spring to their feet and engage in a one-on-one session. Starting from a ground position, Tormey said, prevents players from getting a running start."
About the emphasis on speed on special teams due to the no-wedge rule, Tormey said:
"We're going to see more speed across the board. That's an emphasis for us, too. We're going to get the best athletes, teach them the fundamentals, and, hopefully, put a competitive team on the field." (HSA)
About how 4 first-year Warriors (Sterling Jackson, Darryl McBride, Siaki Cravens and John Hardy-Tuliau) have been impressive on the kickoff units, Tormey said:
"Those are four guys in the mix we didn't have last year. They're athletes, and we're trying to put as many good athletes out there as we can." (HSA)
About how he lost weight to get down to 315, Kainoa LaCount said:
"I watched what I ate, and I worked out a lot." (HSA)
About how he stopped wearing a medical boot on Monday and hopes to practice next week, Aaron Brown said:
"Baby steps. You have to start somewhere." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100811_Kick-return_rules_built_for_speed.html
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100811_Patience_works_both_ways_for_Ahmad.html
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Feature article on how the UH football team represents Hawaii and the rest of Polynesia
KWO = Ka Wai Ola
About how the UH football team is the team of Polynesia, Mana Silva said:
"We carry a huge weight on our shoulders in that we are the team of Polynesia. Coach Mac always stresses that we are Hawai'i's team, and we are the only team in Hawai'i of this caliber. So we carry the responsibility of representing the university, the state, and the people of Hawai'i and beyond with pride." (KWO)
About how their team represents the state of Hawaii, and the players represent their families and heritage, Mack said:
"That is why we wear Hawai'i on the front of our jersey to represent the university and the state. And we wear our names on the back because we really believe it's important for the players to represent their own family and heritage." (KWO)
About how they need to be good people and represent the values they were raised with, Silva said:
"I came from humble beginnings and I understand how far I've come. We're always out there in front of the public, so we need to be good people individually and as a team. We need to stick with the morals and values that we're brought up with." (KWO)
About how he plays for his Mom first and for his Hawaiian heritage second, Haku Correa said:
"She's always been the rock in the family. And she's helped me to understand what it means to have Hawaiian blood. Hawaiians have
always struggled. Whether it be to get their land back or hold on to their way of life. So I try to play for our Hawaiian people, especially the kids. They all look up to us so it's important for us to represent Polynesia. From the Samoans and Tongans to Hawaiians, it's a great opportunity for all of us." (KWO)
About how they always see a bit of Hawaii in the stands even on road trips, Vaughn Meatoga said:
"Even when we go into a hostile environment we always see a bit of the Islands. It feels good when we look into the stands and see green, or ti leaf or the Hawaiian flag. Especially the flag. It really brings up a sense of pride and makes us want to play harder for our fans on the road and at home." (KWO)
KWO Note: "A 2007 graduate of Kamehameha Schools-Kapälama, Meatoga says his family taught him about having the warrior spirit from a young age. To be fierce, but respectful. And above all, to never quit. But he learned the true meaning of 'ohana during the Warriors' undefeated and unforgettable 2008 campaign. His mom Lynette lost her lengthy battle with breast cancer just weeks before the team's New Year's Day Sugar Bowl appearance in New Orleans. Although he missed the game, Meatoga says he gained so much more."
About how their team is a family, Meatoga said:
"The feeling of the team here with the aloha spirit I think is so much different than any other place. The players understand we are brothers and they were all there for me and my family. And the coaches always emphasize the Hawaiian spirit when they talk to us on the field or in team meetings." (KWO)
About how without Hawaiian values their team would just be another football team, Mack said:
"I want to play the best players we have, so I don't care what color, or religion they are. But I do care that they understand what it means to represent the people of Hawai'i and to represent the Polynesian culture." (KWO)
About the pride they feel about representing their home state, Geordon Hanohano said:
"We feel the pride when we put on that uniform because we chose to be Warriors. For us it's about respect because many of us chose to stay home and represent our state. We're not people who just came here because it's Hawai'i and it's a great place. We came here because we're Hawaiian and we are Warriors." (KWO)
About how they don't back down no matter how formidable their opponent, Hanohano said:
"We are known across the country for being physical. So we don't care if we're taking on one of those big teams like USC or Alabama. For us it's all about looking out for one another. If we come together as brothers and trust each other, then we'll be fine. And hopefully our opponents will leave town knowing they were in a battle regardless of what the final score was." (KWO)
About how they win more recruiting battles than they lose with Pac-10, Big 12, and other schools when it comes to players of Polynesian descent, Mack said:
"When players sign on to become a Warrior, they're saying they want to be part of something special. If they don't have some family or cultural connection, then they will probably choose a mainland school and stay close to home. But when they choose to come to Hawai'i, they are choosing to become part of an 'ohana which is something we embrace and take very seriously." (KWO)
About how a true Warrior is measured by more than just wins and losses, Mack said:
"Number one, we represent the people of Hawai'i. And number two, we represent Polynesian people and culture all over the world. Make no mistake about it, we want to win. But it's so special to be part of this particular team. When we see small kids coming up and wanting to learn the haka, or we hear about people who pray for us because they care so deeply. It's amazing how much people care about us and it's really from the heart. That's why this is the best job I've ever had." (KWO)
http://www.oha.org/kwo/2010/08/KWO1008.pdf
About how the UH football team is the team of Polynesia, Mana Silva said:
"We carry a huge weight on our shoulders in that we are the team of Polynesia. Coach Mac always stresses that we are Hawai'i's team, and we are the only team in Hawai'i of this caliber. So we carry the responsibility of representing the university, the state, and the people of Hawai'i and beyond with pride." (KWO)
About how their team represents the state of Hawaii, and the players represent their families and heritage, Mack said:
"That is why we wear Hawai'i on the front of our jersey to represent the university and the state. And we wear our names on the back because we really believe it's important for the players to represent their own family and heritage." (KWO)
About how they need to be good people and represent the values they were raised with, Silva said:
"I came from humble beginnings and I understand how far I've come. We're always out there in front of the public, so we need to be good people individually and as a team. We need to stick with the morals and values that we're brought up with." (KWO)
About how he plays for his Mom first and for his Hawaiian heritage second, Haku Correa said:
"She's always been the rock in the family. And she's helped me to understand what it means to have Hawaiian blood. Hawaiians have
always struggled. Whether it be to get their land back or hold on to their way of life. So I try to play for our Hawaiian people, especially the kids. They all look up to us so it's important for us to represent Polynesia. From the Samoans and Tongans to Hawaiians, it's a great opportunity for all of us." (KWO)
About how they always see a bit of Hawaii in the stands even on road trips, Vaughn Meatoga said:
"Even when we go into a hostile environment we always see a bit of the Islands. It feels good when we look into the stands and see green, or ti leaf or the Hawaiian flag. Especially the flag. It really brings up a sense of pride and makes us want to play harder for our fans on the road and at home." (KWO)
KWO Note: "A 2007 graduate of Kamehameha Schools-Kapälama, Meatoga says his family taught him about having the warrior spirit from a young age. To be fierce, but respectful. And above all, to never quit. But he learned the true meaning of 'ohana during the Warriors' undefeated and unforgettable 2008 campaign. His mom Lynette lost her lengthy battle with breast cancer just weeks before the team's New Year's Day Sugar Bowl appearance in New Orleans. Although he missed the game, Meatoga says he gained so much more."
About how their team is a family, Meatoga said:
"The feeling of the team here with the aloha spirit I think is so much different than any other place. The players understand we are brothers and they were all there for me and my family. And the coaches always emphasize the Hawaiian spirit when they talk to us on the field or in team meetings." (KWO)
About how without Hawaiian values their team would just be another football team, Mack said:
"I want to play the best players we have, so I don't care what color, or religion they are. But I do care that they understand what it means to represent the people of Hawai'i and to represent the Polynesian culture." (KWO)
About the pride they feel about representing their home state, Geordon Hanohano said:
"We feel the pride when we put on that uniform because we chose to be Warriors. For us it's about respect because many of us chose to stay home and represent our state. We're not people who just came here because it's Hawai'i and it's a great place. We came here because we're Hawaiian and we are Warriors." (KWO)
About how they don't back down no matter how formidable their opponent, Hanohano said:
"We are known across the country for being physical. So we don't care if we're taking on one of those big teams like USC or Alabama. For us it's all about looking out for one another. If we come together as brothers and trust each other, then we'll be fine. And hopefully our opponents will leave town knowing they were in a battle regardless of what the final score was." (KWO)
About how they win more recruiting battles than they lose with Pac-10, Big 12, and other schools when it comes to players of Polynesian descent, Mack said:
"When players sign on to become a Warrior, they're saying they want to be part of something special. If they don't have some family or cultural connection, then they will probably choose a mainland school and stay close to home. But when they choose to come to Hawai'i, they are choosing to become part of an 'ohana which is something we embrace and take very seriously." (KWO)
About how a true Warrior is measured by more than just wins and losses, Mack said:
"Number one, we represent the people of Hawai'i. And number two, we represent Polynesian people and culture all over the world. Make no mistake about it, we want to win. But it's so special to be part of this particular team. When we see small kids coming up and wanting to learn the haka, or we hear about people who pray for us because they care so deeply. It's amazing how much people care about us and it's really from the heart. That's why this is the best job I've ever had." (KWO)
http://www.oha.org/kwo/2010/08/KWO1008.pdf
Bryant Moniz was selected as UH's starting QB
HSA Note: "Moniz entered spring training as the No. 1 quarterback, but was placed on personal leave for the final three weeks of the spring. He rejoined the team in late May for the start of the offseason conditioning program. By then, the quarterback competition was opened. For the first three practices of training camp, the so-called top tier -- Moniz, Shane Austin, Brent Rausch and David Graves -- received an equal number of snaps during passing drills. Yesterday, Moniz took the majority of the snaps."
About choosing Moniz to be their starting QB, Mack said:
"Moniz is our No. 1 quarterback. He's the unanimous pick. He's got all of that game experience. Not only did he make the plays, he made plays when he was in trouble and got out of there because he was an athlete. He's having an excellent fall camp." (HSA)
About how Brent Rausch hasn't had a chance to really show what he can do in a game, Rolo said:
"Brent's had some bad luck, and he hasn't had a real true game opportunity to show what he can do. But he's a senior, and he's been doing well. He's in a very productive mind-set." (HSA)
About how he strengthened his right arm during the offseason to try to avoid the arm fatigue he had last season, Moniz said:
"A lot of protein and weights and time. I put in the time to strengthen my body and arm." (HSA)
About how Moniz worked hard in the offseason and it shows in his improved passing, Rolo said:
"He worked really hard physically this year. It means a lot to him. His arm is fine. He has a nice touch on his (passes). He has zip when he needs zip." (HSA)
About how he struggled with football when he started, Moniz said:
"I was ready to quit when I first started football. I was scared to play football when I was a kid. When we started, I was 9, and we did some 'meat grinders,' and I got blasted. There's a drill where two guys come, and you have to shed both of them. I must have gone on the ground five times. But then we won the state championship that year, and I fell in love with it. That was a long way from now." (HSA)
Ready for the pressure on being the #1 QB, Moniz said:
"I enjoy all that comes with it -- good stuff or bad stuff, pressure, not pressure. It's just exciting for me." (HSA)
About how the scout teams went against the top offenses and defenses yesterday, Mack said:
"We needed to start working on the things to get us ready for the opener." (HSA)
HSA Note: "McMackin said the practice was run "pro style," in which defenders would wrap up ball carriers but not bring them to the ground. McMackin said the intent is to practice at full speed while minimizing the risk of injuries."
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100810_UH_chooses_Moniz_as_QB_starter.html
About choosing Moniz to be their starting QB, Mack said:
"Moniz is our No. 1 quarterback. He's the unanimous pick. He's got all of that game experience. Not only did he make the plays, he made plays when he was in trouble and got out of there because he was an athlete. He's having an excellent fall camp." (HSA)
About how Brent Rausch hasn't had a chance to really show what he can do in a game, Rolo said:
"Brent's had some bad luck, and he hasn't had a real true game opportunity to show what he can do. But he's a senior, and he's been doing well. He's in a very productive mind-set." (HSA)
About how he strengthened his right arm during the offseason to try to avoid the arm fatigue he had last season, Moniz said:
"A lot of protein and weights and time. I put in the time to strengthen my body and arm." (HSA)
About how Moniz worked hard in the offseason and it shows in his improved passing, Rolo said:
"He worked really hard physically this year. It means a lot to him. His arm is fine. He has a nice touch on his (passes). He has zip when he needs zip." (HSA)
About how he struggled with football when he started, Moniz said:
"I was ready to quit when I first started football. I was scared to play football when I was a kid. When we started, I was 9, and we did some 'meat grinders,' and I got blasted. There's a drill where two guys come, and you have to shed both of them. I must have gone on the ground five times. But then we won the state championship that year, and I fell in love with it. That was a long way from now." (HSA)
Ready for the pressure on being the #1 QB, Moniz said:
"I enjoy all that comes with it -- good stuff or bad stuff, pressure, not pressure. It's just exciting for me." (HSA)
About how the scout teams went against the top offenses and defenses yesterday, Mack said:
"We needed to start working on the things to get us ready for the opener." (HSA)
HSA Note: "McMackin said the practice was run "pro style," in which defenders would wrap up ball carriers but not bring them to the ground. McMackin said the intent is to practice at full speed while minimizing the risk of injuries."
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100810_UH_chooses_Moniz_as_QB_starter.html
Feature on DT coach Tony Tuioti
About his intensity during practice, Tony Tuioti said:
"I just get so excited. I tell the guys every morning, I've just got too much energy for them. It's just a blessing to be able to come out and coach football. Anything I can do to help these guys, I'm going to do it and I'm going to push them." (HSA)
HSA Note: "A former defensive tackle himself, Tuioti served as director of player personnel the past two years and is getting his hands dirty in working with the line as a full-time assistant, concentrating on the tackles while Cal Lee coaches the defensive ends."
About how Tuioti's increase volume during practices, Vaughn Meatoga said:
"He started off as this nice guy; now he's getting a little louder and in your face when you're not doing your stuff right." (HSA)
About how he's taken a leadership role but he doesn't have to push the other Warriors much, Meatoga said:
"It's not like I have to go outside my limits and be on these guys, because a lot of them take it upon themselves to get better." (HSA)
About how they want to rotate their players on the DL, Tuioti said:
"Up front we need to find eight guys who can play. The style we want to play is fast and aggressive, and we're going to be rolling guys (into the game)." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100810_Defensive_tackle_coach_Tuioti_back_on_the_inside.html
"I just get so excited. I tell the guys every morning, I've just got too much energy for them. It's just a blessing to be able to come out and coach football. Anything I can do to help these guys, I'm going to do it and I'm going to push them." (HSA)
HSA Note: "A former defensive tackle himself, Tuioti served as director of player personnel the past two years and is getting his hands dirty in working with the line as a full-time assistant, concentrating on the tackles while Cal Lee coaches the defensive ends."
About how Tuioti's increase volume during practices, Vaughn Meatoga said:
"He started off as this nice guy; now he's getting a little louder and in your face when you're not doing your stuff right." (HSA)
About how he's taken a leadership role but he doesn't have to push the other Warriors much, Meatoga said:
"It's not like I have to go outside my limits and be on these guys, because a lot of them take it upon themselves to get better." (HSA)
About how they want to rotate their players on the DL, Tuioti said:
"Up front we need to find eight guys who can play. The style we want to play is fast and aggressive, and we're going to be rolling guys (into the game)." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100810_Defensive_tackle_coach_Tuioti_back_on_the_inside.html
Feature on John Hardy-Tuilau's kick blocking prowess
HSA Note: "John Hardy-Tuliau didn't wait long to build on his reputation as a gifted kick blocker. The freshman cornerback knocked down a field-goal attempt during Saturday's practice and got his hands on another during a drill yesterday. Hardy-Tuliau set a California state record with 26 blocks at Vista Murrieta High School, knocking down five as a senior."
About his key to blocking kicks, Hardy-Tuilau said:
"Just get off the ball. Just trying to get to the ball as fast as I can." (HSA)
About how true freshmen have a chance to play on special teams, special teams coordinator Chris Tormey said:
"There's a number of these guys in this class who have a chance and we're going to have to really evaluate and make some tough decisions on whether they're going to play this year or not.If we think they can help us win, as Mike Wadsworth did a year ago, we're going to go ahead and play them." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100810_Defensive_tackle_coach_Tuioti_back_on_the_inside.html
About his key to blocking kicks, Hardy-Tuilau said:
"Just get off the ball. Just trying to get to the ball as fast as I can." (HSA)
About how true freshmen have a chance to play on special teams, special teams coordinator Chris Tormey said:
"There's a number of these guys in this class who have a chance and we're going to have to really evaluate and make some tough decisions on whether they're going to play this year or not.If we think they can help us win, as Mike Wadsworth did a year ago, we're going to go ahead and play them." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100810_Defensive_tackle_coach_Tuioti_back_on_the_inside.html
The 3 highest paid WAC coaches have all taken pay cuts
HSA Note: "In the last 12 months, the three highest-paid football coaches, Boise State's Chris Petersen, Hawaii's Greg McMackin and Hill -- the so-called "Millionaire Three" of the WAC -- have accepted terms that will either significantly reduce or slow down the pace of their salaries. It is believed to be the first time in the 48-year history of the conference that its three highest-paid coaches have all had their contracts readjusted down."
About the need to lower salaries, JD said:
"People are finding out that, in these tough economic times, you can't have high fixed costs. People are going back and trying to lower their fixed costs." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Last fall McMackin voluntarily agreed, according to school officials, to a 7 percent pay cut for 22 months. That was on top of the one month's salary he was docked for offensive remarks made last summer at a WAC media event. When the voluntary cut -- which was in line with those taken by several administrators, including then-UH president David McClain, Manoa chancellor Virginia S. Hinshaw and Donovan and senior athletic administrators -- ends June 30, 2011, McMackin will have given up $141,174 in salary, according to UH officials.
Petersen, who has led Boise State to two BCS appearances and three WAC titles in four years, will receive $1.289 million in base salary this year, but had been scheduled to make $1.3 million. Moreover, what was to have been a 56 percent escalation over three years, according to the Idaho Statesman, will now be a 20 percent climb over five years."
About how Athletic Department revenue varies with the performance of the teams, JD said:
"From a strictly business standpoint, sports (expenses and revenues) are variable depending on how the teams perform. Your revenue can be up considerably or revenue can be down considerably, all depending on how the team is doing." (HSA)
About how the WAC raised salaries as other schools with larger TV deals raised money, JD said:
"At what point does it become feasible to keep up with the Joneses?" (HSA)
HSA Note: "Increasingly, schools say they are reducing the base salary and tying pay to meaningful incentives. For example, Hill's base, which had been approximately $850,000, will become $650,000 on Jan. 1, 2011, when the new contract becomes operative, according to the Fresno Bee."
About how coaches salaries cannot keep increasing like they have been, Karl Benson said:
"Nationally, I think, they (escalating coaching salaries) have to come to a screeching halt." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100810_WAC_coaches_salaries_take_hits.html
About the need to lower salaries, JD said:
"People are finding out that, in these tough economic times, you can't have high fixed costs. People are going back and trying to lower their fixed costs." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Last fall McMackin voluntarily agreed, according to school officials, to a 7 percent pay cut for 22 months. That was on top of the one month's salary he was docked for offensive remarks made last summer at a WAC media event. When the voluntary cut -- which was in line with those taken by several administrators, including then-UH president David McClain, Manoa chancellor Virginia S. Hinshaw and Donovan and senior athletic administrators -- ends June 30, 2011, McMackin will have given up $141,174 in salary, according to UH officials.
Petersen, who has led Boise State to two BCS appearances and three WAC titles in four years, will receive $1.289 million in base salary this year, but had been scheduled to make $1.3 million. Moreover, what was to have been a 56 percent escalation over three years, according to the Idaho Statesman, will now be a 20 percent climb over five years."
About how Athletic Department revenue varies with the performance of the teams, JD said:
"From a strictly business standpoint, sports (expenses and revenues) are variable depending on how the teams perform. Your revenue can be up considerably or revenue can be down considerably, all depending on how the team is doing." (HSA)
About how the WAC raised salaries as other schools with larger TV deals raised money, JD said:
"At what point does it become feasible to keep up with the Joneses?" (HSA)
HSA Note: "Increasingly, schools say they are reducing the base salary and tying pay to meaningful incentives. For example, Hill's base, which had been approximately $850,000, will become $650,000 on Jan. 1, 2011, when the new contract becomes operative, according to the Fresno Bee."
About how coaches salaries cannot keep increasing like they have been, Karl Benson said:
"Nationally, I think, they (escalating coaching salaries) have to come to a screeching halt." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100810_WAC_coaches_salaries_take_hits.html
Monday, August 9, 2010
UH feature on UH's QBs
Praising #1 QB Bryant Moniz, QB coach Nick Rolovich said:
"He's got great poise, he's tough, and he's got a lot of great things as far as quarterback qualities. I'd like to see more extroverted leadership, but he leads a lot by example." (UH)
UH Note: "Moniz sat out most of spring ball due to personal reasons but quickly established himself as the starter at the beginning of fall camp over junior Shane Austin."
Praising Shane Austin, Rolo said:
"Shane has very catchable ball. He's got good knowledge of the system and where he's supposed to go with the ball, although he could work on his consistency and becoming more mistake-free at the position," (UH)
About redshirt freshman David Graves, Rolo said:
"Graves' strengths are his competitiveness, his desire to win football games, his good understanding of the offense, and his athleticism. He could work on probably trying to get through his progressions but he's so athletic that he's a weapon with his feet." (UH)
Excited about freshman Kevin Spain's future, Rolo said:
"What I saw from him with recruiting was a very accurate thrower. He didn't come from a throwing offense, but I think he has the natural ability to throw the ball and I think he wants to win and is very appreciative to be in this kind of offense as a quarterback." (UH)
http://www.hawaiiathletics.com/news/2010/8/6/FB_0806102544.aspx
"He's got great poise, he's tough, and he's got a lot of great things as far as quarterback qualities. I'd like to see more extroverted leadership, but he leads a lot by example." (UH)
UH Note: "Moniz sat out most of spring ball due to personal reasons but quickly established himself as the starter at the beginning of fall camp over junior Shane Austin."
Praising Shane Austin, Rolo said:
"Shane has very catchable ball. He's got good knowledge of the system and where he's supposed to go with the ball, although he could work on his consistency and becoming more mistake-free at the position," (UH)
About redshirt freshman David Graves, Rolo said:
"Graves' strengths are his competitiveness, his desire to win football games, his good understanding of the offense, and his athleticism. He could work on probably trying to get through his progressions but he's so athletic that he's a weapon with his feet." (UH)
Excited about freshman Kevin Spain's future, Rolo said:
"What I saw from him with recruiting was a very accurate thrower. He didn't come from a throwing offense, but I think he has the natural ability to throw the ball and I think he wants to win and is very appreciative to be in this kind of offense as a quarterback." (UH)
http://www.hawaiiathletics.com/news/2010/8/6/FB_0806102544.aspx
Aaron Kia was released by the NY Jets
About being cut by the Jets, Aaron Kia said:
"It's a business. That's all it is." (HSA)
About the Jets starring in HBO's weekly behind-the-scenes documentary "Hard Knocks", Brashton Satele said:
"The cameras are everywhere." (HSA)
About how Kia improved significantly after he finished playing for UH, Satele said:
"He got a lot better after UH. He looks like a pro lineman. He was doing a good job. It was a numbers game." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100809_jets_release_former_warriors_lineman_kia.html
"It's a business. That's all it is." (HSA)
About the Jets starring in HBO's weekly behind-the-scenes documentary "Hard Knocks", Brashton Satele said:
"The cameras are everywhere." (HSA)
About how Kia improved significantly after he finished playing for UH, Satele said:
"He got a lot better after UH. He looks like a pro lineman. He was doing a good job. It was a numbers game." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100809_jets_release_former_warriors_lineman_kia.html
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Feature interview with Colt Brennan in the San Francisco Chronicle
SFC = San Francisco Chronicle
SFC Note: "He may need to play Thursday night against Dallas, and he certainly has to believe he has a shot to beat out Frye and Kyle Boller for the No. 3 job here."
Asked if his brain is swimming trying to get up to speed with the Raiders, Colt Brennan said:
"Well yeah. Obviously I'm excited because I got an opportunity. I grew up in Southern California, my dad had Raiders tickets growing up. ... Right now basically I'm just trying to get somewhat of a gameplan for Thursday night just so I can be ready. I can at least look like I know what I'm doing out there and have a chance to move the ball and have some success with that third team." (SFC)
When the interviewer commented on how UH's offense was free-wheeling and asked if he could do that with Oakland, Colt said:
"I had a great first year with Washington. I had two games that weren't bad but I threw a couple picks in key situations. I've always had an ability to see the field and make a play. Sometimes it drives the coach nuts but when it works I end up getting a touchdown or something good ends up happening. I can kind of hopefully rely on that Thursday night and see the field and make some good plays and hopefully throw no interceptions and make minimal mistakes." (SFC)
Asked what kind of QB Jason Campbell is, Colt said:
"Already they have an all-around good guy, a hard worker, a guy that's going to be a leader and gets respect from his players. Jason is a natural, kind of prototypical NFL quarterback. Six-four, he moves really well, he's got a big arm, can throw the ball down field. I think Jason's biggest thing that's been hurting him is he's never got situated or gotten stabilized as far as coaching and being in the same system for a couple years. That's when guys start to grow. You don't see too many guys come out, they Peyton Mannings, the Brett Favres, they all went through their growing pains. Jason's never really got a chance to get through that." (SFC)
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/raiders/detail?&entry_id=69665
SFC Note: "He may need to play Thursday night against Dallas, and he certainly has to believe he has a shot to beat out Frye and Kyle Boller for the No. 3 job here."
Asked if his brain is swimming trying to get up to speed with the Raiders, Colt Brennan said:
"Well yeah. Obviously I'm excited because I got an opportunity. I grew up in Southern California, my dad had Raiders tickets growing up. ... Right now basically I'm just trying to get somewhat of a gameplan for Thursday night just so I can be ready. I can at least look like I know what I'm doing out there and have a chance to move the ball and have some success with that third team." (SFC)
When the interviewer commented on how UH's offense was free-wheeling and asked if he could do that with Oakland, Colt said:
"I had a great first year with Washington. I had two games that weren't bad but I threw a couple picks in key situations. I've always had an ability to see the field and make a play. Sometimes it drives the coach nuts but when it works I end up getting a touchdown or something good ends up happening. I can kind of hopefully rely on that Thursday night and see the field and make some good plays and hopefully throw no interceptions and make minimal mistakes." (SFC)
Asked what kind of QB Jason Campbell is, Colt said:
"Already they have an all-around good guy, a hard worker, a guy that's going to be a leader and gets respect from his players. Jason is a natural, kind of prototypical NFL quarterback. Six-four, he moves really well, he's got a big arm, can throw the ball down field. I think Jason's biggest thing that's been hurting him is he's never got situated or gotten stabilized as far as coaching and being in the same system for a couple years. That's when guys start to grow. You don't see too many guys come out, they Peyton Mannings, the Brett Favres, they all went through their growing pains. Jason's never really got a chance to get through that." (SFC)
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/raiders/detail?&entry_id=69665
Feature article on Alex Green
About how they do not have a set percentage of runs or passes in a game, Rolo said:
"It's going to be whatever it is that's going to win us the game. We spend a certain amount of time running and passing in practice, but that doesn't mean we have to do that in the game." (HSA)
About how Alex Green is a perfect RB for their system, Rolo said:
"When you go out recruiting for a running back, you look for Alex Green. And we got him." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Washington almost snagged him first. But one of his classes from Butte (Oroville, Calif.) Community College wasn't accepted at UDub, and Green was left to choose between Hawaii -- which hadn't produced a 1,000-yard rusher in 17 years -- and Liberty, an FCS program."
About how he ended up having to choose UH after Washington wasn't an option, Alex Green (who was committed to Bowling Green before a late coaching change) said:
"You think of the system, you think of how many running backs they use. You think of how many times you're going to touch the ball. But it was kind of no choice. It was here or Division I-AA in Virginia." (HSA)
About how RBs like Green had to learn that they have to block to be able to play, RB coach Brian Smith said:
"You get a little humbled. JC offenses' protections are not as complex, and there's not as much emphasis on it. But he understands our protection schemes and has a lot of confidence in them." (HSA)
About how he has adjusted to UH's offense, Alex Green said:
"I had to change my mentality. (The offense has) made my game more dynamic. The best thing is the coaches are using all the talents we have." (HSA)
About how Green is one of their leaders, Rolo said:
"If Alex Green says something in the huddle, they shut up and listen." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/columnists/furtherreview/20100808_ball_will_find_the_hands_of_green_one_way_or_another.html
"It's going to be whatever it is that's going to win us the game. We spend a certain amount of time running and passing in practice, but that doesn't mean we have to do that in the game." (HSA)
About how Alex Green is a perfect RB for their system, Rolo said:
"When you go out recruiting for a running back, you look for Alex Green. And we got him." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Washington almost snagged him first. But one of his classes from Butte (Oroville, Calif.) Community College wasn't accepted at UDub, and Green was left to choose between Hawaii -- which hadn't produced a 1,000-yard rusher in 17 years -- and Liberty, an FCS program."
About how he ended up having to choose UH after Washington wasn't an option, Alex Green (who was committed to Bowling Green before a late coaching change) said:
"You think of the system, you think of how many running backs they use. You think of how many times you're going to touch the ball. But it was kind of no choice. It was here or Division I-AA in Virginia." (HSA)
About how RBs like Green had to learn that they have to block to be able to play, RB coach Brian Smith said:
"You get a little humbled. JC offenses' protections are not as complex, and there's not as much emphasis on it. But he understands our protection schemes and has a lot of confidence in them." (HSA)
About how he has adjusted to UH's offense, Alex Green said:
"I had to change my mentality. (The offense has) made my game more dynamic. The best thing is the coaches are using all the talents we have." (HSA)
About how Green is one of their leaders, Rolo said:
"If Alex Green says something in the huddle, they shut up and listen." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/columnists/furtherreview/20100808_ball_will_find_the_hands_of_green_one_way_or_another.html
Feature article on UH's LBs
About completing their first practice of Fall Camp in pads, Corey Paredes said:
"It's really hot, and they're heavier than I remember. But it feels good. Finally get to hit again." (HSA)
"It's really hot, and they're heavier than I remember. But it feels good. Finally get to hit again." (HSA)
About the progress that their LBs have been making, Dave Aranda (defensive coordinator and LB coach) said:
"Linebacker is such an integral part to what's happening in front and what's happening behind them. They've really got to be tied in. I thought we made some strides the first two days. I'm happy with their knowledge and their confidence." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Paredes owns the most game action of the group with four starts and 54 total tackles, including a team-high four sacks, last season. He opened camp with the first unit at weak-side linebacker with freshman George Daily-Lyles in the middle and sophomore Paipai Falemalu on the strong side."
About their relatively inexperienced LB group, Paredes said:
"We're one of the younger groups on the whole team, but we've got a lot of guys with heart. We're ready to play and put our bodies on the line, and that's the most important thing." (HSA)
About how he's more comfortable now after having a year to adjust to their defense, George Daily-Lyles said:
"It's full-go right now. Spring was getting acclimated to the game. Now it's if you don't know it, you're stumbling, and to the back of the depth chart you go." (HSA)
About adjusting to being at LB after moving from DE, Paipai Falemalu said:
"It's a learning process, but Coach Aranda, (graduate assistant Ryan Biesemeyer) and the other veterans are helping me a lot. It's coming back real quick. It feels like home." (HSA)
Praising Paipai, Aranda said:
"He's one of the best athletes that we've got, I'd say, on the entire team. Pai's a weapon and a mismatch for us." (HSA)
About how he plans to featur both Paipai and Aaron Brown at strong side LB after Brown's recovers from his ankle injury, Aranda said:
"We have to get him back healthy and get him back playing. He's just a playmaker, period." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100809_linebackers_bring_back_the_hits.html
The USC game might not be a sellout for UH
HSA Note: "With 25 days remaining, the Warriors have distributed about 30,000 tickets for the Sept. 2 game at 50,000-seat Aloha Stadium, officials said.
About how he hopes that the USC game will be a sellout but doesn't think that it will be, JD said:
"If you asked me today, I'd say we'd have somewhere in the 40,000s (for the game). But I hope it will be a sellout. When we get closer the data may be more accurate, more positive." (HSA)
HSA Note: "UH officials said approximately 18,800 season tickets have been renewed and about 1,250 new season tickets were sold by last week, two weeks into the current campaign. In addition, USC has an allotment of 7,500, which it said it expects to exhaust."
About how some UH fans tend to wait until they see how Fall Camp progresses before buying tickets, JD said:
"Traditionally, there has been more of push as (training) camp moves along. The big unknown is playing on a Thursday. We haven't done that (at home). On the plus side, we've done 4,000-5,000 in walk-up the day or two before a big game when the weather is good." (HSA)
HSA Note: "UH is counting on the USC game to be a big bread-winner, perhaps reaching a single-game school record of $1.2 million in ticket revenue, for a program that has run $2 million deficits each of the past two years."
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100808_sellout_for_usc_is_a_work_in_progress.html
About how he hopes that the USC game will be a sellout but doesn't think that it will be, JD said:
"If you asked me today, I'd say we'd have somewhere in the 40,000s (for the game). But I hope it will be a sellout. When we get closer the data may be more accurate, more positive." (HSA)
HSA Note: "UH officials said approximately 18,800 season tickets have been renewed and about 1,250 new season tickets were sold by last week, two weeks into the current campaign. In addition, USC has an allotment of 7,500, which it said it expects to exhaust."
About how some UH fans tend to wait until they see how Fall Camp progresses before buying tickets, JD said:
"Traditionally, there has been more of push as (training) camp moves along. The big unknown is playing on a Thursday. We haven't done that (at home). On the plus side, we've done 4,000-5,000 in walk-up the day or two before a big game when the weather is good." (HSA)
HSA Note: "UH is counting on the USC game to be a big bread-winner, perhaps reaching a single-game school record of $1.2 million in ticket revenue, for a program that has run $2 million deficits each of the past two years."
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100808_sellout_for_usc_is_a_work_in_progress.html
Colt Brennan's agent Ryan Tollner talked about Colt's chance with the Oakland Raiders
About how Colt has to make the most of his chance with the Raiders, his agent Ryan Tollner said:
"He has an opportunity. Now he has to make the most of it." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Brennan was brought in for a tryout yesterday morning. After receiving good reviews, he was offered a contract.Tollner said Brennan signed the "base" one-year deal yesterday afternoon. Brennan participated in the Raiders' evening workout at their training facility in Napa, Calif."
HSA Note: "Because he was inactive in 2009, he is credited with one year of NFL experience. He will be paid the second-year minimum salary of $395,000 if he is on the Raiders' roster this regular season.Brennan, who will turn 27 this month, faces a steep challenge. There are four other quarterbacks on the Raiders' roster, each with considerably more pro experience than Brennan."
Tollner said that Oakland could consider Colt as:
"the young guy who hasn't had his shot and now wants to make the most of it. ... That's what makes this opportunity appealing." (HSA)
HSA Note: "During UH's Pro Day in March 2008, Ted Tollner -- Ryan Tollner's uncle -- coached Brennan during passing drills. Ted Tollner is the Raiders' passing-game coordinator."
About Colt receiving tutorial sessions from Oakland's offensive coaches, Ryan Tollner said:
"It seems they want to give him a look." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100808_opportunity_for_brennan_with_raiders.html
"He has an opportunity. Now he has to make the most of it." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Brennan was brought in for a tryout yesterday morning. After receiving good reviews, he was offered a contract.Tollner said Brennan signed the "base" one-year deal yesterday afternoon. Brennan participated in the Raiders' evening workout at their training facility in Napa, Calif."
HSA Note: "Because he was inactive in 2009, he is credited with one year of NFL experience. He will be paid the second-year minimum salary of $395,000 if he is on the Raiders' roster this regular season.Brennan, who will turn 27 this month, faces a steep challenge. There are four other quarterbacks on the Raiders' roster, each with considerably more pro experience than Brennan."
Tollner said that Oakland could consider Colt as:
"the young guy who hasn't had his shot and now wants to make the most of it. ... That's what makes this opportunity appealing." (HSA)
HSA Note: "During UH's Pro Day in March 2008, Ted Tollner -- Ryan Tollner's uncle -- coached Brennan during passing drills. Ted Tollner is the Raiders' passing-game coordinator."
About Colt receiving tutorial sessions from Oakland's offensive coaches, Ryan Tollner said:
"It seems they want to give him a look." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100808_opportunity_for_brennan_with_raiders.html
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Quotes from Day 2 of Fall Camp
About how he will have season-ending surgery on his throwing shoulder, Kevin Spain said:
"I tore a little ligament in my (right) shoulder." (HSA)
The freshman QB Spain said that he would like to have surgery:
"as soon as possible. I'll definitely be back by spring. That's the good side of it. I'm going to miss all of fall. That kind of sucks since I came all the way out here (early)." (HSA)
About how Spain probably would have redshirted this season, Rolo said:
"For the most part, we were leaning that way, and he was aware of that. But we really wanted to get a look at him throwing (in training camp). We didn't really get that." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Spain, who arrived in June, took two three-credit classes in the newly created "bridge term" that ran through last week. That allowed him to participate in unsupervised offseason workouts, which included 11-on-11 passing drills."
Spain noticed a couple of weeks ago that he:
"started losing a whole bunch of power (and) accuracy. My (passes) were all over the place. I wanted to get it checked out." (HSA)
HSA Note: "He said medical tests showed the slight tear."
About how Corey Nielsen will replace Spain on the 105-player roster and will report tomorrow to camp, Rolo said:
"It'll give (Nielsen) more chances to throw the ball around. I heard he's had a good summer working out in California. We want to see where he's at." (HSA)
HSA Note: "As promised, the top-tier quarterbacks—Bryant Moniz, Shane Austin, Brent Rausch and David Graves—received a relatively equal number of snaps in passing drills."
About expected starting QB Moniz, Rolo said:
"He has a good understanding of the offense. He's the type of kid if you say it once, he knows what you're talking about. You don't have to draw it up. You don't have to show it on film. You can verbally explain things to him, and he understands." (HSA)
About Shane Austin, Rolo said:
"Shane always throws the ball well." (HSA)
Praising senior Brent Rausch, Rolo said:
"He's lost a little bit of the nervousness in the pocket. He understands what he needs to do." (HSA)
About moving Siaki Cravens from OLB to DE, Dave Aranda said:
"There's a feeling he could help us with our pass rush." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Cravens welcomed a return to a position he played at Long Beach City College in 2009. Cravens said he is 6 feet 3, 235 pounds, and capable of running 40 yards in 4.5 seconds. He can bench press 370 pounds."
Asked what he needed to do to adjust to being a DE, Cravens said with a smile:
"I have to eat like a D-lineman. I think I'm doing that, anyway. At least that's what my mom always says." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Aranda praised Cravens' athletic ability. Cravens was recruited as a tight end to Utah, where he played as a freshman."
About how Cravens might be a DE in their base 4-3, but might be used as the "joker" (stand-up pass-rusher who can be on the line or in coverage), Aranda said:
"He's a hybrid guy who gives us a lot of flexibility." (HSA)
About how things are going well for him in camp, #1 center Bronson Tiwanak said:
"So far, things are going pretty smooth." (HSA)
About taking over after projected starting center Matagisila Lefiti was injured and is expected to miss the first three games of the season with a foot injury, Tiwanak said:
"I thought it was going to be a little tougher for me because unfortunately Sila got hurt. I had to step up. I thought it was going to take some time for the guys to get used to me in there. But just from doing drills and getting to know each other over the summer, it feels like I've been with them this whole time. These first two days have been real easy." (HSA)
Praising Tiwanak, OL coach Gordy Shaw said:
"He had a good summer; he came in on his own and studied extra. He seems to be in tune with what the calls are and the fronts, and his snaps are very consistent, that's the most important thing. We can't have a center who can't get the ball to the quarterback in the gun; then everything else breaks down. He's done a very good job of that. I'm pretty pleased where he's at right now. He came back a little lighter, much stronger, and he's ready to go." (HSA)
About how Tiwanak needs experience, Laupepa Letuli said:
"I think he just needs experience right now. Sila's been here since '07. He knows pretty much what's going on at center. But Bronson's picking up fast. It helps us out, so we gotta help him out with that." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100807_Camps_been_a_snap_for_center_Tiwanak.html
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100807_Quarterback_toss-up.html
http://www.staradvertiser.com/columnists/ferdswords/20100807_Warriors_need_to_build_depth_for_the_seasons_long_haul.html
"I tore a little ligament in my (right) shoulder." (HSA)
The freshman QB Spain said that he would like to have surgery:
"as soon as possible. I'll definitely be back by spring. That's the good side of it. I'm going to miss all of fall. That kind of sucks since I came all the way out here (early)." (HSA)
About how Spain probably would have redshirted this season, Rolo said:
"For the most part, we were leaning that way, and he was aware of that. But we really wanted to get a look at him throwing (in training camp). We didn't really get that." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Spain, who arrived in June, took two three-credit classes in the newly created "bridge term" that ran through last week. That allowed him to participate in unsupervised offseason workouts, which included 11-on-11 passing drills."
Spain noticed a couple of weeks ago that he:
"started losing a whole bunch of power (and) accuracy. My (passes) were all over the place. I wanted to get it checked out." (HSA)
HSA Note: "He said medical tests showed the slight tear."
About how Corey Nielsen will replace Spain on the 105-player roster and will report tomorrow to camp, Rolo said:
"It'll give (Nielsen) more chances to throw the ball around. I heard he's had a good summer working out in California. We want to see where he's at." (HSA)
HSA Note: "As promised, the top-tier quarterbacks—Bryant Moniz, Shane Austin, Brent Rausch and David Graves—received a relatively equal number of snaps in passing drills."
About expected starting QB Moniz, Rolo said:
"He has a good understanding of the offense. He's the type of kid if you say it once, he knows what you're talking about. You don't have to draw it up. You don't have to show it on film. You can verbally explain things to him, and he understands." (HSA)
About Shane Austin, Rolo said:
"Shane always throws the ball well." (HSA)
Praising senior Brent Rausch, Rolo said:
"He's lost a little bit of the nervousness in the pocket. He understands what he needs to do." (HSA)
About moving Siaki Cravens from OLB to DE, Dave Aranda said:
"There's a feeling he could help us with our pass rush." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Cravens welcomed a return to a position he played at Long Beach City College in 2009. Cravens said he is 6 feet 3, 235 pounds, and capable of running 40 yards in 4.5 seconds. He can bench press 370 pounds."
Asked what he needed to do to adjust to being a DE, Cravens said with a smile:
"I have to eat like a D-lineman. I think I'm doing that, anyway. At least that's what my mom always says." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Aranda praised Cravens' athletic ability. Cravens was recruited as a tight end to Utah, where he played as a freshman."
About how Cravens might be a DE in their base 4-3, but might be used as the "joker" (stand-up pass-rusher who can be on the line or in coverage), Aranda said:
"He's a hybrid guy who gives us a lot of flexibility." (HSA)
About how things are going well for him in camp, #1 center Bronson Tiwanak said:
"So far, things are going pretty smooth." (HSA)
About taking over after projected starting center Matagisila Lefiti was injured and is expected to miss the first three games of the season with a foot injury, Tiwanak said:
"I thought it was going to be a little tougher for me because unfortunately Sila got hurt. I had to step up. I thought it was going to take some time for the guys to get used to me in there. But just from doing drills and getting to know each other over the summer, it feels like I've been with them this whole time. These first two days have been real easy." (HSA)
Praising Tiwanak, OL coach Gordy Shaw said:
"He had a good summer; he came in on his own and studied extra. He seems to be in tune with what the calls are and the fronts, and his snaps are very consistent, that's the most important thing. We can't have a center who can't get the ball to the quarterback in the gun; then everything else breaks down. He's done a very good job of that. I'm pretty pleased where he's at right now. He came back a little lighter, much stronger, and he's ready to go." (HSA)
About how Tiwanak needs experience, Laupepa Letuli said:
"I think he just needs experience right now. Sila's been here since '07. He knows pretty much what's going on at center. But Bronson's picking up fast. It helps us out, so we gotta help him out with that." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100807_Camps_been_a_snap_for_center_Tiwanak.html
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100807_Quarterback_toss-up.html
http://www.staradvertiser.com/columnists/ferdswords/20100807_Warriors_need_to_build_depth_for_the_seasons_long_haul.html
Friday, August 6, 2010
Quotes from Day 1 of Fall Camp
About how the players worked hard during the offseason, Mack said:
"Obviously we're in great shape and they have a great attitude. They were out there working hard as a group so they know that they're working as a team. These guys were doing it themselves. They organized things and worked with each other and (strength coordinator) Tommy Heffernan has just done an outstanding job with them." (UH)
About how they have several freshman and JC transfers that might be able to help them right away, Mack said:
"I think they'll be several newcomers that help us right off the ba. This was the first day of evaluation and we need another week of it then we'll have a better feel for it." (UH)
About the team staying in the dance studios during camp, Mack said:
"It's been great, we have an offensive and defensive coach and GA's stay overnight. We have rules, lights are out at 11:00. We're working, this is a camp and we're getting ready to play football." (UH)
Happy with the attitude of the team during their first practice, Mack said:
"It's a fun group to work with because they're serious about it. It was the first practice and we were just doing fundamentals and techniques but I liked what I saw." (UH)
About how their team will bond during camp, Mack said:
"Camp is about chemistry, guys getting to know each other." (HSA)
About his taking a leave from the team during spring practice and apologizing to the team, Bryant Moniz said:
"Yeah, that's in the past." (HSA)
"It was something I had to take care of. Everything is all good now." (HSA)
Moniz said that his goal is to
"learn from it and move on." (HSA)
About winning back the trust of the team, Moniz said:
"That's a daily job. Since I missed three weeks (of spring training), I have some catching up to do." (HSA)
About the title he could be given now that he's in his sixth year with UH, Laupepa Letuli said:
"Super senior." (HSA)
About how their OL needs to bond in camp, Letuli said:
"Understanding each other, developing camaraderie, knowing each other. We don't have that right now. We've got a couple of guys who started, but at different times last year." (HSA)
About how their team chemistry can be built during camp, Moniz said:
"We definitely have enough time. That's what this camp is for, to build up our chemistry, our rhythm. So we can get to the point where we're all on the same page." (HSA)
HSA Note: "a scheduled 2-hour practice went into a 45-minute overtime. (Players who did not complete the offseason conditioning program were required to run 50-yard sprints.)"
About how he'll work well with offensive coordinator Nick Rolovich, Mouse Davis said:
"Absolutely." (HSA)
About how he will not be intrusive, Mouse said:
"That's not our deal." (HSA)
Asked if he is possessive about the offense he created, Mouse said:
"Hell, no. I told him I want him to take (the offense) and try to make it better. This is Rolo's offense. I'm not looking to improve my friggin' resume. I'm looking to improve his resume." (HSA)
About how Mouse made sure that the WRs ran the pass routes as they are supposed to be run, Greg Salas said:
"He wants things done a specific way. He wants everyone on their landmarks. He wants everything done the right way." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Davis implored each receiver to use the "noose" technique, in which the thumbs and index fingers touch, creating a circle. That technique makes it easier for a receiver to catch passes only with his hands."
About Mouse teaching the noose technique, Salas said:
"We're bringing back the noose." (HSA)
When Salas made a leaping one-handed catch, Mouse said:
"Why did God give you the other hand?" (HSA)
About how he worked with a personal trainer over the past 2 months, Moniz said:
"I did a lot of work on small muscles, shoulder muscles." (HSA)
About missing the final 10 games last season after injuring his left knee in a weight-room accident, Letuli said:
"I was doing a workout I shouldn't have been doing, and I kind of tore (a knee ligament). I guess you could say it was my fault. It affected my team. I'm good now." (HSA)
About how he is healthy and hopes to compete for the starting QB spot, Brent Rausch said:
"My arm feels good, my hand feels good, it's the same offense. Hopefully, I can get some reps." (HSA)
About putting his struggles (mostly with injury) during his first 2 UH seasons behind him for his last season, Rausch said:
"What do you have to lose? That's pretty much where I'm at. There's a lot less stress actually. It's cool." (HSA)
About his son Sterling Jackson walking on to UH, 4,500 miles away from their home in Georgia, his father Steve Jackson said:
"We thank God for the opportunity. We trust Sterling will work hard and make the opportunity work for him." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Bradley, who missed the final seven games after he suffered two fractures in his left leg, ran full speed in passing drills yesterday. He was not used in the final 11-on-11 drill because of a sore right foot."
About how his sore right foot will not keep him from practicing today, Rodney Bradley said:
"I think I was going too hard because I was anxious. I'll be ready." (HSA)
HSA Note: "At times during yesterday's first practice of fall camp, senior receiver Rodney Bradley walked around with a noticeable limp."
About testing his leg at full speed for the first time, Bradley said:
"It was the first day I really pushed it to see if it could handle everything I gave it and it felt good." (HSA)
Asked why he was limping, Bradley said:
"It's my right foot that's bothering me a little bit. It's got a little bit of a bruise, so it kind of limited me in the seven on sevens and stuff." (HSA)
Praising how Bradley looked in practice, Mouse said:
"He looked pretty good to me. The main thing is that he really wants (to play) and that's the important thing. He's working very hard at it." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Saying he was both anxious and excited, Bradley arrived at the practice field hours early yesterday, wanting to test out his leg. With each step in every route, Bradley got back the confidence that saw him catch 31 balls for 575 yards and five touchdowns in a little over five games as a junior."
About how things went well with his return from leg injury, Bradley said:
"At first I thought it was going to be a little tough coming back mentally with it, but today I didn't favor it at all. I wasn't really thinking about it." (HSA)
About how he may redshirt if Bradley is healthy enough to play this season, Darius Bright said:
"It's a possibility. I'm just working through it. (Bradley's) been looking pretty good. The main thing is we're competing, but we're still working together as one team." (HSA)
Freshman Moses Samia called yesterday's practice:
"nothing like what we do at Saint Louis." (HSA)
About how he is focused on football and is not going to play baseball right now, Samia said:
"I think I could do both, (but) thinking about it, I think the best thing to do right now is to try and focus on one sport. Yeah, it's football right now." (HSA)
Mouse Davis yelled to a WR that dropped a ball in the middle of the field:
"What did God give you the other hand for?" (HSA)
About how the WRs are listening to what Mouse sayd, Bradley said:
"He has that old school football voice. You hear him talk and you just buy into everything he says." (HSA)
http://www.hawaiiathletics.com/news/2010/8/6/FB_0806100259.aspx
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100806_Basic_training.html
http://www.staradvertiser.com/columnists/furtherreview/20100806_Early_start_could_be_good_omen_for_Warriors.html
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100806_Bradleys_back_in_running_after_going_at_full_speed.html
"Obviously we're in great shape and they have a great attitude. They were out there working hard as a group so they know that they're working as a team. These guys were doing it themselves. They organized things and worked with each other and (strength coordinator) Tommy Heffernan has just done an outstanding job with them." (UH)
About how they have several freshman and JC transfers that might be able to help them right away, Mack said:
"I think they'll be several newcomers that help us right off the ba. This was the first day of evaluation and we need another week of it then we'll have a better feel for it." (UH)
About the team staying in the dance studios during camp, Mack said:
"It's been great, we have an offensive and defensive coach and GA's stay overnight. We have rules, lights are out at 11:00. We're working, this is a camp and we're getting ready to play football." (UH)
Happy with the attitude of the team during their first practice, Mack said:
"It's a fun group to work with because they're serious about it. It was the first practice and we were just doing fundamentals and techniques but I liked what I saw." (UH)
About how their team will bond during camp, Mack said:
"Camp is about chemistry, guys getting to know each other." (HSA)
About his taking a leave from the team during spring practice and apologizing to the team, Bryant Moniz said:
"Yeah, that's in the past." (HSA)
"It was something I had to take care of. Everything is all good now." (HSA)
Moniz said that his goal is to
"learn from it and move on." (HSA)
About winning back the trust of the team, Moniz said:
"That's a daily job. Since I missed three weeks (of spring training), I have some catching up to do." (HSA)
About the title he could be given now that he's in his sixth year with UH, Laupepa Letuli said:
"Super senior." (HSA)
About how their OL needs to bond in camp, Letuli said:
"Understanding each other, developing camaraderie, knowing each other. We don't have that right now. We've got a couple of guys who started, but at different times last year." (HSA)
About how their team chemistry can be built during camp, Moniz said:
"We definitely have enough time. That's what this camp is for, to build up our chemistry, our rhythm. So we can get to the point where we're all on the same page." (HSA)
HSA Note: "a scheduled 2-hour practice went into a 45-minute overtime. (Players who did not complete the offseason conditioning program were required to run 50-yard sprints.)"
About how he'll work well with offensive coordinator Nick Rolovich, Mouse Davis said:
"Absolutely." (HSA)
About how he will not be intrusive, Mouse said:
"That's not our deal." (HSA)
Asked if he is possessive about the offense he created, Mouse said:
"Hell, no. I told him I want him to take (the offense) and try to make it better. This is Rolo's offense. I'm not looking to improve my friggin' resume. I'm looking to improve his resume." (HSA)
About how Mouse made sure that the WRs ran the pass routes as they are supposed to be run, Greg Salas said:
"He wants things done a specific way. He wants everyone on their landmarks. He wants everything done the right way." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Davis implored each receiver to use the "noose" technique, in which the thumbs and index fingers touch, creating a circle. That technique makes it easier for a receiver to catch passes only with his hands."
About Mouse teaching the noose technique, Salas said:
"We're bringing back the noose." (HSA)
When Salas made a leaping one-handed catch, Mouse said:
"Why did God give you the other hand?" (HSA)
About how he worked with a personal trainer over the past 2 months, Moniz said:
"I did a lot of work on small muscles, shoulder muscles." (HSA)
About missing the final 10 games last season after injuring his left knee in a weight-room accident, Letuli said:
"I was doing a workout I shouldn't have been doing, and I kind of tore (a knee ligament). I guess you could say it was my fault. It affected my team. I'm good now." (HSA)
About how he is healthy and hopes to compete for the starting QB spot, Brent Rausch said:
"My arm feels good, my hand feels good, it's the same offense. Hopefully, I can get some reps." (HSA)
About putting his struggles (mostly with injury) during his first 2 UH seasons behind him for his last season, Rausch said:
"What do you have to lose? That's pretty much where I'm at. There's a lot less stress actually. It's cool." (HSA)
About his son Sterling Jackson walking on to UH, 4,500 miles away from their home in Georgia, his father Steve Jackson said:
"We thank God for the opportunity. We trust Sterling will work hard and make the opportunity work for him." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Bradley, who missed the final seven games after he suffered two fractures in his left leg, ran full speed in passing drills yesterday. He was not used in the final 11-on-11 drill because of a sore right foot."
About how his sore right foot will not keep him from practicing today, Rodney Bradley said:
"I think I was going too hard because I was anxious. I'll be ready." (HSA)
HSA Note: "At times during yesterday's first practice of fall camp, senior receiver Rodney Bradley walked around with a noticeable limp."
About testing his leg at full speed for the first time, Bradley said:
"It was the first day I really pushed it to see if it could handle everything I gave it and it felt good." (HSA)
Asked why he was limping, Bradley said:
"It's my right foot that's bothering me a little bit. It's got a little bit of a bruise, so it kind of limited me in the seven on sevens and stuff." (HSA)
Praising how Bradley looked in practice, Mouse said:
"He looked pretty good to me. The main thing is that he really wants (to play) and that's the important thing. He's working very hard at it." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Saying he was both anxious and excited, Bradley arrived at the practice field hours early yesterday, wanting to test out his leg. With each step in every route, Bradley got back the confidence that saw him catch 31 balls for 575 yards and five touchdowns in a little over five games as a junior."
About how things went well with his return from leg injury, Bradley said:
"At first I thought it was going to be a little tough coming back mentally with it, but today I didn't favor it at all. I wasn't really thinking about it." (HSA)
About how he may redshirt if Bradley is healthy enough to play this season, Darius Bright said:
"It's a possibility. I'm just working through it. (Bradley's) been looking pretty good. The main thing is we're competing, but we're still working together as one team." (HSA)
Freshman Moses Samia called yesterday's practice:
"nothing like what we do at Saint Louis." (HSA)
About how he is focused on football and is not going to play baseball right now, Samia said:
"I think I could do both, (but) thinking about it, I think the best thing to do right now is to try and focus on one sport. Yeah, it's football right now." (HSA)
Mouse Davis yelled to a WR that dropped a ball in the middle of the field:
"What did God give you the other hand for?" (HSA)
About how the WRs are listening to what Mouse sayd, Bradley said:
"He has that old school football voice. You hear him talk and you just buy into everything he says." (HSA)
http://www.hawaiiathletics.com/news/2010/8/6/FB_0806100259.aspx
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100806_Basic_training.html
http://www.staradvertiser.com/columnists/furtherreview/20100806_Early_start_could_be_good_omen_for_Warriors.html
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100806_Bradleys_back_in_running_after_going_at_full_speed.html
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Feature on how the Warriors will be living at the dance studios during training camp
About the best spots in the dance studious that they will be living in for the 2+ weeks of training camp, Adrian Thomas said:
"You want to be out of the sun, but near the breeze." (HSA)
HSA Note: "In what started as a cost-cutting move that eventually became a training-camp tradition, the Warriors stay in two dance studios on the second floor of the UH athletic complex. The locker room is a floor below; an L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is 20 yards away."
About the dance studious, Jake Heun said:
"Five-star hotel." (HSA)
About how he was with the seniors and true freshmen in Studio 3 last year but he's in Studio 2 this year, Cayman Shutter said:
"I made it to the big-boy room. Even though I'm considered a freshman, second-year players get to go with the big boys." (HSA)
About how pillow fights are an accepted hazing ritual, Shane Austin said:
"For the rookies, you have to stay in groups. Everybody can keep a lookout for people coming in with pillows. For vets, you have nothing to worry about." (HSA)
About how Dan Kelly was ambushed when he was a senior, Austin said:
"He was avoiding it for a few years. It kind of caught up to him." (HSA)
About how people prefer to have their cots in the corners, Austin said:
"They're nice and cool and shady. In the middle, you're out in the open. In the corners, you have a little more privacy." (HSA)
Lewis Walker said that it is important:
"to get a spot nice and early." (HSA)
However, Walker noted that the strongest rule in the dance studios so:
"Somebody can move your things if they want that spot." (HSA)
About how he has a nice setup, Siaki Cravens said:
"It can get pretty hot. I've got my bed right by the window. I've got the breeze coming in. I've got my fan there, too. And I'm by an outlet. I can plug in my phone charger. Everything is good." (HSA)
About how he took everything with him when he went back to the Bay Area for a month, so he arrived with 2 full suitcases when he returned to Hawaii, Chizzy Dimude said:
"I took everything -- basically clothes and shoes. Too many. I didn't pack for training camp. I packed for Hawaii." (HSA)
About how he is avoiding the space near the front door, Dimude said:
"Last year, I was by the doors, but the cockroaches came in. I want to get more inside, away from the cockroaches. That's the key." (HSA)
About the huge cockroaches in the dance studios, Greg Salas said:
"They're huge cockroaches up there. It's crazy. They fly. They run up to you. They're crazy." (HSA)
Sad that this will be his last training camp, Salas said:
"It's going to be sad this is the last year." (HSA)
Sad that this will be his last training camp, Thomas said:
"I can't believe this is my last camp already. I'm going to make it the best one." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100806_At_camp_players_battle_for_position_--_of_cots.html
"You want to be out of the sun, but near the breeze." (HSA)
HSA Note: "In what started as a cost-cutting move that eventually became a training-camp tradition, the Warriors stay in two dance studios on the second floor of the UH athletic complex. The locker room is a floor below; an L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is 20 yards away."
About the dance studious, Jake Heun said:
"Five-star hotel." (HSA)
About how he was with the seniors and true freshmen in Studio 3 last year but he's in Studio 2 this year, Cayman Shutter said:
"I made it to the big-boy room. Even though I'm considered a freshman, second-year players get to go with the big boys." (HSA)
About how pillow fights are an accepted hazing ritual, Shane Austin said:
"For the rookies, you have to stay in groups. Everybody can keep a lookout for people coming in with pillows. For vets, you have nothing to worry about." (HSA)
About how Dan Kelly was ambushed when he was a senior, Austin said:
"He was avoiding it for a few years. It kind of caught up to him." (HSA)
About how people prefer to have their cots in the corners, Austin said:
"They're nice and cool and shady. In the middle, you're out in the open. In the corners, you have a little more privacy." (HSA)
Lewis Walker said that it is important:
"to get a spot nice and early." (HSA)
However, Walker noted that the strongest rule in the dance studios so:
"Somebody can move your things if they want that spot." (HSA)
About how he has a nice setup, Siaki Cravens said:
"It can get pretty hot. I've got my bed right by the window. I've got the breeze coming in. I've got my fan there, too. And I'm by an outlet. I can plug in my phone charger. Everything is good." (HSA)
About how he took everything with him when he went back to the Bay Area for a month, so he arrived with 2 full suitcases when he returned to Hawaii, Chizzy Dimude said:
"I took everything -- basically clothes and shoes. Too many. I didn't pack for training camp. I packed for Hawaii." (HSA)
About how he is avoiding the space near the front door, Dimude said:
"Last year, I was by the doors, but the cockroaches came in. I want to get more inside, away from the cockroaches. That's the key." (HSA)
About the huge cockroaches in the dance studios, Greg Salas said:
"They're huge cockroaches up there. It's crazy. They fly. They run up to you. They're crazy." (HSA)
Sad that this will be his last training camp, Salas said:
"It's going to be sad this is the last year." (HSA)
Sad that this will be his last training camp, Thomas said:
"I can't believe this is my last camp already. I'm going to make it the best one." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100806_At_camp_players_battle_for_position_--_of_cots.html
Leroy Lutu Jr. is switching from UH's basketball team to UH's football team
HSA Note: "Leroy Lutu Jr., a walk-on junior guard with the Hawaii men's basketball team, has decided to take his talents across the UH athletics complex to play for the Warriors football team as a safety. Secondary coach Rich Miano said yesterday that Lutu Jr., the son of former University High and Washington Huskies standout Leroy Lutu, will redshirt this season once he arrives on campus for the start of the fall semester later this month."
About how he and his family thought that football was best for him, Leroy Lutu Jr. said:
"My family and I thought football was the right choice for my future. I enjoyed playing basketball at UH, but I'm excited for what may lie ahead in football." (HSA)
Excited about having Lutu Jr. on their team for 2 years after his redshirt season, Rich Miano said:
"We're extremely excited about his athleticism, his bloodline, his potential. We're very excited that Coach Arnold allowed that to happen. You look at his vertical jump, close to 40 inches, and you look at his size ... he's a prototype NFL type of safety. We have a hard time finding guys that big, strong, fast." (HSA)
HSA Note: 'Miano added it's to be determined whether Lutu will play free or strong safety, or even linebacker if he got bigger. Safeties Spencer Smith and Mana Silva are seniors, leaving a hole that Lutu could potentially fill."
About how Lutu Jr. will have a chance to compete for a starting spot and a scholarship by next year, Miano said:
"If he can learn the system in a year, he'll have a chance to compete for a job, and a scholarship, by next year." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Lutu Jr. was a two-sport player at Mercer Island, and, as a defensive back, he got more Division I recruiting looks than in basketball. But he chose to play hoops, his first love, as a walk-on for his first two years at UH under Bob Nash. As a sophomore, he averaged 1.9 points in 7.7 minutes per game. However, he closed the season strong with career-high efforts of 12 points in each of the last two games."
About how Lutu Jr. had a spot on his basketball team if he had wanted it, new UH basketball coach Gib Arnold said:
"He thought his best chance to be successful at the collegiate level would be in football. And I support him in that. I would have loved to have him with us, but in the same breath, if he can help the football team, that's great. Same school, same colors. I hope he can go on and have a great career. ... I'll be one of his biggest fans." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100806_Lutu_leaves_court_for_field.html
About how he and his family thought that football was best for him, Leroy Lutu Jr. said:
"My family and I thought football was the right choice for my future. I enjoyed playing basketball at UH, but I'm excited for what may lie ahead in football." (HSA)
Excited about having Lutu Jr. on their team for 2 years after his redshirt season, Rich Miano said:
"We're extremely excited about his athleticism, his bloodline, his potential. We're very excited that Coach Arnold allowed that to happen. You look at his vertical jump, close to 40 inches, and you look at his size ... he's a prototype NFL type of safety. We have a hard time finding guys that big, strong, fast." (HSA)
HSA Note: 'Miano added it's to be determined whether Lutu will play free or strong safety, or even linebacker if he got bigger. Safeties Spencer Smith and Mana Silva are seniors, leaving a hole that Lutu could potentially fill."
About how Lutu Jr. will have a chance to compete for a starting spot and a scholarship by next year, Miano said:
"If he can learn the system in a year, he'll have a chance to compete for a job, and a scholarship, by next year." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Lutu Jr. was a two-sport player at Mercer Island, and, as a defensive back, he got more Division I recruiting looks than in basketball. But he chose to play hoops, his first love, as a walk-on for his first two years at UH under Bob Nash. As a sophomore, he averaged 1.9 points in 7.7 minutes per game. However, he closed the season strong with career-high efforts of 12 points in each of the last two games."
About how Lutu Jr. had a spot on his basketball team if he had wanted it, new UH basketball coach Gib Arnold said:
"He thought his best chance to be successful at the collegiate level would be in football. And I support him in that. I would have loved to have him with us, but in the same breath, if he can help the football team, that's great. Same school, same colors. I hope he can go on and have a great career. ... I'll be one of his biggest fans." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100806_Lutu_leaves_court_for_field.html
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
First-year Warrior players (including Veni Manu) reported to training camp yesterday, Aaron Brown is out with injury for at least a week
HSA Note: "Manu, a defensive end and 2009 Mililani High graduate, was among more than 20 first-year Warriors to report to training camp yesterday."
Happy to finally make it to UH, Veni Manu said:
"It feels good to make it." (HSA)
"I'm happy to be a Warrior. I'm nervous, but it feels good to be able to take the next step." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Manu did not attend UH during the 2009 fall semester while attempting to earn a higher SAT score. He achieved that goal, then waited to be cleared to play for the Warriors."
HSA Note: "Manu's ongoing goal is to regain the 40 pounds he lost while sitting out the past year. Manu, who is 6-foot-3, weighed 245 when he signed with UH 18 months ago. He was down to 205 pounds two months ago, but now is up to 215."
About how many of the freshmen took advantage of the "bridge" term implemented this summer (6-week session that offered two 3-credit classes that ended right before the start of training camp), Mack said:
"They get to earn credits that will give them a head start toward a degree." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Dee Maggitt, a cornerback from Washington, said arriving in Hawaii last month enabled him to work out with future teammates during unsupervised drills."
About living in the dance studios during the next 2 weeks of camp, Siaki Cravens said:
"We won't mind. This will bring us together as a team, even if we'll be in a place we're not used to. Living together and working together will make us a closer team, and that's going to help us this season." (HSA)
Looking forward to the start of camp, Austin Hansen (who was one of the vets who welcomed the new Warriors yesterday) said:
"Everybody is excited to work hard, and have our fans support us. We have the best fans in the world." (HSA)
About how his sprained right ankle will make him miss at least the first week of training camp, Aaron Brown (who was on crutches yesterday) said:
"Luckily, it's not broken." (HSA)
HSA Note: "He said he suffered the injury when he landed awkwardly doing plyometrics, exercises that involve jumping onto boxes. Brown and Paipai Falemalu are listed as the top strong-side linebackers. In two schemes, both are on the field at the same time as linebackers, and in another, Falemalu slides to defensive end while Brown remains at linebacker."
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100804_Reporting_day.html
Happy to finally make it to UH, Veni Manu said:
"It feels good to make it." (HSA)
"I'm happy to be a Warrior. I'm nervous, but it feels good to be able to take the next step." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Manu did not attend UH during the 2009 fall semester while attempting to earn a higher SAT score. He achieved that goal, then waited to be cleared to play for the Warriors."
HSA Note: "Manu's ongoing goal is to regain the 40 pounds he lost while sitting out the past year. Manu, who is 6-foot-3, weighed 245 when he signed with UH 18 months ago. He was down to 205 pounds two months ago, but now is up to 215."
About how many of the freshmen took advantage of the "bridge" term implemented this summer (6-week session that offered two 3-credit classes that ended right before the start of training camp), Mack said:
"They get to earn credits that will give them a head start toward a degree." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Dee Maggitt, a cornerback from Washington, said arriving in Hawaii last month enabled him to work out with future teammates during unsupervised drills."
About living in the dance studios during the next 2 weeks of camp, Siaki Cravens said:
"We won't mind. This will bring us together as a team, even if we'll be in a place we're not used to. Living together and working together will make us a closer team, and that's going to help us this season." (HSA)
Looking forward to the start of camp, Austin Hansen (who was one of the vets who welcomed the new Warriors yesterday) said:
"Everybody is excited to work hard, and have our fans support us. We have the best fans in the world." (HSA)
About how his sprained right ankle will make him miss at least the first week of training camp, Aaron Brown (who was on crutches yesterday) said:
"Luckily, it's not broken." (HSA)
HSA Note: "He said he suffered the injury when he landed awkwardly doing plyometrics, exercises that involve jumping onto boxes. Brown and Paipai Falemalu are listed as the top strong-side linebackers. In two schemes, both are on the field at the same time as linebackers, and in another, Falemalu slides to defensive end while Brown remains at linebacker."
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100804_Reporting_day.html
UH is having trouble filling the hole in the 2011 schedule due to the loss of BSU
About how this is late to try to schedule a game for the 2011 season, UH associate AD Carl Clapp said:
"In football scheduling terms it (the 2011 season) is practically tomorrow." (HSA)
About how conference expansion caused their hole in their schedule, JD said:
"That's one of the challenges of conference expansion and we have to deal with it. We feel like it is better than 50/50 we'll have something." (HSA)
HSA Note: "WAC athletic directors are scheduled to discuss the situation at a meeting later this month and, so far, only Louisiana Tech and Utah State are listed as having found replacements. The Bulldogs are expected to play at Mississippi, while the Aggies will get a home date with Wyoming."
About how their limited options to fill their hole in their schedule, JD said:
"Our options are to get somebody to play us here without breaking the bank, going on the road, playing another (Football Bowl Subdivision) team or just playing a 12-game schedule." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Adding a road game would, barring additional changes, leave UH with more road games (seven) than home games (six) for the first time in school history. UH is already contracted to play at Washington and Nevada-Las Vegas in 2011."
About how they want to fill their schedule in the next 30 days, Clapp said:
"We want to do what is best for our football team and our fans." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Since UH wasn't contracted to pay Boise State a guarantee, any nonconference opponent it would bring over would come at a cost and the visitor would have significant leverage."
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100804_Replacing_Boise_as_hard_as_beating_Boise.html
"In football scheduling terms it (the 2011 season) is practically tomorrow." (HSA)
About how conference expansion caused their hole in their schedule, JD said:
"That's one of the challenges of conference expansion and we have to deal with it. We feel like it is better than 50/50 we'll have something." (HSA)
HSA Note: "WAC athletic directors are scheduled to discuss the situation at a meeting later this month and, so far, only Louisiana Tech and Utah State are listed as having found replacements. The Bulldogs are expected to play at Mississippi, while the Aggies will get a home date with Wyoming."
About how their limited options to fill their hole in their schedule, JD said:
"Our options are to get somebody to play us here without breaking the bank, going on the road, playing another (Football Bowl Subdivision) team or just playing a 12-game schedule." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Adding a road game would, barring additional changes, leave UH with more road games (seven) than home games (six) for the first time in school history. UH is already contracted to play at Washington and Nevada-Las Vegas in 2011."
About how they want to fill their schedule in the next 30 days, Clapp said:
"We want to do what is best for our football team and our fans." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Since UH wasn't contracted to pay Boise State a guarantee, any nonconference opponent it would bring over would come at a cost and the visitor would have significant leverage."
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100804_Replacing_Boise_as_hard_as_beating_Boise.html
John Hardy-Tuilau talked about blocking a California State-record 26 kicks in high school
About how he blocked a California state-record 26 kicks in high school, John Hardy-Tuilau said:
"There's no secret to (blocking kicks). I just have a knack for it. They started double-teaming me, which was good because it opened it up for somebody else." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/columnists/furtherreview/20100804_If_your_boss_is_a_UH_fan_too_you_can_skip_work_together.html
"There's no secret to (blocking kicks). I just have a knack for it. They started double-teaming me, which was good because it opened it up for somebody else." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/columnists/furtherreview/20100804_If_your_boss_is_a_UH_fan_too_you_can_skip_work_together.html
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Interview with Colt Brennan's agent in the HSA
About how he will "exhaust every option" to find an NFL job for Colt, Colt's agent Ryan Tollner said:
"We're certainly hopeful he'll get another chance pretty quickly." (HSA)
About being surprised at being cut, Colt said:
"It was a total surprise. I really thought I had a good practice (yesterday). I really liked working with the staff." (HSA)
About how Colt could can fit into any NFL system, Tollner said:
"I think he can fit any system out there in the NFL. It'll be a function of getting enough reps to learn the system and getting comfortable." (HSA)
HSA Note: "But Tollner said it was apparent Mike Shanahan, who was hired as head coach to replace the fired Jim Zorn, wanted to bring in his own quarterbacks. The Redskins dealt Campbell to the Oakland Raiders and cut Collins. They traded for Donovan McNabb, signed Rex Grossman and, yesterday, made a deal for John Beck from the Baltimore Ravens. The acquisition of Beck, a former BYU quarterback who was drafted in the second round by Miami in 2007, led to Brennan's release."
About how Washington's new coaching staff wanted their own QBs, Tollner said:
"I think it's clear the Redskins' new coaching staff wants their own set of quarterbacks. That's OK. That's the way it goes in the NFL. (The Redskins) do believe Colt can play in that league, and felt this was the right move for him to have an opportunity to catch on early in (another team's) camp and get into preseason games and compete. When he does, he needs to make it happen." (HSA)
About how he made several calls on Colt's behalf to CFL teams yesterday and how he expects Colt to eventually become a productive NFL QB, JJ said:
"I always thought (Texas Tech's) Graham Harrell and Colt Brennan were two quarterbacks who can make it in the NFL. I still believe that." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100803_Colt_cut_loose.html
"We're certainly hopeful he'll get another chance pretty quickly." (HSA)
About being surprised at being cut, Colt said:
"It was a total surprise. I really thought I had a good practice (yesterday). I really liked working with the staff." (HSA)
About how Colt could can fit into any NFL system, Tollner said:
"I think he can fit any system out there in the NFL. It'll be a function of getting enough reps to learn the system and getting comfortable." (HSA)
HSA Note: "But Tollner said it was apparent Mike Shanahan, who was hired as head coach to replace the fired Jim Zorn, wanted to bring in his own quarterbacks. The Redskins dealt Campbell to the Oakland Raiders and cut Collins. They traded for Donovan McNabb, signed Rex Grossman and, yesterday, made a deal for John Beck from the Baltimore Ravens. The acquisition of Beck, a former BYU quarterback who was drafted in the second round by Miami in 2007, led to Brennan's release."
About how Washington's new coaching staff wanted their own QBs, Tollner said:
"I think it's clear the Redskins' new coaching staff wants their own set of quarterbacks. That's OK. That's the way it goes in the NFL. (The Redskins) do believe Colt can play in that league, and felt this was the right move for him to have an opportunity to catch on early in (another team's) camp and get into preseason games and compete. When he does, he needs to make it happen." (HSA)
About how he made several calls on Colt's behalf to CFL teams yesterday and how he expects Colt to eventually become a productive NFL QB, JJ said:
"I always thought (Texas Tech's) Graham Harrell and Colt Brennan were two quarterbacks who can make it in the NFL. I still believe that." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100803_Colt_cut_loose.html
Monday, August 2, 2010
Colt Brennan was surprised when he was cut after practice today
WP = Washington Post
About his surprise when he was cut by the Redskins today, Colt Brennan said:
"I was totally surprised. I actually was walking off the field today and someone asked, 'How'd you do today?' I said I had a good day. It was a good practice, so I said I'd have a good rest of the day. It was definitely a surprise." (WP)
About the Washington cutting him and trading for John Beck today, Colt said:
"It had nothing to do with my play. To be honest with you, it was never a situation with me playing and how I did. It was basically that they always had a real strong interest in John Beck. [Offensive coordinator] Kyle [Shanahan] said he had looked into getting John early on and they couldn't get him. He was excited about my film and interested in working with me. But when this deal came down, they jumped on it. They told me they wanted to give me an opportunity to grow." (WP)
Praising Washington for giving him a chance early on in camp, Colt said:
"They wanted me to have a chance early on in camp. They didn't want to put me in a bad position. Kyle told me I'm a kid who needs reps. Kyle's an awesome guy, and that's the only thing that's really kind of a bummer, because I love this coaching staff. They've been really cool to me and I was building a great relationship with them. But this is a business. They said they would do anything they could to help me. They told me they think I can play, so they just wanted to give me an opportunity to catch on somewhere." (WP)
WP Note: "Brennan hurt his left hip during the final 2009 preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars/ The team decided to put him on the season-ending injured-reserved list and he underwent surgery. Brennan had surgery on his right hip before his rookie year. Brennan had base salaries of $295,000 in 2008 and $385,000 last season. Although he became a fan favorite after his productive rookie debut in the 2008 Hall of Fame game, he has never appeared in regular-season game."
About how he can sign with any team if he clears waivers in the next 24 hours, Colt said:
"It's just a wait-and-see process right now, but it's definitely a bummer because I was definitely looking forward to making a home here. I definitely love the area, and I can't say enough about how good the fans have been to me." (WP)
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/redskinsinsider/quarterbacks/colt-brennan-says-skins-wanted.html
About his surprise when he was cut by the Redskins today, Colt Brennan said:
"I was totally surprised. I actually was walking off the field today and someone asked, 'How'd you do today?' I said I had a good day. It was a good practice, so I said I'd have a good rest of the day. It was definitely a surprise." (WP)
About the Washington cutting him and trading for John Beck today, Colt said:
"It had nothing to do with my play. To be honest with you, it was never a situation with me playing and how I did. It was basically that they always had a real strong interest in John Beck. [Offensive coordinator] Kyle [Shanahan] said he had looked into getting John early on and they couldn't get him. He was excited about my film and interested in working with me. But when this deal came down, they jumped on it. They told me they wanted to give me an opportunity to grow." (WP)
Praising Washington for giving him a chance early on in camp, Colt said:
"They wanted me to have a chance early on in camp. They didn't want to put me in a bad position. Kyle told me I'm a kid who needs reps. Kyle's an awesome guy, and that's the only thing that's really kind of a bummer, because I love this coaching staff. They've been really cool to me and I was building a great relationship with them. But this is a business. They said they would do anything they could to help me. They told me they think I can play, so they just wanted to give me an opportunity to catch on somewhere." (WP)
WP Note: "Brennan hurt his left hip during the final 2009 preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars/ The team decided to put him on the season-ending injured-reserved list and he underwent surgery. Brennan had surgery on his right hip before his rookie year. Brennan had base salaries of $295,000 in 2008 and $385,000 last season. Although he became a fan favorite after his productive rookie debut in the 2008 Hall of Fame game, he has never appeared in regular-season game."
About how he can sign with any team if he clears waivers in the next 24 hours, Colt said:
"It's just a wait-and-see process right now, but it's definitely a bummer because I was definitely looking forward to making a home here. I definitely love the area, and I can't say enough about how good the fans have been to me." (WP)
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/redskinsinsider/quarterbacks/colt-brennan-says-skins-wanted.html
UH fans will have to buy the PPV package from Oceanic or miss UH football games on TV
About having all the football games (except for the USC game) on PPV, UH fan Derrell Saul said:
"UH is a public institution, something just isn't right about dealing exclusively with Oceanic. I'm extremely disappointed that UH is ignoring me as a broadcast consumer." (HSA)
About how he is surprised to hear complaints because PPV is being handled the same way as previous years,JD said:
"I'm a little bit surprised that there would be any comments in that regard because that's exactly how it was last year and the year before and the year before that. I mean, there's been no change since ... 2002, maybe?" (HSA)
About how PPV insures that many people cannot see UH games, Jon Cole (who lives in Mountain View on the Big Island) said:
"... the contract with Oceanic purposely excludes thousands of homes across the state -- and none that I know think kindly about it." (HSA)
About how Oceanic is not an option for him on the Island, Cole (who has DirecTV) said:
"The cost to get cable on our street ... is still around $7,500, and that is out of our indulgence range in the best of times." (HSA)
HSA Note: "A UH spokesman said the athletic department has fielded "few" complaints about the arrangement. In past years, some of UH's most attractive games -- home and away -- have been picked up by ESPN under the Western Athletic Conference TV agreement, which satellite customers can receive. The number of ESPN games averaged almost three each regular season over the past seven years. But coming off a 6-7 finish in 2009, only the USC game was selected this year, making this Oceanic's most extensive UH offering."
HSA Note: "UH's football games this season, with the exception of the first three (USC, Army and Colorado), which Oceanic said it does not have replay rights to, will continue to be shown delayed free on Sunday mornings on KFVE."
HSA Note: "The UH contract, along with its proprietary OC 16 high school sports channel, gives Oceanic Time Warner a local sports niche that other cable outlets and satellite providers DirecTV and DISH Network are unable to match. Studies indicate that while satellite subscriptions have grown on the mainland, Hawaii is one of the markets least penetrated by satellite providers. Less than 10 percent here are satellite customers, compared with as much as 30 percent on the mainland."
About how sports fans in Hawaii decide between Oceanic and satellite, Jason Gardner (President of The Satellite Guy, Inc. who monitors TV trends in Hawaii) said:
"People that have satellite weigh having UH games compared to the other sports packages, especially pro ball, and decide which is best for them. Some go with UH and sacrifice NFL, MLS, NHL or NBA on a full-time schedule. However, most choose to get satellite and watch UH at a sports bar as it's still a PPV event that costs extra." (HSA)
HSA Note: "There is a clause in the current UH contract that allows Oceanic the option of keeping or dropping KFVE as a production partner beginning in 2011. The window for negotiation begins in two months and there has been speculation that Oceanic could choose to keep everything in-house or continue the mix of over-the-air and cable offerings that total more than 100 events per year that KFVE currently presents."
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100802_ppv_or_nothing_for_uh.html
"UH is a public institution, something just isn't right about dealing exclusively with Oceanic. I'm extremely disappointed that UH is ignoring me as a broadcast consumer." (HSA)
About how he is surprised to hear complaints because PPV is being handled the same way as previous years,JD said:
"I'm a little bit surprised that there would be any comments in that regard because that's exactly how it was last year and the year before and the year before that. I mean, there's been no change since ... 2002, maybe?" (HSA)
About how PPV insures that many people cannot see UH games, Jon Cole (who lives in Mountain View on the Big Island) said:
"... the contract with Oceanic purposely excludes thousands of homes across the state -- and none that I know think kindly about it." (HSA)
About how Oceanic is not an option for him on the Island, Cole (who has DirecTV) said:
"The cost to get cable on our street ... is still around $7,500, and that is out of our indulgence range in the best of times." (HSA)
HSA Note: "A UH spokesman said the athletic department has fielded "few" complaints about the arrangement. In past years, some of UH's most attractive games -- home and away -- have been picked up by ESPN under the Western Athletic Conference TV agreement, which satellite customers can receive. The number of ESPN games averaged almost three each regular season over the past seven years. But coming off a 6-7 finish in 2009, only the USC game was selected this year, making this Oceanic's most extensive UH offering."
HSA Note: "UH's football games this season, with the exception of the first three (USC, Army and Colorado), which Oceanic said it does not have replay rights to, will continue to be shown delayed free on Sunday mornings on KFVE."
HSA Note: "The UH contract, along with its proprietary OC 16 high school sports channel, gives Oceanic Time Warner a local sports niche that other cable outlets and satellite providers DirecTV and DISH Network are unable to match. Studies indicate that while satellite subscriptions have grown on the mainland, Hawaii is one of the markets least penetrated by satellite providers. Less than 10 percent here are satellite customers, compared with as much as 30 percent on the mainland."
About how sports fans in Hawaii decide between Oceanic and satellite, Jason Gardner (President of The Satellite Guy, Inc. who monitors TV trends in Hawaii) said:
"People that have satellite weigh having UH games compared to the other sports packages, especially pro ball, and decide which is best for them. Some go with UH and sacrifice NFL, MLS, NHL or NBA on a full-time schedule. However, most choose to get satellite and watch UH at a sports bar as it's still a PPV event that costs extra." (HSA)
HSA Note: "There is a clause in the current UH contract that allows Oceanic the option of keeping or dropping KFVE as a production partner beginning in 2011. The window for negotiation begins in two months and there has been speculation that Oceanic could choose to keep everything in-house or continue the mix of over-the-air and cable offerings that total more than 100 events per year that KFVE currently presents."
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100802_ppv_or_nothing_for_uh.html
Quotes from Aranda and Rolo in the HSA
About serving an internship with the Cincinnati Bengals and trying to avoid being on the reality shows that 3 Bengals have, Dave Aranda said:
"I'm trying to stay away from the cameras." (HSA)
Asked how long their coaches' meeting would last, Rolo said:
"December 24th." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Fun fact: Of the 22 projected starters, seven joined as walk-ons and seven entered as transfers."
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100802_how_the_wac_teams_stack_up.html
"I'm trying to stay away from the cameras." (HSA)
Asked how long their coaches' meeting would last, Rolo said:
"December 24th." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Fun fact: Of the 22 projected starters, seven joined as walk-ons and seven entered as transfers."
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100802_how_the_wac_teams_stack_up.html
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Ikaika Alama-Francis is getting serious consideration at OLB with the Dolphins
SFSS = South Florida Sun-Sentinel
PBP = Palm Beach Post
SFSS Note: "Sparano said linebacker coach Bill Sheridan rammed the idea "down his throat," and the more he watched Alama-Francis move during the offseason conditioning program the more he became intrigued."
About how they want to see what "Ike" can do at OLB, Miami Dolphins head coach Tony Sparano said:
"We really want to see this guy, give him the opportunity to play this position. We really want to take a good long look at this project because there's something there that's different than some of the other guys at the position, and we kind of want to see if this can be a possibility." (SFSS)
About how Alama-Francis is 275 pounds now and can move well enough for an OLB, Sparano said:
"To watch him move in some of the drills and things, he was doing [well] for a guy his size….he's a strong player and his movement do not NOT remind you of a big strong linebacker. We want to take a long look at it, and the more we got him involved in coverage things the more fluid we saw him move out there. He's not a finished project by any stretch of the imagination, but the guy is getting better, and he really works at it." (SFSS)
About how they are serious about Alama-Francis at OLB, Sparano said:
"I don't think right now we're putting our toe in the water on this. We're kind of saying, 'Hey, we really want to see this guy and give him the opportunity to play this position.'" (PBP)
About how JJ convinced Alama-Francis to try football during his sophomore year at UH, Davone Bess said:
"June Jones went out and told him if he came out and played football he'd be a first-round pick. And he ended up being an early second-round pick, so I guess coach knew what he was talking about." (PBP)
About how he had no problem in dropping 15 pounds (he said "no more Hawaiian food") to be able to switch to OLB, Alama-Francis said:
"I said, 'Whatever I can do to help the team. You want me to go to free safety, strong safety, what (do) you want? Anything to help this team." (PBP)
About how they want to see if Alama-Francis can be an OLB for them, Sparano said:
"He's not a finished project by any stretch of the imagination. We really want to take a good, long look at this project, because there's something there that's different than some of the other guys at the position, OK? We kind of want to see if this can be a possibility." (PBP)
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/sports/dolphins/miami-dolphins-give-ikaika-alama-francis-serious-consideration-836017.html
http://blogs.sun-sentinel.com/sports_football_dolphins/2010/07/could-ikaika-alama-francis-become-dolphins-starter.html
PBP = Palm Beach Post
SFSS Note: "Sparano said linebacker coach Bill Sheridan rammed the idea "down his throat," and the more he watched Alama-Francis move during the offseason conditioning program the more he became intrigued."
About how they want to see what "Ike" can do at OLB, Miami Dolphins head coach Tony Sparano said:
"We really want to see this guy, give him the opportunity to play this position. We really want to take a good long look at this project because there's something there that's different than some of the other guys at the position, and we kind of want to see if this can be a possibility." (SFSS)
About how Alama-Francis is 275 pounds now and can move well enough for an OLB, Sparano said:
"To watch him move in some of the drills and things, he was doing [well] for a guy his size….he's a strong player and his movement do not NOT remind you of a big strong linebacker. We want to take a long look at it, and the more we got him involved in coverage things the more fluid we saw him move out there. He's not a finished project by any stretch of the imagination, but the guy is getting better, and he really works at it." (SFSS)
About how they are serious about Alama-Francis at OLB, Sparano said:
"I don't think right now we're putting our toe in the water on this. We're kind of saying, 'Hey, we really want to see this guy and give him the opportunity to play this position.'" (PBP)
About how JJ convinced Alama-Francis to try football during his sophomore year at UH, Davone Bess said:
"June Jones went out and told him if he came out and played football he'd be a first-round pick. And he ended up being an early second-round pick, so I guess coach knew what he was talking about." (PBP)
About how he had no problem in dropping 15 pounds (he said "no more Hawaiian food") to be able to switch to OLB, Alama-Francis said:
"I said, 'Whatever I can do to help the team. You want me to go to free safety, strong safety, what (do) you want? Anything to help this team." (PBP)
About how they want to see if Alama-Francis can be an OLB for them, Sparano said:
"He's not a finished project by any stretch of the imagination. We really want to take a good, long look at this project, because there's something there that's different than some of the other guys at the position, OK? We kind of want to see if this can be a possibility." (PBP)
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/sports/dolphins/miami-dolphins-give-ikaika-alama-francis-serious-consideration-836017.html
http://blogs.sun-sentinel.com/sports_football_dolphins/2010/07/could-ikaika-alama-francis-become-dolphins-starter.html
OC Rolovich is unsure if he'll call the plays from the sideline or in the coaches' booth (and other Warrior quotes in the HSA)
About how they haven't decided whether or not he'll be on the sideline or in the coaches' booth during games, Rolo said:
"We're looking at the two options." (HSA)
Rolo said that from the booth he'll be able to see the defensive coverages better, but:
"you lose that feel you get being on the field. I like being able to talk to players during the game, knowing what they're thinking and how they're feeling." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Last season, the Warriors were 24th nationally in total offense, averaging 437.46 yards per game. But they were 84th among 120 Division I-A teams in scoring (22.77 points per game) and dead last in red-zone efficiency, converting on 61 percent of the 57 drives from the opponents' 20 to the end zone."
About the message he gave his players for the offseason to try to avoid their red zone problems, Rolo said:
"Let's stay out of the red zone. Let's come alive when (slotback) Kealoha (Pilares) catches an out. Let's make these 38-yard gains to the 2, 40-yard touchdown passes. Make that the mind-set." (HSA)
About the mentality of their offense, Rolo said:
"In this (offense), you have to go to the bell. You have to have the knockout-blow mentality. If they keep wanting to get back up, you want to knock them down again. It's very similar to a heavyweight fight: swing until the bell rings or until they go down. That's the mentality of this offense." (HSA)
Praising Moniz's touch on his passes, Rolo said:
"He has a nice control over his arm." (HSA)
About Shane Austin taking the OL to an outing at Camp Timberline in Makakilo last Friday as a reward for their offseason work (paid by Shane's father) and how it was a bonding experience, Austin Hansen said:
"It was good to hang out and have fun with the guys." (HSA)
HSA Note: "In the past, UH quarterbacks Rolovich and Colt Brennan bought pizzas for their blockers. Austin said he wanted to try something his father had done."
About enrolling in a yoga class after suffering a painful groin injury during spring training, Chizzy Dimude said:
"I thought it would be easy. I was wrong. It was hard." (HSA)
About how the daily stretching appears to have helped him and he feels healthy and has not experienced any discomfort on his surgically repaired right shoulder that limited his blocking last season, Chizzy said:
"Everything is 100 percent. No excuses." (HSA)
About his injury-filled UH career, Laupepa Letuli said:
"No regrets. I want to have a good year." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Toilolo was poised to break into the rotation a year ago, but those plans were short-circuited when he suffered an injury to his right shoulder. At first, only rehabilitation was prescribed. Finally, it was decided he would undergo surgery. "He's ready to make a move," defensive coordinator Dave Aranda said. Ready for a clean start, Toilolo cut his long hair."
NFL scouts projected Lametrius Davis as a late-round pick in the 2011 draft, but Rich Miano said that:
"the arrow is definitely going up. He's our best cover guy. Not even close. He's the NFL prototype in terms of size, weight and speed." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100801_rolovich_unsure_where_hell_be_during_games.html
"We're looking at the two options." (HSA)
Rolo said that from the booth he'll be able to see the defensive coverages better, but:
"you lose that feel you get being on the field. I like being able to talk to players during the game, knowing what they're thinking and how they're feeling." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Last season, the Warriors were 24th nationally in total offense, averaging 437.46 yards per game. But they were 84th among 120 Division I-A teams in scoring (22.77 points per game) and dead last in red-zone efficiency, converting on 61 percent of the 57 drives from the opponents' 20 to the end zone."
About the message he gave his players for the offseason to try to avoid their red zone problems, Rolo said:
"Let's stay out of the red zone. Let's come alive when (slotback) Kealoha (Pilares) catches an out. Let's make these 38-yard gains to the 2, 40-yard touchdown passes. Make that the mind-set." (HSA)
About the mentality of their offense, Rolo said:
"In this (offense), you have to go to the bell. You have to have the knockout-blow mentality. If they keep wanting to get back up, you want to knock them down again. It's very similar to a heavyweight fight: swing until the bell rings or until they go down. That's the mentality of this offense." (HSA)
Praising Moniz's touch on his passes, Rolo said:
"He has a nice control over his arm." (HSA)
About Shane Austin taking the OL to an outing at Camp Timberline in Makakilo last Friday as a reward for their offseason work (paid by Shane's father) and how it was a bonding experience, Austin Hansen said:
"It was good to hang out and have fun with the guys." (HSA)
HSA Note: "In the past, UH quarterbacks Rolovich and Colt Brennan bought pizzas for their blockers. Austin said he wanted to try something his father had done."
About enrolling in a yoga class after suffering a painful groin injury during spring training, Chizzy Dimude said:
"I thought it would be easy. I was wrong. It was hard." (HSA)
About how the daily stretching appears to have helped him and he feels healthy and has not experienced any discomfort on his surgically repaired right shoulder that limited his blocking last season, Chizzy said:
"Everything is 100 percent. No excuses." (HSA)
About his injury-filled UH career, Laupepa Letuli said:
"No regrets. I want to have a good year." (HSA)
HSA Note: "Toilolo was poised to break into the rotation a year ago, but those plans were short-circuited when he suffered an injury to his right shoulder. At first, only rehabilitation was prescribed. Finally, it was decided he would undergo surgery. "He's ready to make a move," defensive coordinator Dave Aranda said. Ready for a clean start, Toilolo cut his long hair."
NFL scouts projected Lametrius Davis as a late-round pick in the 2011 draft, but Rich Miano said that:
"the arrow is definitely going up. He's our best cover guy. Not even close. He's the NFL prototype in terms of size, weight and speed." (HSA)
http://www.staradvertiser.com/sports/sportsnews/20100801_rolovich_unsure_where_hell_be_during_games.html
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