After sending Bulla Ginlack, Richard Torres, and Kawika Ornellas to the sideline when he noticed that they were not wearing team-issued shoes during their first practice, Mac said:
"Does anybody have the right shoes?" (HA)
About he can stop being a nice guy when the players mess up and need discipline, Mac said:
"This is football. It's a business. I'm a nice guy when it's time to be nice. But as (former UH linebacker Solomon Elimimian) once said, I have two personalities. These guys know me. They know I care about them. But when I want to make a point, I make a point." (HA)
About how they will focus this spring on perfecting techniques and reducing mistakes, Mac said:
"We can't have personal fouls. We had too many last year. That's laziness, and a lack of technique. We've learned from last year. We're going to get better." (HA)
HA Note: "NCAA rules prevent teams from wearing pads during the first two practices. The offensive linemen worked on hand techniques; the running backs on footwork and blocking (by hitting the heavy bag), and the quarterbacks and receivers on pass routes. The defensive players focused on alignments."
About their first spring practice, Mac said:
"We can't hit yet, but we got a lot of work in. The defense worked hard. We're trying to find 11 guys who can run to the football and hit. Hawai'i has always been known for hitting." (HA)
About how Kahuku coach Reggie Torres watched him work on his blocking, Kahuku alum Inoke said:
"It was probably a funny sight for him to see me hit the bag. From what I learned from the first practice, a running back has to keep a good base. You can't lunge, or the (defender) will get past you." (HA)
Inoke added:
"I survived the first day." (HA)
Asked how he would do this season, LWJ said:
"I'm not going to promise anything. I'm not going to say I'm going to do this or that. I'm just going to work." (HA)
Happy that practices have begun, after he missed most of the offseason training due to strep throat, Malcolm Lane said:
"Now I feel great. This is what I love most, being around my teammates and coaches. They keep me happy. It feels good to be back with the team. Everybody has a great love for each other, and they work hard, They're pushing each other." (HA)
About how last year was a difficult "transition season", Lane said:
"It hurts when you start the season with a quarterback who hasn't taken a (Division I) snap before. It was a learning experience. In the second half, (quarterback) Greg (Alexander) really picked it up. ... We really want to be successful this year. We don't want to finish the season like how we did last year." (HA)
HA Note: "Left tackle Aaron Kia was particularly energized yesterday, often racing 30 yards downfield during the 7-on-7 drills."
Hoping that his knee tendinitis problems from last year are behind him, Kia said:
"As long as my knees hold up. I'm a new me. It's up to my knees." (HA)
HA Note: "Kia noticed a small crowd that watched the offensive linemen work out in the Diamond Head end zone."
About how the OL wants to do better this year, Kia said:
"We want to make a good statement this year. We don't want to be the butt of every conversation about the down part of Hawai'i football." (HA)
About practice, Rocky Savaiigaea (who only played in one game last season because of a torn left triceps), said:
"For the first day, the intensity was good. It went well." (HA)
About the viral infection he had last year that caused him to lose 25 pounds and forced him to withdraw from school, Jovonte Taylor said:
"It was real scary. I felt like I was on my death bed. I'm feeling good. I couldn't feel any better." (HA)
About how he's now back to 185 pounds, Taylor said:
"I'm back running, and my knee feels good, too. I'm healthy. I'm ready to go." (HA)
About how he's only cleared for non-contact drills (he missed the 2008 season because of a herniated disc), Jake Heun said:
"I'm trying to get cleared to hit this week. Hopefully by Saturday, I'll be able to bang." (HA)
About being back at rush end after being recruited to UH as a RB, Heun said:
"I'm happy to be back on defense. That's the big thing for me." (HA)
About how he hopes to eventually move to OLB, Heun said:
"We'll see." (HA)
HA Note: "Outside linebacker Blaze Soares, who was on the field but did not participate in contact drills. Soares did not play last season because of a torn Achilles' heel. He is expected to be cleared at the end of April, enough time to prepare for the Aug. 3 start of training camp."
About practicing at #1 strongside LB, with Blaze out and Po'okela Ahmad in class, Vili Nauahi said:
"They're just throwing me out there." (HA)
About the instruction he received from the coaches, Nauahi said:
"I needed the scolding. I've got a lot to learn. Without the help of the other linebackers, I wouldn't be there right now." (HA)
About how he is starting to pick up the techniques of the position, Nauahi said:
"This was the tip of the iceberg. This was only the first practice. I hope to get better." (HA)
About their status right now, Mac said:
"Right now we're developing our team personality. But I like the work ethic." (HA)
HSB Note: "With combined college coaching experience of nearly 60 years, the well-traveled Tormey (special teams coordinator) and Shaw (offensive line) will be counted on to give two of the Warriors' most flawed facets during the 2008 season a fresh start. Tormey was given the task of overhauling a special teams unit that finished last in the country in punt return yardage (2 yards average) and had six kicks blocked. He's also charged with assisting Rich Miano with the secondary by leading the safeties."
Happy what he saw from their DBs yesterday, Tormey said:
"We have a lot of kids who are really into what we're trying to teach. We'll see how well we can maintain that enthusiasm over the next 14 practices." (HSB)
About how Coach Shaw will not make excuses if their OL struggles, Mac said:
"You'll never hear an excuse out of him." (HSB)
About how he judges players, Shaw (a former center) said:
"When you've been doing it for as long as I've been doing it, my favorite saying is, 'Never rate potential over performance.' So, you might have a world of ability, but it's still about what you do out here between the stripes — that ends up being whether you play or not. I just live by the golden rule, which is, 'Do your best and don't let anything else affect you.' " (HSB)
HSB Note: "Tormey has appeared four times at Aloha Stadium — once as a player and three times as a coach — and chuckled about his 0-4 record here. He spoke to his new players about the mystique of playing at Hawaii, and told them they should be proud. Proud, but also ready to do their part when called upon."
About his message to the Warriors, Tormey said:
"Accountability is one word that we always use. In order to be accountable to your teammates, you have to be personally responsible, both on and off the field. That's something we're trying to stress with these guys. Understand the importance of doing your job, making your play for the Warriors when you get your opportunity." (HSB)
About giving Dog Chapman a tip on his neighbor (who was a feared fugitive), Lane said:
"He told me I was helping the kid in the long run. He said it would be the best thing for him in the long run." (HSB)
Still upset by the Hawaii Bowl loss, Brashton Satele said:
"We're still kind of mad about it. I don't like being embarrassed." (HSB)
"It's still fueling a lot of us. We're still kind of mad about it. That's what wakes me up every day." (HSB)
About how they were intense on their first spring practice, Rocky said:
"This was the hardest first day we've ever had, very intense." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Most of these seniors have never experienced a losing season, other than while redshirting in 2005. They don't want to start now, at the end."
About how the players need to buy into the coaches, Lane said:
"We've just got to work harder on the practice field and not just expect to win. We've got to buy into what the coaches tell us. Everybody at times gets into doing a little bit of their own thing. But I understand a lot more about how important it is to buy into the coaches." (HSB)
About how he was sad that practice was at 4pm instead of their normal 7am, Brashton said:
"I was kind of bummed it wasn't at 7 o'clock in the morning like usual." (HSB)
After their first day of practice, Ron Lee said:
"We still have a ways to go, but for the first day it was good." (HSB)
About how it is exciting to start Spring Practice, Greg Alexander said:
"It's definitely exciting to get back out here and play some real football again. I was excited for it. It's a long layover, a long time to think about some games we let slip away. There were a couple games that sit with you. You still think about those now and then so we have to fix our mistakes." (HSB)
About the importance of these spring practices, Mac said:
"This is a sense-of-urgency spring. This isn't the typical spring that you just go through. We have to identify players, and for the first day I think we made a step in the right direction. But we have to continue to get better." (HSB)
HSB Note: "McMackin said the Warriors' depth chart serves as a starting point, but "everything's wide open." Two positions with clear leaders are quarterback and center, where Alexander and John Estes return."
About the upcoming season after the OL set the NCAA record for sacks, John Estes said:
"It's redemption. Everyone knows what happened last year. Once we start going and doing good like I know we can, we'll get past that stuff, but we have to work hard from now." (HSB)
About how their offense is more experienced this spring as compared to last spring, Ron Lee said:
"We still have a ways to go, but for the first day it was good. Last spring we had a lot of different people. Now the guys we have are guys that played. We didn't have that last year. We're moving along a lot faster. I like the enthusiasm, the guys are a lot more confident." (HSB)
About working to making a few mechanical changes to his footwork and throwing motion while learning more about the offense, Alexander said:
"Now is the time where you have to get these things worked out, because once fall camp is here we're not going to have time to work on things like that. By then it has to be second nature and muscle memory." (HSB)
About taking over for Sol as their starting MLB, Brashton said:
"It's a lot of leadership and responsibility, but I'm up to it to take the challenge." (HSB)
Asked about being a leader on the team, Malcolm Lane said:
“Lots of people ask me about being a senior and being a leader now. I can’t make that claim, not yet. You don’t just come out and say, 'I’m a leader now,’ even if you’re a senior. I have to show I’m a leader by setting an example by doing the right things.” (HSB)
About how he understands the offense better now, Dustin Blount said:
"Now I know the offense. I’m looking at the right things, things are slowing down and I know where I want the ball to go." (HSB)
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Review continues of the Sugar Bowl travel expenses
HA Note: "Although some questions were initially raised about children who accompanied staff on the trip, Dan Mollway, executive director of the commission, said "everyone who went is a matter of potential review." "
HA Note: "Mollway said the commission's review has been slowed by more pressing cases and staff shortages."
About UH's cooperation in working with the commission before the 2008 Hawaii Bowl, Mollway said that:
"We haven't seen anything that has caused us to believe there are issues to deal with (from the Hawai'i Bowl)." (HA)
Crediting how JD dealt with their travel plans for avoiding controversy with their Hawaii Bowl spending, Mollway said:
"Given our dealings over the years he is, simply, more inclined to seek our advice than most, I would say." (HA)
JD said that UH limited its Hawaii Bowl party to:
"those who normally travel with the football team when it goes on the road and some extra trainers." (HA)
HA Note: "Mollway said the commission's review has been slowed by more pressing cases and staff shortages."
About UH's cooperation in working with the commission before the 2008 Hawaii Bowl, Mollway said that:
"We haven't seen anything that has caused us to believe there are issues to deal with (from the Hawai'i Bowl)." (HA)
Crediting how JD dealt with their travel plans for avoiding controversy with their Hawaii Bowl spending, Mollway said:
"Given our dealings over the years he is, simply, more inclined to seek our advice than most, I would say." (HA)
JD said that UH limited its Hawaii Bowl party to:
"those who normally travel with the football team when it goes on the road and some extra trainers." (HA)
Monday, March 30, 2009
Ron Lee talks about how this spring differs from last year
About how they have a lot fewer holes to fill on offense this spring as compared to last year, Ron Lee said:
"It's so different this spring. The goals are a little different." (HSB)
About the competition for starting jobs this spring, Ron Lee said:
"There's still a lot of work to be done as far as getting better. But the guys are here now, so we can use the spring perfecting what we do. The guys worked really hard getting ready for spring. I think they really know there's going to be some big competition." (HSB)
About trying Inoke at RB and slotback this spring, Ron Lee said:
"We know what he can do as a QB. We want to see what he can do as a running back." (HSB)
About the importance of this spring for LWJ, Ron Lee said:
"We really need for him to step up - he's so explosive. This spring is going to be very big for him." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Pilares and senior Jon Medeiros are listed as the top slotbacks going into the spring, but the coaches will also "look at the Ryan Henrys and Dustin Blounts and see how fast they can come along," Lee said."
"It's so different this spring. The goals are a little different." (HSB)
About the competition for starting jobs this spring, Ron Lee said:
"There's still a lot of work to be done as far as getting better. But the guys are here now, so we can use the spring perfecting what we do. The guys worked really hard getting ready for spring. I think they really know there's going to be some big competition." (HSB)
About trying Inoke at RB and slotback this spring, Ron Lee said:
"We know what he can do as a QB. We want to see what he can do as a running back." (HSB)
About the importance of this spring for LWJ, Ron Lee said:
"We really need for him to step up - he's so explosive. This spring is going to be very big for him." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Pilares and senior Jon Medeiros are listed as the top slotbacks going into the spring, but the coaches will also "look at the Ryan Henrys and Dustin Blounts and see how fast they can come along," Lee said."
Billy Ray Stutzmann finished high school early, gets to go to UH spring training
HSB Note: "Stutzmann had the credits to finish high school last semester. He weighed getting a head start on college football against giving up his senior year of track (he's one of the state's top sprinters). Football won. And his grades (3.4 cumulative average) indicated he was ready for the next level of academic challenges."
About entering college earaly, Billy Ray said:
"I'd probably be taking some advanced placement anyway, and right now it kind of feels natural to be in college. In football, the guys really took me in and it's not a big transition." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Stutzmann also figures to benefit from regular weightlifting sessions he might not have been doing if running track at Saint Louis. He's added 12 pounds of muscle to his 6-foot-1 frame and figures to check in at around 170 today."
About how going through the spring with UH instead of being in high school will help him during his football career, Billy Ray said:
"I just think it will really help me down the line, being here, maybe in a few months. It's always been my goal to get playing time as a freshman, but if the coaches want me to redshirt, I'm fine with that." (HSB)
About coaching his brother as UH's WR coach, just like he coached his brother when Billy Ray was a freshman on the Saint Louis JV, Craig Stutzmann said:
"We try not to have the relationship show in practice. He calls me 'Coach,' never Craig. We'll have to see how it is (today). I try to not let it happen, but sometimes you can get a little more frustrated with your brother or son. For some reason, you have a shorter fuse." (HSB)
About having his brother coach him and expect more out of him than others, Billy Ray said:
"The good thing is he'll be on me to do everything right. That's the negative thing, too. He's always going to be hard on me, I already can feel it. But I think he'll be fair." (HSB)
About how other teams tried to come in late and get him to break his early UH commitment, Billy Ray said:
"Washington came in late. That got in my mind a little bit. Oregon State, Washington State. Notre Dame contacted me a little, but it died out." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Billy Stutzmann passed on what for many people is the most fun six months of their life. Instead, he opted to get ahead of the academic game by a full semester, loaded up with six classes of core requirements. The weight-room investment is a solid one, too. In the coming weeks we'll see how ready he is on the football field."
About entering college earaly, Billy Ray said:
"I'd probably be taking some advanced placement anyway, and right now it kind of feels natural to be in college. In football, the guys really took me in and it's not a big transition." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Stutzmann also figures to benefit from regular weightlifting sessions he might not have been doing if running track at Saint Louis. He's added 12 pounds of muscle to his 6-foot-1 frame and figures to check in at around 170 today."
About how going through the spring with UH instead of being in high school will help him during his football career, Billy Ray said:
"I just think it will really help me down the line, being here, maybe in a few months. It's always been my goal to get playing time as a freshman, but if the coaches want me to redshirt, I'm fine with that." (HSB)
About coaching his brother as UH's WR coach, just like he coached his brother when Billy Ray was a freshman on the Saint Louis JV, Craig Stutzmann said:
"We try not to have the relationship show in practice. He calls me 'Coach,' never Craig. We'll have to see how it is (today). I try to not let it happen, but sometimes you can get a little more frustrated with your brother or son. For some reason, you have a shorter fuse." (HSB)
About having his brother coach him and expect more out of him than others, Billy Ray said:
"The good thing is he'll be on me to do everything right. That's the negative thing, too. He's always going to be hard on me, I already can feel it. But I think he'll be fair." (HSB)
About how other teams tried to come in late and get him to break his early UH commitment, Billy Ray said:
"Washington came in late. That got in my mind a little bit. Oregon State, Washington State. Notre Dame contacted me a little, but it died out." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Billy Stutzmann passed on what for many people is the most fun six months of their life. Instead, he opted to get ahead of the academic game by a full semester, loaded up with six classes of core requirements. The weight-room investment is a solid one, too. In the coming weeks we'll see how ready he is on the football field."
Mac likes how his coaching staff fits together
Happy with his coaching staff, Mac said:
"I like the fit of our coaching staff, and I really like their work ethic. They've really worked hard to be able to teach these players, because we're all teachers." (HSB)
"I like the fit of our coaching staff, and I really like their work ethic. They've really worked hard to be able to teach these players, because we're all teachers." (HSB)
A lot of starting positions are up for grabs this spring
Mac said that their depth chart entering spring training is:
"a starting point." (HA)
About all the starting positions available to be won this spiring, Mac said that:
"nine-tenths of the (starting) jobs are open. This is an important spring. There are a lot of jobs that are up for grabs this spring." (HA)
About having Alexander and Rausch top the depth chart at QB, Mac said:
"That's the starting point. Greg is going to get the majority of the reps this spring." (HA)
Mac said that some positions:
"like John Estes at center and Greg Alexander at quarterback are based on what they did last season. I assume that everyone (listed as a starter) will work hard and maintain their position. But if they don't prepare themselves, we'd play the best player at that point in time. We're committed to playing our best players." (HA)
About how they will post a depth chart after spring training is over, Mac said:
"New starting points." (HA)
About how many of their recruits don't arrive until the summer, Mac said:
"We'll give some (of the newcomers) some shots. We have to be ready for business. It's not P.E. football. It's a business. We want to have fun, but we want to get ready to play. We want to start the season strong." (HA)
About how he'll have to cut players after spring training (114 players are on the spring roster, 105 players can go to training camp and 25 newcomers join this summer), Mac said:
"I hate to cut anybody. That's the worst part of the game. But we can only go into camp with 105." (HA)
HA Note: "But sometimes there's a happy ending. Last spring, defensive tackle Quentin Beaver impressed coaches with his strength. But at 365 pounds, he was too heavy to play the point in the 4-3 alignment. Beaver was cut after spring practice. He subsequently lost 60 pounds, and in January, he participated in the walk-on tryout. He earned a berth on the spring roster."
About Quentin Beaver being back on the team, Mac said:
"We like 300-pound-plus guys, but they have to be able to run. Now he can run." (HA)
"a starting point." (HA)
About all the starting positions available to be won this spiring, Mac said that:
"nine-tenths of the (starting) jobs are open. This is an important spring. There are a lot of jobs that are up for grabs this spring." (HA)
About having Alexander and Rausch top the depth chart at QB, Mac said:
"That's the starting point. Greg is going to get the majority of the reps this spring." (HA)
Mac said that some positions:
"like John Estes at center and Greg Alexander at quarterback are based on what they did last season. I assume that everyone (listed as a starter) will work hard and maintain their position. But if they don't prepare themselves, we'd play the best player at that point in time. We're committed to playing our best players." (HA)
About how they will post a depth chart after spring training is over, Mac said:
"New starting points." (HA)
About how many of their recruits don't arrive until the summer, Mac said:
"We'll give some (of the newcomers) some shots. We have to be ready for business. It's not P.E. football. It's a business. We want to have fun, but we want to get ready to play. We want to start the season strong." (HA)
About how he'll have to cut players after spring training (114 players are on the spring roster, 105 players can go to training camp and 25 newcomers join this summer), Mac said:
"I hate to cut anybody. That's the worst part of the game. But we can only go into camp with 105." (HA)
HA Note: "But sometimes there's a happy ending. Last spring, defensive tackle Quentin Beaver impressed coaches with his strength. But at 365 pounds, he was too heavy to play the point in the 4-3 alignment. Beaver was cut after spring practice. He subsequently lost 60 pounds, and in January, he participated in the walk-on tryout. He earned a berth on the spring roster."
About Quentin Beaver being back on the team, Mac said:
"We like 300-pound-plus guys, but they have to be able to run. Now he can run." (HA)
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Interview with Mac from the Star-Bulletin
http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/sportsnews/20090329_mcmackin_likes_his_warriors_work_ethic.html
Asked if he's in the rhythm he wants to be in now, compared to last year, Mac said:
"It's been fun. It's slower this time." (HSB)
Happy with the work ethic of their team, Mac said:
"Every team has its personality. I thought last year's team overcame adversity. This year's team is still making it's personality. One thing I really like about this team is the work ethic. They're working their tails off, and I think it's because we don't have a bunch of stars and everybody's competing and competition make guys work harder. All 112 or 113 guys and they're all working hard. I give credit to the strength guys, Tommy (Heffernan) and Mel (DeLaura), but the players have an attitude about them.
The thing I like is now we're going into spring so we've got to keep the intensity and we have to teach.
All the coaches, they've really worked hard on presenting and teaching and it's important we do a good job of coaching it and improve on what we did last year.
Now we can actually work with them and watch them on film and everybody feels like they have a shot, so they're really going hard.
I think these guys really have a great work ethic. That's what they've shown me to this point. Now we have to get into the X's and O's and all that stuff." (HSB)
Asked if it is a smoother transition to find new starters on D as compared to how they had to replace their starters on O last year, Mac said:
"The thing about defense is you run a package, but what I like about Hawaii is the guys we have playing defense are aggressive. So we get 11 guys aggressive to the ball, we just have to teach them to run to the football, tackle, and it is easier than last year. Offensively we were trying to run a system and nobody knows it yet. It's way more difficult.
I feel very comfortable getting our defense together. I think we have a great defensive staff. It's just a matter of teaching and finding the guys this spring and then we have guys who are going to join us (in the summer)."
Asked how concerned he is about the secondary after losing their top 4 CBs and a bunch of safeties, Mac said:
"We lost nine DBs and all the starters, and none of these guys really have game experience. Richard Torres is really the only one who has game experience and he was our backup nickel.
The good thing is we brought in some guys who we think are talented players. They have to learn our system, but they're going to see the pass every day. We're going to rep and teach and they're going to get a lot of reps covering, and we have some good young guys who are coming up. I'm confident in the coaching, we've got Rich Miano and Chris Tormey. It's a matter of teaching schemes, and athletically we have some good guys.
It's game experience. In the secondary, you're playing a coverage and if somebody busts, it's gone. So that's not as easy as the front seven. It's something we're going to have to teach well." (HSB)
Asked how important it is for JC transfers like Lametrius Davis and Melvin Hopkins to enter school for the Spring semester, Mac said:
"Oh yeah, because they can work in the spring. We redshirted all of our JC players last year, except for Jovonte (Taylor). So all these receivers and DBs, we were sort of saving them. (Cornerback) Jeramy Bryant is outstanding. He got hurt (last year), but I think he's going to be really good." (HSB)
Asked if he feels he can do things differently because of his team's work ethic, Mac said:
"I've coached the same way for a long time and we have things like Super Games. I want them to work hard and have some fun, too. This group is just really together. I wouldn't say we have a bunch of leaders. They just group together. It's a fun thing to see.
I've got the same philosophy. You have to care about your players and coaches and you have to teach and get better.
There are some things I don't dwell on from last year because I got over it. This is a whole brand new team. We're going to improve on anything that we learned from last season, but this is this year's team." (HSB)
Asked if there are players he's looking at to take the leadership role or if that is something he's going to see develop over the spring, Mac said:
"There's guys like Brashton Satele, who's played a lot of ball for us. R.J. (Kiesel-Kauhane) started for us. Obviously, John Estes was a captain for us last year. Kealoha (Pilares). There's leadership, but it's not like we have 35 seniors and everybody's trying to be a leader. A lot of guys like Rocky Savaiigaea, Blaze (Soares), before they can lead they have to play between the lines, but they're great leaders. Greg Alexander is a guy who's done some things, but he's not a yell and screamer.
I just like the way it's all fitting together. We're sort of letting it happen naturally. We're not trying to make any leaders, but they're working it out together." (HSB)
Asked about how it seems he feels he has the pieces of the puzzle, Mac said:
"If we keep going like this (climbing) we can reach all of our goals, but it's going to take a lot of work and we have to get a lot better. We haven't done anything yet. The only thing we've done to this stage is we've really gone through a great pre-spring workout, now we have to have a great spring.
This spring is a crucial spring. We have to come together and get things taught and improve." (HSB)
Asked if they are going to work more under center, Mac said:
"We're not going to work that much under center.
We're going to get our quarterbacks reps teaching the system. Greg's going to get four reps, Brent (Rausch) is going to get two and Shane Austin's going to get two. The other guys are going to have to take reps in individuals or scrimmages, but we've got to get those three guys ready and we're going to give Greg most of the reps." (HSB)
Asked if the spring is even more critical for the OL with a new OL coach, Mac said:
"I love the confidence of Gordy Shaw. We just met on our entire personnel today and he sees so much potential. He's a positive guy and he sees so much potential with our offensive line.
He is really excited about coaching these guys. He's an outstanding coach and he likes the guys we have. You'll never hear an excuse out of him. We've worked hard at getting our protections and everything together with our schemes. It's just a matter of teaching, and he's a great teacher." (HSB)
About trying to find a place for Inoke to play, Mac said:
"This spring we're going to play him at running back and take a look at that. The key obviously is if he can block. He can scramble -- we have to see how he runs as a running back and then we'll look at him at slot. We want him comfortable and if he fits in there we know he can help us on special teams.
The thing about Inoke is he has so much versatility. So we're going to take a look at that and if he feels comfortable and we feel he can contribute, then great. If not, we're going to move him back to quarterback and let him fight it out for the backup role.
We're not going to call it the "wildcat," but he's a natural. Now you're in short yardage ... now you've got option, and the thing we have those people don't is he can throw the ball, too. So you're not changing your offense, it's just sort of a short-yardage changeup. ... We're going to add that and he can do that as a running back or even as a receiver. He's got so many tools." (HSB)
Asked if he would move Inoke to safety, Mac said:
"No, we're going to use him on offense. We feel pretty good at safety. We've got Spencer Smith, we could have played him last year. Hits and runs and was our best special teams player last year. Kenny Estes, and we've moved Lametrius. We're going to look at both safety and corner because he's a physical guy who can run. He's a big corner, but he's such a great athlete he can play free safety, too." (HSB)
Asked about Vaughn Meatoga, Mac said:
"Vaughn's a stud. Vaughn's our best defensive lineman right now. He was good last year. He never comes out of his stance; he can play all day long at the same pad level. He is going to be a big-time player. Weight over 300 pounds, doesn't look it, great kid. He's tough and does everything." (HSB)
Asked if they would have no big scheme changes on offense or defense, Mac said:
"Scheme-wise the only thing is I thought special teams needed a complete overhaul from last year. I feel we have a great special teams coach. I think he's a great teacher. We've taken schemes from the best programs in the country. It's not just taking schemes, it's sharing ideas, because Chris coached special teams for a long time as a head coach. He's got his own philosophies, I've got a lot of confidence in him." (HSB)
Asked if he's in the rhythm he wants to be in now, compared to last year, Mac said:
"It's been fun. It's slower this time." (HSB)
Happy with the work ethic of their team, Mac said:
"Every team has its personality. I thought last year's team overcame adversity. This year's team is still making it's personality. One thing I really like about this team is the work ethic. They're working their tails off, and I think it's because we don't have a bunch of stars and everybody's competing and competition make guys work harder. All 112 or 113 guys and they're all working hard. I give credit to the strength guys, Tommy (Heffernan) and Mel (DeLaura), but the players have an attitude about them.
The thing I like is now we're going into spring so we've got to keep the intensity and we have to teach.
All the coaches, they've really worked hard on presenting and teaching and it's important we do a good job of coaching it and improve on what we did last year.
Now we can actually work with them and watch them on film and everybody feels like they have a shot, so they're really going hard.
I think these guys really have a great work ethic. That's what they've shown me to this point. Now we have to get into the X's and O's and all that stuff." (HSB)
Asked if it is a smoother transition to find new starters on D as compared to how they had to replace their starters on O last year, Mac said:
"The thing about defense is you run a package, but what I like about Hawaii is the guys we have playing defense are aggressive. So we get 11 guys aggressive to the ball, we just have to teach them to run to the football, tackle, and it is easier than last year. Offensively we were trying to run a system and nobody knows it yet. It's way more difficult.
I feel very comfortable getting our defense together. I think we have a great defensive staff. It's just a matter of teaching and finding the guys this spring and then we have guys who are going to join us (in the summer)."
Asked how concerned he is about the secondary after losing their top 4 CBs and a bunch of safeties, Mac said:
"We lost nine DBs and all the starters, and none of these guys really have game experience. Richard Torres is really the only one who has game experience and he was our backup nickel.
The good thing is we brought in some guys who we think are talented players. They have to learn our system, but they're going to see the pass every day. We're going to rep and teach and they're going to get a lot of reps covering, and we have some good young guys who are coming up. I'm confident in the coaching, we've got Rich Miano and Chris Tormey. It's a matter of teaching schemes, and athletically we have some good guys.
It's game experience. In the secondary, you're playing a coverage and if somebody busts, it's gone. So that's not as easy as the front seven. It's something we're going to have to teach well." (HSB)
Asked how important it is for JC transfers like Lametrius Davis and Melvin Hopkins to enter school for the Spring semester, Mac said:
"Oh yeah, because they can work in the spring. We redshirted all of our JC players last year, except for Jovonte (Taylor). So all these receivers and DBs, we were sort of saving them. (Cornerback) Jeramy Bryant is outstanding. He got hurt (last year), but I think he's going to be really good." (HSB)
Asked if he feels he can do things differently because of his team's work ethic, Mac said:
"I've coached the same way for a long time and we have things like Super Games. I want them to work hard and have some fun, too. This group is just really together. I wouldn't say we have a bunch of leaders. They just group together. It's a fun thing to see.
I've got the same philosophy. You have to care about your players and coaches and you have to teach and get better.
There are some things I don't dwell on from last year because I got over it. This is a whole brand new team. We're going to improve on anything that we learned from last season, but this is this year's team." (HSB)
Asked if there are players he's looking at to take the leadership role or if that is something he's going to see develop over the spring, Mac said:
"There's guys like Brashton Satele, who's played a lot of ball for us. R.J. (Kiesel-Kauhane) started for us. Obviously, John Estes was a captain for us last year. Kealoha (Pilares). There's leadership, but it's not like we have 35 seniors and everybody's trying to be a leader. A lot of guys like Rocky Savaiigaea, Blaze (Soares), before they can lead they have to play between the lines, but they're great leaders. Greg Alexander is a guy who's done some things, but he's not a yell and screamer.
I just like the way it's all fitting together. We're sort of letting it happen naturally. We're not trying to make any leaders, but they're working it out together." (HSB)
Asked about how it seems he feels he has the pieces of the puzzle, Mac said:
"If we keep going like this (climbing) we can reach all of our goals, but it's going to take a lot of work and we have to get a lot better. We haven't done anything yet. The only thing we've done to this stage is we've really gone through a great pre-spring workout, now we have to have a great spring.
This spring is a crucial spring. We have to come together and get things taught and improve." (HSB)
Asked if they are going to work more under center, Mac said:
"We're not going to work that much under center.
We're going to get our quarterbacks reps teaching the system. Greg's going to get four reps, Brent (Rausch) is going to get two and Shane Austin's going to get two. The other guys are going to have to take reps in individuals or scrimmages, but we've got to get those three guys ready and we're going to give Greg most of the reps." (HSB)
Asked if the spring is even more critical for the OL with a new OL coach, Mac said:
"I love the confidence of Gordy Shaw. We just met on our entire personnel today and he sees so much potential. He's a positive guy and he sees so much potential with our offensive line.
He is really excited about coaching these guys. He's an outstanding coach and he likes the guys we have. You'll never hear an excuse out of him. We've worked hard at getting our protections and everything together with our schemes. It's just a matter of teaching, and he's a great teacher." (HSB)
About trying to find a place for Inoke to play, Mac said:
"This spring we're going to play him at running back and take a look at that. The key obviously is if he can block. He can scramble -- we have to see how he runs as a running back and then we'll look at him at slot. We want him comfortable and if he fits in there we know he can help us on special teams.
The thing about Inoke is he has so much versatility. So we're going to take a look at that and if he feels comfortable and we feel he can contribute, then great. If not, we're going to move him back to quarterback and let him fight it out for the backup role.
We're not going to call it the "wildcat," but he's a natural. Now you're in short yardage ... now you've got option, and the thing we have those people don't is he can throw the ball, too. So you're not changing your offense, it's just sort of a short-yardage changeup. ... We're going to add that and he can do that as a running back or even as a receiver. He's got so many tools." (HSB)
Asked if he would move Inoke to safety, Mac said:
"No, we're going to use him on offense. We feel pretty good at safety. We've got Spencer Smith, we could have played him last year. Hits and runs and was our best special teams player last year. Kenny Estes, and we've moved Lametrius. We're going to look at both safety and corner because he's a physical guy who can run. He's a big corner, but he's such a great athlete he can play free safety, too." (HSB)
Asked about Vaughn Meatoga, Mac said:
"Vaughn's a stud. Vaughn's our best defensive lineman right now. He was good last year. He never comes out of his stance; he can play all day long at the same pad level. He is going to be a big-time player. Weight over 300 pounds, doesn't look it, great kid. He's tough and does everything." (HSB)
Asked if they would have no big scheme changes on offense or defense, Mac said:
"Scheme-wise the only thing is I thought special teams needed a complete overhaul from last year. I feel we have a great special teams coach. I think he's a great teacher. We've taken schemes from the best programs in the country. It's not just taking schemes, it's sharing ideas, because Chris coached special teams for a long time as a head coach. He's got his own philosophies, I've got a lot of confidence in him." (HSB)
Quotes from the Warriors spring preview from the Advertiser
http://sports.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090329/SPORTS0201/903290366/1312&template=UHSports
About how they want to attack this season, Mac said:
"We want to attack in all three phases." (HA)
About how they will attack on offense with their run-and-shoot, Mac said:
"We're going to run the pure run-and-shoot. We're going to let it fly and try to have fun." (HA)
About how Alexander had trouble understanding the offense in his first year, Rolo said:
"His head was swimming. (HA)
HAA Note: "A tell-tale sign was not in Alexander's interceptions or sacks, but the number of deflected passes. Being indecisive led to Alexander trying to hurry, which led to side-armed throws. In reviewing videos of last year's games, Alexander noted that his worst plays corresponded with low deliveries. Alexander appears to be more confident. And Alexander, who once spoke Mumble as a second language, has developed into a leader, often taking charge of unsupervised offseason workouts."
About how Rausch improved after learning that he didn't need to throw every pass at full speed, Rolo said:
"Four or five throws (a game) are hard; the rest are control throws." (HA)
HA Note: "On the left side, Salas has worked out with the slotbacks. He won't move there, but there are some plays in which Salas will motion into the slot, giving Alexander a taller target. The plan is for the inside receivers to draw defenses away from the wideouts. Last year, Lane caught only 46.7 percent of the passes in which he was the intended receiver."
About how he touched the ceiling when he was asked to jump as high as he could in the UH weight room, Rodney Bradley said:
"I've always been able to jump." (HA)
HA says about Bradley: "whose reach is 8 feet 1. He can touch nearly 11 feet off a vertical jump. With his speed (4.4 seconds) and height (6-1), Bradley is expected to stretch coverages. He'll start off at left wideout, but he is capable of playing both sides."
HA Note: "Kia lost weight after suffering from severe flu-like ailments following the Sheraton Hawai'i Bowl. He weighed 274 last week; he wants to gain at least another 10 pounds by the end of spring training. Hisatake, whose high school did not have a football team, is set to open at left guard. He said it took him most of last season to adjust to the switch from tackle. The previous year, he was on the defensive line. Keep an eye on: Leonard, a junior-college transfer who probably is the most agile of the tackles."
About how they require their DTs to be mobile, Cal Lee said:
"We don't want just space-eaters." (HA)
Ready to fill their leadership void with Adam Leonard and Sol Elimimian graduating, Brashton Satele said:
"Somebody has to step up. Why not me?" (HA)
About how he lifts every day, Brashton said:
"I dedicated myself to getting stronger." (HA)
About how his workouts included power cleans this offseason, Brashton said:
"I didn't like it before, but I like it now." (HA)
Paredes explained that RJ earned the nickname "Neanderthal" because:
"he's another breed." (HA)
HA Note: "Kiesel-Kauhane, who weighs 221, is capable of benching 450 pounds. He benched 225 pounds 35 times, and had a vertical jump of 38 inches."
About their CBs, Rich Miano said:
"Overall, the group has no stars, but it's a focused, concentrated group. I'm really impressed with their work and determination." (HA)
About how they want to attack this season, Mac said:
"We want to attack in all three phases." (HA)
About how they will attack on offense with their run-and-shoot, Mac said:
"We're going to run the pure run-and-shoot. We're going to let it fly and try to have fun." (HA)
About how Alexander had trouble understanding the offense in his first year, Rolo said:
"His head was swimming. (HA)
HAA Note: "A tell-tale sign was not in Alexander's interceptions or sacks, but the number of deflected passes. Being indecisive led to Alexander trying to hurry, which led to side-armed throws. In reviewing videos of last year's games, Alexander noted that his worst plays corresponded with low deliveries. Alexander appears to be more confident. And Alexander, who once spoke Mumble as a second language, has developed into a leader, often taking charge of unsupervised offseason workouts."
About how Rausch improved after learning that he didn't need to throw every pass at full speed, Rolo said:
"Four or five throws (a game) are hard; the rest are control throws." (HA)
HA Note: "On the left side, Salas has worked out with the slotbacks. He won't move there, but there are some plays in which Salas will motion into the slot, giving Alexander a taller target. The plan is for the inside receivers to draw defenses away from the wideouts. Last year, Lane caught only 46.7 percent of the passes in which he was the intended receiver."
About how he touched the ceiling when he was asked to jump as high as he could in the UH weight room, Rodney Bradley said:
"I've always been able to jump." (HA)
HA says about Bradley: "whose reach is 8 feet 1. He can touch nearly 11 feet off a vertical jump. With his speed (4.4 seconds) and height (6-1), Bradley is expected to stretch coverages. He'll start off at left wideout, but he is capable of playing both sides."
HA Note: "Kia lost weight after suffering from severe flu-like ailments following the Sheraton Hawai'i Bowl. He weighed 274 last week; he wants to gain at least another 10 pounds by the end of spring training. Hisatake, whose high school did not have a football team, is set to open at left guard. He said it took him most of last season to adjust to the switch from tackle. The previous year, he was on the defensive line. Keep an eye on: Leonard, a junior-college transfer who probably is the most agile of the tackles."
About how they require their DTs to be mobile, Cal Lee said:
"We don't want just space-eaters." (HA)
Ready to fill their leadership void with Adam Leonard and Sol Elimimian graduating, Brashton Satele said:
"Somebody has to step up. Why not me?" (HA)
About how he lifts every day, Brashton said:
"I dedicated myself to getting stronger." (HA)
About how his workouts included power cleans this offseason, Brashton said:
"I didn't like it before, but I like it now." (HA)
Paredes explained that RJ earned the nickname "Neanderthal" because:
"he's another breed." (HA)
HA Note: "Kiesel-Kauhane, who weighs 221, is capable of benching 450 pounds. He benched 225 pounds 35 times, and had a vertical jump of 38 inches."
About their CBs, Rich Miano said:
"Overall, the group has no stars, but it's a focused, concentrated group. I'm really impressed with their work and determination." (HA)
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Bess loves hearing from those that doubt Miami's WR corps
SFSS = South Florida Sun-Sentinel
About those who criticize Miami's WRs, Bess said:
"Most players will get mad or frustrated, but I love it, because it's always keeping me humble. Knowing that there's always someone out there to knock you down. In this league, you can never be satisfied. There is always room for improvement." (SFSS)
About how he wants to improve each part of his game, Bess said:
"There were a couple of times last year that I dropped the ball. There were a couple of times that I misread a coverage, and ran the wrong route." (SFSS)
About how he has "a lot" more confidence going into this season as compared to his rookie year, Bess said:
"For me to get the hands-on experience I got so early, now that I can go out there just playing, rather than thinking, and having my head cut off. Whenever you are in a situation where you have to prove yourself, the best comes out of you. At the end of the day, when the lights come on, everything will show." (SFSS)
About those who criticize Miami's WRs, Bess said:
"Most players will get mad or frustrated, but I love it, because it's always keeping me humble. Knowing that there's always someone out there to knock you down. In this league, you can never be satisfied. There is always room for improvement." (SFSS)
About how he wants to improve each part of his game, Bess said:
"There were a couple of times last year that I dropped the ball. There were a couple of times that I misread a coverage, and ran the wrong route." (SFSS)
About how he has "a lot" more confidence going into this season as compared to his rookie year, Bess said:
"For me to get the hands-on experience I got so early, now that I can go out there just playing, rather than thinking, and having my head cut off. Whenever you are in a situation where you have to prove yourself, the best comes out of you. At the end of the day, when the lights come on, everything will show." (SFSS)
Friday, March 27, 2009
Bryce Kalau'oka'a'ea moving back to QB
About ending his experiment at RB and moving back to QB, Bryce saidL
"That's where my calling is. That's where I belong." (HA)
HA Note: "He missed all of last season after suffering a torn ACL. He said he is healthy now. He joins a crowded field. The top of the depth chart goes like this: Greg Alexander, Brent Rausch and Shane Austin. Those three will get the majority of the reps in team drills. Limited work will go to Kalau‘oka‘a‘ea, Steele Jantz and Bryant Moniz. In fall training, three freshmen join the competition."
About the competition at QB and the limited reps he will get, Bryce said:
"I don't mind. It's actually going to push me into doing my best, being up against guys who also are hungry for that position." (HA)
"That's where my calling is. That's where I belong." (HA)
HA Note: "He missed all of last season after suffering a torn ACL. He said he is healthy now. He joins a crowded field. The top of the depth chart goes like this: Greg Alexander, Brent Rausch and Shane Austin. Those three will get the majority of the reps in team drills. Limited work will go to Kalau‘oka‘a‘ea, Steele Jantz and Bryant Moniz. In fall training, three freshmen join the competition."
About the competition at QB and the limited reps he will get, Bryce said:
"I don't mind. It's actually going to push me into doing my best, being up against guys who also are hungry for that position." (HA)
WAC schedule should be released next week
HA Note: "Whether the University of Hawai'i's football game at San Jose State is moved to a Friday to accommodate ESPN is one of the remaining pieces of the puzzle to be resolved before the Western Athletic Conference announces its 2009 schedule."
HA Note: "The San Jose State game — probably in either October or November — is said to be one of six TV possibilities for the Warriors still under consideration. "That's one of the games still being discussed," said someone with knowledge of the situation but who has declined to be identified because negotiations are on-going."
About games on ESPN and ESPN2, WAC associate commimssioner Jeff Hurd said that he belives UH will:
"likely get two to four" (HA)
HA Note: "There are additional possibilities on ESPNU. The WAC's contract with ESPN assures a minimum of 10 conference games spread over ESPN and ESPN2 plus additional games on ESPNU."
Hoping that the WAC schedule is done next week, WAC commisionser Karl Benson said:
"We hope to have this done next week. There are a few details remaining to be worked out." (HA)
HA Note: "The San Jose State game — probably in either October or November — is said to be one of six TV possibilities for the Warriors still under consideration. "That's one of the games still being discussed," said someone with knowledge of the situation but who has declined to be identified because negotiations are on-going."
About games on ESPN and ESPN2, WAC associate commimssioner Jeff Hurd said that he belives UH will:
"likely get two to four" (HA)
HA Note: "There are additional possibilities on ESPNU. The WAC's contract with ESPN assures a minimum of 10 conference games spread over ESPN and ESPN2 plus additional games on ESPNU."
Hoping that the WAC schedule is done next week, WAC commisionser Karl Benson said:
"We hope to have this done next week. There are a few details remaining to be worked out." (HA)
UH having its first Junior Day and 30 Japanese coaches are attending Mac's Clinic
About having about 30 coaches from Japan attend his Coaches Clinic, Mac said:
"We're trying to build a bridge so Hawaii is Japan's team. There's a lot of good will on both sides." (HSB)
HSB Note: "UH is hosting its first "Junior Day" in conjunction with the final day of practice. High school coaches were asked to nominate their top prospects to attend the event on campus, which counts as a recruiting visit. McMackin expects to draw between 150 and 200 players and their parents."
About having their first Junior Day, Mac said:
"On the mainland they do this; we've just never done this here. We're trying to stay on the leading edge of recruiting. Recruiting is such a year-round, full-time deal. We want to get out of losing nine guys (on offense) last year and nine guys (on defense) this year. We're working really hard to recruit year-round and get the right guys and do it the right way." (HSB)
"We're trying to build a bridge so Hawaii is Japan's team. There's a lot of good will on both sides." (HSB)
HSB Note: "UH is hosting its first "Junior Day" in conjunction with the final day of practice. High school coaches were asked to nominate their top prospects to attend the event on campus, which counts as a recruiting visit. McMackin expects to draw between 150 and 200 players and their parents."
About having their first Junior Day, Mac said:
"On the mainland they do this; we've just never done this here. We're trying to stay on the leading edge of recruiting. Recruiting is such a year-round, full-time deal. We want to get out of losing nine guys (on offense) last year and nine guys (on defense) this year. We're working really hard to recruit year-round and get the right guys and do it the right way." (HSB)
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Mac inspiring Hawaii's Middle School Students
HA Note: "The top students from Hawai'i's public middle schools have a chance to see their names in bright lights this fall. University of Hawai'i football coach Greg McMackin is planning to create a program that will honor the academic accomplishments of sixth-, seventh- and eighth-graders. He is seeking to create an advisory board of teachers, counselors and administrators. Based on the nominations from school counselors, the board will select the "Coach McMackin Academic All-Stars." Each All-Star will receive a T-shirt."
About inviting each Academic All-Star and their parents and teachers to a UH football game, Mac said:
"We'll introduce them at halftime, put their names up on the JumboTron and give them the recognition they deserve." (HA)A
About raising money through his foundation (which will cover the expenses for the Middle School program) with donations from companies that do not usually deal with UH, Mac said:
"We're not going to take away any money that would go to the school or the athletic department." (HA)
About how the program is not limited to football players or student-athletes, Mac said:
"It's open to everyone." (HA)
HA Note: "McMackin said the concept originated while he was recruiting football players. He found that many prospects did not take the necessary courses to gain admittance to a four-year college."
About the importance of students being prepared for high school, Mac said:
"So many times, a kid isn't going to be eligible because he didn't do very well during his ninth-grade year." (HA)
HA Note: "McMackin said he wanted to create a program to inform middle-school students on the high-school courses they need to gain admission to a four-year college."
About targeting his program at public Middle Schools, Mac said:
"I think some of the best teaching is done in the public schools. But some students need to be motivated. When they hit the ninth grade, everything counts toward college." (HA)
About hosting an open house ata UH, with professors from different fields serving as speakers, Mac said:
"I'd like to get (the middle-school students) on campus, to show them the dream of college. So many kids have not seen the University of Hawai'i campus." (HA)
About visiting Middle Schools this year, especially because they probably cannot do an open house this year, Mac said:
"I want every kid to know what it takes to get into college. It doesn't have to be here. It can be at another college. But every kid needs to know that it's possible. I love Hawai'i and the people here. I want to do my best to help." (HA)
About inviting each Academic All-Star and their parents and teachers to a UH football game, Mac said:
"We'll introduce them at halftime, put their names up on the JumboTron and give them the recognition they deserve." (HA)A
About raising money through his foundation (which will cover the expenses for the Middle School program) with donations from companies that do not usually deal with UH, Mac said:
"We're not going to take away any money that would go to the school or the athletic department." (HA)
About how the program is not limited to football players or student-athletes, Mac said:
"It's open to everyone." (HA)
HA Note: "McMackin said the concept originated while he was recruiting football players. He found that many prospects did not take the necessary courses to gain admittance to a four-year college."
About the importance of students being prepared for high school, Mac said:
"So many times, a kid isn't going to be eligible because he didn't do very well during his ninth-grade year." (HA)
HA Note: "McMackin said he wanted to create a program to inform middle-school students on the high-school courses they need to gain admission to a four-year college."
About targeting his program at public Middle Schools, Mac said:
"I think some of the best teaching is done in the public schools. But some students need to be motivated. When they hit the ninth grade, everything counts toward college." (HA)
About hosting an open house ata UH, with professors from different fields serving as speakers, Mac said:
"I'd like to get (the middle-school students) on campus, to show them the dream of college. So many kids have not seen the University of Hawai'i campus." (HA)
About visiting Middle Schools this year, especially because they probably cannot do an open house this year, Mac said:
"I want every kid to know what it takes to get into college. It doesn't have to be here. It can be at another college. But every kid needs to know that it's possible. I love Hawai'i and the people here. I want to do my best to help." (HA)
Spring Practice Notes
About trying Inoke at slotback and possibly on special teams, Mac said:
"If he feels comfortable and we feel he can contribute, then great. If not, we're going to move him back to quarterback and let him fight it out for the backup role." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Funaki, who changed his number from 11 to 2, is listed as the backup to Leon Wright-Jackson at running back on the depth chart heading into spring practice."
HSB Note: "McMackin said the Warriors aren't planning significant changes in their schemes on offense or defense, and probably won't work the tight end package into practice until summer. The coaches are looking at using defensive ends Tua Mahaley and Bo Montgomery and backup quarterback Steele Jantz in that role, with them learning one of the slot receiver positions. It will give the coaches the option of putting them in as a receiver or using them as part of the protection scheme."
About using several players in one of the slot receiver positions, using them kind of like a TE, Mac said:
"Now you have this guy in the game who knows the routes. You see a blitz, now you bring him inside, so it gives you max protection. I'm thinking it's more of an if-we-need-it type of thing. ... It's a wrinkle, it's something we can go to if we need to." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Although his name doesn't appear on the Hawaii football's team's two-deeps heading into spring practice, Viliami Nauahi figures to get ample opportunity to prove himself once the Warriors hit the field on Monday. Blaze Soares and Paipai Falemalu are listed as the top candidates at one of the outside linebacker spots on the Warriors' depth chart released yesterday. But both are expected to sit out spring practice as they continue their recovery from injuries. UH head coach Greg McMackin said the absences will give Nauahi, a converted safety, a chance to see more reps at linebacker."
About how Blazae is still not over the lower leg injury he suffered early in Fall camp last year, Mac said:
"I've talked to the trainers and the doctors and he's not going to be ready for spring. They're hoping after spring he'll be ready to go, but we're not going to take a chance on hurting him." (HSB)
HSB Note: "McMackin said Falemalu, a freshman who had shoulder surgery last season, and defensive tackle Rocky Savaiigaea (coming off an arm injury) have been cleared, but their roles will likely be limited this spring."
HSB Note: "Greg McMackin says the kicking game will get a "complete overhaul." The guy who will do it is new assistant Chris Tormey. He spent some time in Gainesville last week with Florida's and Cincinnati's special teams coaches."
About spending time last week learning about Florida's and Cincinnati's special teams, Tormey said:
"It went really well. We covered all aspects and I met with their defensive coaches, too." (HSB)
"If he feels comfortable and we feel he can contribute, then great. If not, we're going to move him back to quarterback and let him fight it out for the backup role." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Funaki, who changed his number from 11 to 2, is listed as the backup to Leon Wright-Jackson at running back on the depth chart heading into spring practice."
HSB Note: "McMackin said the Warriors aren't planning significant changes in their schemes on offense or defense, and probably won't work the tight end package into practice until summer. The coaches are looking at using defensive ends Tua Mahaley and Bo Montgomery and backup quarterback Steele Jantz in that role, with them learning one of the slot receiver positions. It will give the coaches the option of putting them in as a receiver or using them as part of the protection scheme."
About using several players in one of the slot receiver positions, using them kind of like a TE, Mac said:
"Now you have this guy in the game who knows the routes. You see a blitz, now you bring him inside, so it gives you max protection. I'm thinking it's more of an if-we-need-it type of thing. ... It's a wrinkle, it's something we can go to if we need to." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Although his name doesn't appear on the Hawaii football's team's two-deeps heading into spring practice, Viliami Nauahi figures to get ample opportunity to prove himself once the Warriors hit the field on Monday. Blaze Soares and Paipai Falemalu are listed as the top candidates at one of the outside linebacker spots on the Warriors' depth chart released yesterday. But both are expected to sit out spring practice as they continue their recovery from injuries. UH head coach Greg McMackin said the absences will give Nauahi, a converted safety, a chance to see more reps at linebacker."
About how Blazae is still not over the lower leg injury he suffered early in Fall camp last year, Mac said:
"I've talked to the trainers and the doctors and he's not going to be ready for spring. They're hoping after spring he'll be ready to go, but we're not going to take a chance on hurting him." (HSB)
HSB Note: "McMackin said Falemalu, a freshman who had shoulder surgery last season, and defensive tackle Rocky Savaiigaea (coming off an arm injury) have been cleared, but their roles will likely be limited this spring."
HSB Note: "Greg McMackin says the kicking game will get a "complete overhaul." The guy who will do it is new assistant Chris Tormey. He spent some time in Gainesville last week with Florida's and Cincinnati's special teams coaches."
About spending time last week learning about Florida's and Cincinnati's special teams, Tormey said:
"It went really well. We covered all aspects and I met with their defensive coaches, too." (HSB)
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
George Daily-Lyles named Play It Smart National Student-Athlete of the Month
HA Note: "The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame (NFF) announced today that George Daily-Lyles, a senior linebacker from Long Beach Polytechnic High School in Long Beach, Calif., has been named the Play It Smart National Student-Athlete of the Month for February. A four-year member of Play It Smart at Long Beach Poly, Lyles has been an active participant in the program, inspiring his teammates to balance their powerhouse status on the field with equal success in the classroom and as leaders in the community."
Crediting his team for his award, Daily-Lyles said:
"[Play It Smart] has taught the whole Poly family, about family and that there are no individual successes without family success. So this honor is a team honor, not an individual honor." (HA)
About Play It Smart, Daily-Lyles said:
"Play It Smart is like a big brother standing over you and encouraging you to perform on and off-the-field. While my friends from other schools were fumbling around trying to keep up with the recruiting process, I was already set thanks to Play It Smart." (HA)
Praising Daily-Lyles, Long Beach Poly Academic Coach Monica Kim said:
"George's leadership skills have been invaluable to the football program. As team captain, he has taken on his younger teammates and stressed the importance of academics and discipline." (HA)
Praising Coach Kim, Daily-Lyles said:
"Coach Kim has helped me get to where I am today. Without Coach Kim, I don't know where I would be." (HA)
About honoring Daily-Lyles, NFF Chairman Archie Manning said:
"Each month we honor student-athletes who demonstrate excellence on the field, in the classroom, and in service to others. George is one these extraordinary student-athletes. We look forward to following the bright future of this remarkable young man." (HA)
Crediting his team for his award, Daily-Lyles said:
"[Play It Smart] has taught the whole Poly family, about family and that there are no individual successes without family success. So this honor is a team honor, not an individual honor." (HA)
About Play It Smart, Daily-Lyles said:
"Play It Smart is like a big brother standing over you and encouraging you to perform on and off-the-field. While my friends from other schools were fumbling around trying to keep up with the recruiting process, I was already set thanks to Play It Smart." (HA)
Praising Daily-Lyles, Long Beach Poly Academic Coach Monica Kim said:
"George's leadership skills have been invaluable to the football program. As team captain, he has taken on his younger teammates and stressed the importance of academics and discipline." (HA)
Praising Coach Kim, Daily-Lyles said:
"Coach Kim has helped me get to where I am today. Without Coach Kim, I don't know where I would be." (HA)
About honoring Daily-Lyles, NFF Chairman Archie Manning said:
"Each month we honor student-athletes who demonstrate excellence on the field, in the classroom, and in service to others. George is one these extraordinary student-athletes. We look forward to following the bright future of this remarkable young man." (HA)
Walk-on LB Vili Nauahi hasn't touched his Wheel of Fortune winnings yet
HA Note: "Now 6-foot-2 Nauahi is a linebacker, weighing 230 pounds (up 10 to 15 pounds from his playing weight during the 2008 season). This offseason he has been doing split workouts — lifting weights/agility drills and linebacker-related drills. Nauahi, who majors in philosophy and is a member of UH's Public Relations Club, is on track to earn a bachelor's degree in December. As a non-scholarship player, he has used work income and student loans to pay for his tuition."
About how he hasn't touched the $47,560 he won on Wheel of Fortune last year, Nauahi said:
"It's in the bank, tempting me. I was going to use the money to buy a car, but I figured I'd save it. I have no problems catching the bus." (HA)
About how he hasn't touched the $47,560 he won on Wheel of Fortune last year, Nauahi said:
"It's in the bank, tempting me. I was going to use the money to buy a car, but I figured I'd save it. I have no problems catching the bus." (HA)
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Miami's head coach talked about trading Samson
Asked about their decision to trade Samson, Miami head coach Tony Sparano said:
"It isn’t really about what I didn’t see in Samson but having the opportunity to upgrade the position. Jake Grove really was a guy in free agency we looked and targeted for a long time. I know Jake, I’ve done the guy coming out (of college in 2004). For us it’s an upgrade in an area that is critical in our division. You look at our division and the people those guys have to play against (including Pro Bowl nose tackles Vince Wilfork and Kris Jenkins)." (Palm Beach Post)
"It isn’t really about what I didn’t see in Samson but having the opportunity to upgrade the position. Jake Grove really was a guy in free agency we looked and targeted for a long time. I know Jake, I’ve done the guy coming out (of college in 2004). For us it’s an upgrade in an area that is critical in our division. You look at our division and the people those guys have to play against (including Pro Bowl nose tackles Vince Wilfork and Kris Jenkins)." (Palm Beach Post)
UH's 2nd Warrior Football Clinic is set for April 18
http://hawaiiathletics.com/news/2009/3/24/FB_0324091721.aspx?path=football
UH = UH Athletics Official site
UH Note: "University of Hawai`i head football coach Greg McMackin and his coaching staff will conduct the 2nd Annual Warrior Football Coaching Clinic Saturday, April 18 at the UH Athletics Complex. The clinic is open to all football coaches at a cost of $15."
About how he's looking forward to this year's clinic, Mac said:
"Last year was our first clinic and it was a huge success with coaches ranging from Pop Warner to high school. I’m really looking forward to this year’s clinic. We’re still looking to instill the basic fundamentals of coaching and we have a terrific staff who’ll share their knowledge, including two new members in Gordy Shaw and Chris Tormey." (UH)
UH = UH Athletics Official site
UH Note: "University of Hawai`i head football coach Greg McMackin and his coaching staff will conduct the 2nd Annual Warrior Football Coaching Clinic Saturday, April 18 at the UH Athletics Complex. The clinic is open to all football coaches at a cost of $15."
About how he's looking forward to this year's clinic, Mac said:
"Last year was our first clinic and it was a huge success with coaches ranging from Pop Warner to high school. I’m really looking forward to this year’s clinic. We’re still looking to instill the basic fundamentals of coaching and we have a terrific staff who’ll share their knowledge, including two new members in Gordy Shaw and Chris Tormey." (UH)
Samson looks forward to getting to Oakland
About wearing black with the Raiders, Samson (who wore black with the Warriors) said:
"I wouldn't mind getting back in a black jersey again." (HSB)
Looking forward to getting to Oakland, Samson said:
"I'm really excited. I'm glad the Dolphins drafted me, but it's a business. They went in another direction, but it worked out good and I can't wait to get to Oakland and start fresh. I have a lot of family in California. Everybody's happy and I just have to do my job now." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Satele said his timetable for reporting to the Raiders is "ASAP," and he's now immersed in moving his family from South Florida to northern California."
About winning just one game his rookie year and making the playoffs in his second year, Samson said:
"Coming in my rookie year I didn't know what to expect and to win only one game was hard. But to be part of that turnaround was awesome." (HSB)
"I wouldn't mind getting back in a black jersey again." (HSB)
Looking forward to getting to Oakland, Samson said:
"I'm really excited. I'm glad the Dolphins drafted me, but it's a business. They went in another direction, but it worked out good and I can't wait to get to Oakland and start fresh. I have a lot of family in California. Everybody's happy and I just have to do my job now." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Satele said his timetable for reporting to the Raiders is "ASAP," and he's now immersed in moving his family from South Florida to northern California."
About winning just one game his rookie year and making the playoffs in his second year, Samson said:
"Coming in my rookie year I didn't know what to expect and to win only one game was hard. But to be part of that turnaround was awesome." (HSB)
Monday, March 23, 2009
Samson interview in the San Francisco Chronicle
SFC = San Francisco Chronicle
About being prepared for 3-4 defenses because he practiced against one in Miami, Samson said:
"I practiced on it and played against it all the time, so I know a lot about it. It'll help a lot." (SFC)
SFC Note: "He's agile and athletic, a plus for the zone-blocking scheme used by the Raiders. But, he reportedly struggled with the bigger nose guards in the division - namely, the Patriots' Vince Wolford and the Jets' Kris Jenkins."
SFC Note: "Satele said he's never played in a zone-blocking scheme, which requires lesser-sized linemen to be on the move instead of dropping anchor in a power scheme."
About how he feels he'll be a good fit for Oakland's zone-blocking scheme, Samson said:
"I've watched it before, so I think it'll be a good fit for me because I'm athletic. I'm fired up." (SFC)
About being prepared for 3-4 defenses because he practiced against one in Miami, Samson said:
"I practiced on it and played against it all the time, so I know a lot about it. It'll help a lot." (SFC)
SFC Note: "He's agile and athletic, a plus for the zone-blocking scheme used by the Raiders. But, he reportedly struggled with the bigger nose guards in the division - namely, the Patriots' Vince Wolford and the Jets' Kris Jenkins."
SFC Note: "Satele said he's never played in a zone-blocking scheme, which requires lesser-sized linemen to be on the move instead of dropping anchor in a power scheme."
About how he feels he'll be a good fit for Oakland's zone-blocking scheme, Samson said:
"I've watched it before, so I think it'll be a good fit for me because I'm athletic. I'm fired up." (SFC)
Samson news from the Florida papers
PBP = Palm Beach Post
SFSS = South Florida Sun-Sentinel
MH = Miami Herald
About how Samson's injured shoulder was worse than they thought, his agent Leo Goeas said:
"I didn't know how bad it was until he had an MRI taken. I don't know how he played with it. There was a chunk of bone that had broken loose and taken part of his labrum with it." (SFSS)
About how Samson is going through rehab now and should be ready to start the season, Goeas said:
"If he is healthy, he can go up against any nose tackle." (SFSS)
SFSS Note: "Goeas said Satele was not surprised by the trade, since the Dolphins had made it clear by acquiring Grove that Satele was not part of their future plans at center."
About how Samson isn't upset with the Dolphins, Goeas said:
"There are no hard feelings. He enjoyed his time with the Dolphins and now is glad to be in a place where he is wanted and will be appreciated." (SFSS)
About trading Samson, Miami GM Jeff Ireland said:
"We signed another center and feel like we had to get better in that area. It’s pretty critical that we did. We saw there was some value out there with Samson. We felt like if we kept Samson we would have moved him to guard and let him compete. But we found out there was significant value for Samson." (PBP)
"We just felt like we had to get better. Physical stature is not applicable in this case." (PBP)
"We feel like we had to get better in that area. It's pretty critical that we did." (SFSS)
MH Note: "Ireland confirmed that the Dolphins received a sixth-round NFL Draft pick from the Oakland Raiders in exchange for center Samson Satele and also swapped fourth-round picks as part of the deal. Miami's pick in that fourth round improves 18 spots."
About how Bill Parcells wants his own players, NY Giants owner John Mara said:
"His quote was always, if you're going to cook the meal, they ought to let you pick the groceries out. He obviously does a pretty good job picking the groceries. He obviously has an eye for talent and knows how to put a winning program together." (SFSS)
SFSS Note: "It didn't help Satele, a second-round pick in 2007, that Parcells didn't bring him to South Florida. Sunday's move continued the turnover of Dolphins' personnel since Parcells was hired in December of 2007. Of the 65 players on the roster, 21 were with the team when Parcells arrived."
SFSS = South Florida Sun-Sentinel
MH = Miami Herald
About how Samson's injured shoulder was worse than they thought, his agent Leo Goeas said:
"I didn't know how bad it was until he had an MRI taken. I don't know how he played with it. There was a chunk of bone that had broken loose and taken part of his labrum with it." (SFSS)
About how Samson is going through rehab now and should be ready to start the season, Goeas said:
"If he is healthy, he can go up against any nose tackle." (SFSS)
SFSS Note: "Goeas said Satele was not surprised by the trade, since the Dolphins had made it clear by acquiring Grove that Satele was not part of their future plans at center."
About how Samson isn't upset with the Dolphins, Goeas said:
"There are no hard feelings. He enjoyed his time with the Dolphins and now is glad to be in a place where he is wanted and will be appreciated." (SFSS)
About trading Samson, Miami GM Jeff Ireland said:
"We signed another center and feel like we had to get better in that area. It’s pretty critical that we did. We saw there was some value out there with Samson. We felt like if we kept Samson we would have moved him to guard and let him compete. But we found out there was significant value for Samson." (PBP)
"We just felt like we had to get better. Physical stature is not applicable in this case." (PBP)
"We feel like we had to get better in that area. It's pretty critical that we did." (SFSS)
MH Note: "Ireland confirmed that the Dolphins received a sixth-round NFL Draft pick from the Oakland Raiders in exchange for center Samson Satele and also swapped fourth-round picks as part of the deal. Miami's pick in that fourth round improves 18 spots."
About how Bill Parcells wants his own players, NY Giants owner John Mara said:
"His quote was always, if you're going to cook the meal, they ought to let you pick the groceries out. He obviously does a pretty good job picking the groceries. He obviously has an eye for talent and knows how to put a winning program together." (SFSS)
SFSS Note: "It didn't help Satele, a second-round pick in 2007, that Parcells didn't bring him to South Florida. Sunday's move continued the turnover of Dolphins' personnel since Parcells was hired in December of 2007. Of the 65 players on the roster, 21 were with the team when Parcells arrived."
Another update about Samson going to the Raiders
About Miami trading him, Samson said:
"They went in another direction. But it worked out good and I can't wait to get to Oakland and start fresh." (HSB)
About Samson's expectations with the Raiders, his agent Leo Goeas said:
"Sam's very excited to get to the west coast, closer to family and friends. And with the Raiders, he's expected to start at center, be a Pro Bowl player and be the leader of the offensive line." (HSB)
"They went in another direction. But it worked out good and I can't wait to get to Oakland and start fresh." (HSB)
About Samson's expectations with the Raiders, his agent Leo Goeas said:
"Sam's very excited to get to the west coast, closer to family and friends. And with the Raiders, he's expected to start at center, be a Pro Bowl player and be the leader of the offensive line." (HSB)
Feature story on Alex Dunnachie
TA = The Age
TA Note: "FOR Alex Dunnachie it's not so much like a dream come true as living an unimaginable fantasy. Last June, the 18-year-old was happily plugging away at his VCE at Marcellin College, playing school footy on Friday afternoons and having a kick with Banyule on weekends. His immediate plans were to pass school, defer uni for a year, get some money behind him and see what happened next."
About how he was encouraged to attend the try outs for ProKick Australia, a new punting school set up by Nathan Chapman (former Brisband and Hawthorn defender), Dunnachie said:
"It was a bit wet the morning of the try-outs and I just wanted to stay in bed." (TA)
Still having trouble believing that his UH scholarship is real, Dunnachie said:
"Everyone's still just trying to wrap their heads around it, like it doesn't exist. You don't even think about something like this, so how can it be happening?" (TA)
About the three football scholarships (Jordan Berry to Eastern Kentucky and Tom Duyndam to Portland State) from Melbourne teenagers who attended his camp, Chapman said:
"This is huge. Even in America, it's not often that you'll get a punter walk straight into a full scholarship. For us to get three guys across the line, it's unheard of." (TA)
"These three are the exact target we're trying to hit — kids just out of high school, who missed the AFL draft. We're giving them another option." (TA)
Happy Berry and Duyndam got scholarships also, Dunnachie said they have:
"all been in this together, being led blindly without really knowing what was going on". (TA)
About how he knew nothing about American football a year ago, Dunnachie said:
"I'm still learning the rules now, trying to anyway." (TA)
About a conversation he had with UH coaches when he went to Hawaii on a recruiting visit (his first time out of Australia), Dunnachie said:
"They asked what the biggest crowd was I'd played in front of. I said, 'Maybe 150.' They're like, 'That's 150,000?' I said, 'No, that's 150 people."' (TA)
Asked about how he could be playing in front of 60,000 people now, Dunnachie said:
"It's a bit daunting when you look at it like that." (TA)
TA Note: "BANYULE will have to get by without him, as the college wants him in residence by the end of May to start training, begin a sports medicine degree and work towards a masters in physiotherapy."
Dunnachie said that his scholarship is worth around $15,000, and:
"all my needs are paid for." (TA)
About how his Australian rules football teammates used to tease him for kicking the ball so far, Dunnachie said:
"they reckoned I wouldn't pass, just tried to kick it as far as I could." (TA)
http://www.theage.com.au/news/sport/taking-a-punt-leads-to-hawaiian-shores/2009/03/23/1237656851240.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap3
TA Note: "FOR Alex Dunnachie it's not so much like a dream come true as living an unimaginable fantasy. Last June, the 18-year-old was happily plugging away at his VCE at Marcellin College, playing school footy on Friday afternoons and having a kick with Banyule on weekends. His immediate plans were to pass school, defer uni for a year, get some money behind him and see what happened next."
About how he was encouraged to attend the try outs for ProKick Australia, a new punting school set up by Nathan Chapman (former Brisband and Hawthorn defender), Dunnachie said:
"It was a bit wet the morning of the try-outs and I just wanted to stay in bed." (TA)
Still having trouble believing that his UH scholarship is real, Dunnachie said:
"Everyone's still just trying to wrap their heads around it, like it doesn't exist. You don't even think about something like this, so how can it be happening?" (TA)
About the three football scholarships (Jordan Berry to Eastern Kentucky and Tom Duyndam to Portland State) from Melbourne teenagers who attended his camp, Chapman said:
"This is huge. Even in America, it's not often that you'll get a punter walk straight into a full scholarship. For us to get three guys across the line, it's unheard of." (TA)
"These three are the exact target we're trying to hit — kids just out of high school, who missed the AFL draft. We're giving them another option." (TA)
Happy Berry and Duyndam got scholarships also, Dunnachie said they have:
"all been in this together, being led blindly without really knowing what was going on". (TA)
About how he knew nothing about American football a year ago, Dunnachie said:
"I'm still learning the rules now, trying to anyway." (TA)
About a conversation he had with UH coaches when he went to Hawaii on a recruiting visit (his first time out of Australia), Dunnachie said:
"They asked what the biggest crowd was I'd played in front of. I said, 'Maybe 150.' They're like, 'That's 150,000?' I said, 'No, that's 150 people."' (TA)
Asked about how he could be playing in front of 60,000 people now, Dunnachie said:
"It's a bit daunting when you look at it like that." (TA)
TA Note: "BANYULE will have to get by without him, as the college wants him in residence by the end of May to start training, begin a sports medicine degree and work towards a masters in physiotherapy."
Dunnachie said that his scholarship is worth around $15,000, and:
"all my needs are paid for." (TA)
About how his Australian rules football teammates used to tease him for kicking the ball so far, Dunnachie said:
"they reckoned I wouldn't pass, just tried to kick it as far as I could." (TA)
http://www.theage.com.au/news/sport/taking-a-punt-leads-to-hawaiian-shores/2009/03/23/1237656851240.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap3
Samson Satele is happy with the trade to Oakland
About how Samson is happy with his trade to Oakland, his agent Leo Goeas said:
"Samson is excited about the trade. He wanted to be some place where he would be appreciated. As soon as Jake Grove signed with the Dolphins, the Raiders wanted (Satele) at center." (HA)
About the trade to Oakland, Samson said:
"I'm happy. It's close to home. It's just a hop over the ocean." (HA)
"When I got the call from the (Dolphins') GM, I thanked him. It's a business. They went one way. I'm happy to go to the Raiders. It's a fresh start." (HA)
HA Note: "Satele started every regular-season game in 2008 despite a torn labrum in his right (snapping) shoulder. During the postseason surgery, doctors discovered that there was a piece of bone that was broken off from the shoulder. A procedure was performed to correct that tear. Goeas said the surgeries were successful, and Satele will be ready to play. Satele will earn $460,000 in base salary this season, and $550,000 in 2010."
"Samson is excited about the trade. He wanted to be some place where he would be appreciated. As soon as Jake Grove signed with the Dolphins, the Raiders wanted (Satele) at center." (HA)
About the trade to Oakland, Samson said:
"I'm happy. It's close to home. It's just a hop over the ocean." (HA)
"When I got the call from the (Dolphins') GM, I thanked him. It's a business. They went one way. I'm happy to go to the Raiders. It's a fresh start." (HA)
HA Note: "Satele started every regular-season game in 2008 despite a torn labrum in his right (snapping) shoulder. During the postseason surgery, doctors discovered that there was a piece of bone that was broken off from the shoulder. A procedure was performed to correct that tear. Goeas said the surgeries were successful, and Satele will be ready to play. Satele will earn $460,000 in base salary this season, and $550,000 in 2010."
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Update on #1 LT Aaron Kia
About how he's still trying to gain back the weight he lost after the Hawaii Bowl, Kia said:
"I got sick after the bowl game. I dropped weight like crazy. I've had a hard time gaining it back." (HA)
HA Note: "He said he hopes to gain five to 10 pounds this week. Spring practice starts March 30."
About being the #1 LT now, Kia said:
"I'm just happy I still have my starting spot, and (the coaches) have faith in me. I'm going to produce for them the best I can with what I have." (HA)
"I got sick after the bowl game. I dropped weight like crazy. I've had a hard time gaining it back." (HA)
HA Note: "He said he hopes to gain five to 10 pounds this week. Spring practice starts March 30."
About being the #1 LT now, Kia said:
"I'm just happy I still have my starting spot, and (the coaches) have faith in me. I'm going to produce for them the best I can with what I have." (HA)
Update on Inoke Funaki at the Bulldog position
About the hybrid RB/slotback position that he's expected to play during spring training, Inoke said:
"Bulldog? I thought they were talking about Kaimuki." (HA)
HA Note: "For Funaki, the key will be his ability to block. Funaki said he has picked up blocking tips from Kealoha Pilares, who is moving from running back to slotback this spring."
About how running from the RB or slotback position is different than running as a QB, Inoke said:
"it'll be different. It's not like when you're scrambling, and everyone is more scattered out." (HA)
About adjusting to the slotback position, Inoke said:
"I'm working on footwork, speed, cutting and catching the ball. It's not as easy as these guys tend to make it look. You gain a lot of appreciation when you go out and do it." (HA)
Wishing that they would rename his position "Raider", Inoke (who played for Kahuku) said:
"I wouldn't complain about that." (HA)
"Bulldog? I thought they were talking about Kaimuki." (HA)
HA Note: "For Funaki, the key will be his ability to block. Funaki said he has picked up blocking tips from Kealoha Pilares, who is moving from running back to slotback this spring."
About how running from the RB or slotback position is different than running as a QB, Inoke said:
"it'll be different. It's not like when you're scrambling, and everyone is more scattered out." (HA)
About adjusting to the slotback position, Inoke said:
"I'm working on footwork, speed, cutting and catching the ball. It's not as easy as these guys tend to make it look. You gain a lot of appreciation when you go out and do it." (HA)
Wishing that they would rename his position "Raider", Inoke (who played for Kahuku) said:
"I wouldn't complain about that." (HA)
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Updates on Alema Tachibana and PaiPai Falemalu
About how he's been trying to gain weight, but he's still at the 200 pounds that he played at as a Kahuku senior, Alema Tachibana said:
"I eat breakfast, lunch, dinner, proteins. It's not working." (HA)
About trying to get his weight up, Tachibana (who is competing at DE even though he's at 200 pounds now) said:
"I want to get up to 220." (HA)
HA Note: "But the coaches note that Melila Purcell III and Ikaika Alama-Francis both weighed about 205 when they first joined the UH football team. Both filled out, and both are now in the NFL."
About other Warriors who were able to gain weight and make it into the NFL, Tachibana said:
"There's hope." (HA)
About how his recovery from right shoulder surgery has gone well but he'll be restricted during spring practice (he can compete in agility drills and light weight lifting), Paipai said:
"I'll just run and learn my plays." (HA)
About how he suffered his shoulder injury (diagnosed with a torn labrum) initially in high school, Paipai said:
"I thought it was a little sore, but I kept playing. When I got here, they told me I tore something." (HA)
HA Note: "Falemalu, who weighed 215 at Kahuku, is now up to 242. He said he hopes to tone up, but not necessarily drop a lot of weight, this summer."
"I eat breakfast, lunch, dinner, proteins. It's not working." (HA)
About trying to get his weight up, Tachibana (who is competing at DE even though he's at 200 pounds now) said:
"I want to get up to 220." (HA)
HA Note: "But the coaches note that Melila Purcell III and Ikaika Alama-Francis both weighed about 205 when they first joined the UH football team. Both filled out, and both are now in the NFL."
About other Warriors who were able to gain weight and make it into the NFL, Tachibana said:
"There's hope." (HA)
About how his recovery from right shoulder surgery has gone well but he'll be restricted during spring practice (he can compete in agility drills and light weight lifting), Paipai said:
"I'll just run and learn my plays." (HA)
About how he suffered his shoulder injury (diagnosed with a torn labrum) initially in high school, Paipai said:
"I thought it was a little sore, but I kept playing. When I got here, they told me I tore something." (HA)
HA Note: "Falemalu, who weighed 215 at Kahuku, is now up to 242. He said he hopes to tone up, but not necessarily drop a lot of weight, this summer."
Warriors prepare for Pro Day on April 2
About trying to improve his 40-yard dash and agility drill times before their Pro Day, Adam Leonard said:
"I wish it was sooner. I'm just taking every day to prepare my self and go out there and give my best effort." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Leonard trained at Sports and Field in Tampa, Fla., before moving back to the West Coast to finish out his training in the Bay Area as he looks forward to his opportunity to perform for the pro scouts. Elimimian finished his career in December as UH's all-time tackles leader and has been training with Doug Hix of Play Fast Athletics in San Diego. Among those joining Elimimian in the training sessions have been former Boise State running back Ian Johnson, Michigan State running back Javon Ringer and Nebraska running back Marlon Lucky."
About the other players that he's been training with, Sol said:
"It's a lot of competition, it's been fun, it's been good training." (HSB)
About trying to maintain his weight at 230 pounds while putting on more lean muscle and cutting down his time in the 40, Sol said:
"That's something I'm working on and I have confidence it's going to be where it should be by the time I'm ready to run." (HSB)
"I wish it was sooner. I'm just taking every day to prepare my self and go out there and give my best effort." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Leonard trained at Sports and Field in Tampa, Fla., before moving back to the West Coast to finish out his training in the Bay Area as he looks forward to his opportunity to perform for the pro scouts. Elimimian finished his career in December as UH's all-time tackles leader and has been training with Doug Hix of Play Fast Athletics in San Diego. Among those joining Elimimian in the training sessions have been former Boise State running back Ian Johnson, Michigan State running back Javon Ringer and Nebraska running back Marlon Lucky."
About the other players that he's been training with, Sol said:
"It's a lot of competition, it's been fun, it's been good training." (HSB)
About trying to maintain his weight at 230 pounds while putting on more lean muscle and cutting down his time in the 40, Sol said:
"That's something I'm working on and I have confidence it's going to be where it should be by the time I'm ready to run." (HSB)
Friday, March 20, 2009
Shawn Withy-Allen is back at QB for the Fayetteville Guard!
FO = Fayettville Observer
About convincing Shawn Withy-Allen to come out of retirement to play QB for the Fayetteville Guard, head coach Charles Gunnings said:
“One of my first priorities this year was to get my quarterback. We missed him last year.’’ (FO)
FO Note: "Gunnings believes bringing Withy-Allen back for a full season in 2009 will be a key element in the Guard rebounding from a 5-9 finish last year that kept them out of the playoffs for the first time in franchise history."
FO Note: "Withy-Allen, a former University of Hawaii player, led the Guard to 27 wins, including one unbeaten season, as their quarterback between 2005 and 2007. But he decided to step away from the game after the 2007 season to concentrate on his profession as a Christian youth minister and spend time with his new wife, Sarah."
About retiring after coming back for 3 games (going 2-1 and throwing 15 TD in the 3 games), Withy-Allen said:
“I thought it was probably time to hang it up after last year. I had a couple of tryouts with some NFL teams, the (Carolina) Panthers and (Philadelphia) Eagles, but nothing seemed to be working out there. Plus, I had my job and my wife was pregnant with our first child. So, it kind of seemed like the time to retire for good this time.’’ (FO)
About how he had to convince Shawn's wife to let him play, Gunnings said:
“I talked to his wife. You can see the look in her eyes when she watches him play. And I think she knew he’d be miserable if he stepped away right now.’’ (FO)
About the WRs on their team, Withy-Allen said:
“We really have some great receivers and it’s exciting to work with them." (FO)
http://www.fayobserver.com/article?id=321733
About convincing Shawn Withy-Allen to come out of retirement to play QB for the Fayetteville Guard, head coach Charles Gunnings said:
“One of my first priorities this year was to get my quarterback. We missed him last year.’’ (FO)
FO Note: "Gunnings believes bringing Withy-Allen back for a full season in 2009 will be a key element in the Guard rebounding from a 5-9 finish last year that kept them out of the playoffs for the first time in franchise history."
FO Note: "Withy-Allen, a former University of Hawaii player, led the Guard to 27 wins, including one unbeaten season, as their quarterback between 2005 and 2007. But he decided to step away from the game after the 2007 season to concentrate on his profession as a Christian youth minister and spend time with his new wife, Sarah."
About retiring after coming back for 3 games (going 2-1 and throwing 15 TD in the 3 games), Withy-Allen said:
“I thought it was probably time to hang it up after last year. I had a couple of tryouts with some NFL teams, the (Carolina) Panthers and (Philadelphia) Eagles, but nothing seemed to be working out there. Plus, I had my job and my wife was pregnant with our first child. So, it kind of seemed like the time to retire for good this time.’’ (FO)
About how he had to convince Shawn's wife to let him play, Gunnings said:
“I talked to his wife. You can see the look in her eyes when she watches him play. And I think she knew he’d be miserable if he stepped away right now.’’ (FO)
About the WRs on their team, Withy-Allen said:
“We really have some great receivers and it’s exciting to work with them." (FO)
http://www.fayobserver.com/article?id=321733
Warrior Updates from the Star Bulletin
About how they plan to work hard during Spring Break, as Spring Practice starts after Spring Break is over, Rocky Savaiigaea said:
"We understand how it is, there is no spring break for us. It’s just straight ahead to spring ball, that’s what we train for." (HSB)
About how the Warriors have been working hard during the offseason, Mac said:
"They guys are working hard, but that’s what I expect of them. Mel DeLaura and Tommy (Heffernan) have done a great job of getting our guys in condition and now we have to maintain that." (HSB)
HSB Note: "McMackin is hosting a group of coaches from Japan today and a larger group is expected to attend UH’s coaches clinic next month."
HSB Note: "Several former Warriors are also busy training for UH’s pro day set for April 2 in Carson, Calif. Solomon Elimimian is training in San Diego. Adam Leonard was working out at a facility in Tampa, Fla., earlier and is now training in the Bay Area in preparation for a shot to perform for the scouts."
"We understand how it is, there is no spring break for us. It’s just straight ahead to spring ball, that’s what we train for." (HSB)
About how the Warriors have been working hard during the offseason, Mac said:
"They guys are working hard, but that’s what I expect of them. Mel DeLaura and Tommy (Heffernan) have done a great job of getting our guys in condition and now we have to maintain that." (HSB)
HSB Note: "McMackin is hosting a group of coaches from Japan today and a larger group is expected to attend UH’s coaches clinic next month."
HSB Note: "Several former Warriors are also busy training for UH’s pro day set for April 2 in Carson, Calif. Solomon Elimimian is training in San Diego. Adam Leonard was working out at a facility in Tampa, Fla., earlier and is now training in the Bay Area in preparation for a shot to perform for the scouts."
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Updates about UH's 2010 schedule
HA Note: "For the first time in its history, the University of Hawai'i football team could play two sets of back-to-back road games in a single season, according to some scenarios under Western Athletic Conference scheduling consideration for 2009."
About possibly having the Warriors have back-to-back conference road games in October, WAC associate commissioner Jeff Hurd said that it:
"has been discussed, but only in terms of possible options depending upon how (ESPN) television falls out." (HA)
HA Note: "UH athletic director Jim Donovan said the possibility of two sets of back-to-back road games arises, in part, from UH's preference to avoid having one span of three consecutive road games. UH hasn't played three consecutive road games since 1964. Donovan said UH has asked for either an open date or a home game for the Sept. 26 slot that follows road games with Washington State and UNLV. Otherwise, he said, UH could find itself playing a WAC road game at, for example, Louisiana Tech or Idaho that week."
About how they do not want 3 straight road games, a concern after they already have back-to-back nonconference road games scheduled this year, JD said:
"That's something we'd like to avoid. We've done 10 (consecutive) days on the road, but going past that it is pushing it." (HA)
HA Note: "Part of the problem is that since UH is scheduled to play 13 games and the NCAA-approved football season spans only 14 weeks this year, compared with 15 in 2008, an open date on Sept. 26 forces UH to play 10 consecutive weeks."
About having one less Saturday for games this year, JD said:
"At some point, you're looking at consecutive (WAC) road games. I don't envy the problems the WAC has trying to make a schedule this season. With fewer weekends, TV and everything else it is difficult to please everybody." (HA)
HA Note: "To remedy the situation, Donovan said he has requested that if UH is asked to play back-to-back conference road games that the Warriors be given opponents in close proximity such as San Jose State and Nevada."
About the WAC schedule, Hurd said:
"it is simply too early in the process to speculate on what might happen for Hawai'i or any other school for that matter." (HA)
About how the WAC schedule (the 2008 version was announced in February) might not be announced until April, Hurd said:
"I highly doubt it will be before the end of (this) month." (HA)
About how the WAC told them that the schedule should be done by the end of this month, JD said:
"They told us that we should have it by the end of the month. That would still work for us. Most ADs are chomping at the bit to get it so we can make sure we can get our travel arrangements all done and get the travel packages out there for our fans and all those kinds of things. Even though it is later than usual, it is workable for us." (HSB)
JD said that the Warriors could appear on national or regional TV 3 times, but:
"that's not set in stone." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Donovan has also expressed to the WAC the school's preference for a home game or a bye the weekend of Sept. 26 following the Warriors' back-to-back road games at Washington State and UNLV."
About possibly having the Warriors have back-to-back conference road games in October, WAC associate commissioner Jeff Hurd said that it:
"has been discussed, but only in terms of possible options depending upon how (ESPN) television falls out." (HA)
HA Note: "UH athletic director Jim Donovan said the possibility of two sets of back-to-back road games arises, in part, from UH's preference to avoid having one span of three consecutive road games. UH hasn't played three consecutive road games since 1964. Donovan said UH has asked for either an open date or a home game for the Sept. 26 slot that follows road games with Washington State and UNLV. Otherwise, he said, UH could find itself playing a WAC road game at, for example, Louisiana Tech or Idaho that week."
About how they do not want 3 straight road games, a concern after they already have back-to-back nonconference road games scheduled this year, JD said:
"That's something we'd like to avoid. We've done 10 (consecutive) days on the road, but going past that it is pushing it." (HA)
HA Note: "Part of the problem is that since UH is scheduled to play 13 games and the NCAA-approved football season spans only 14 weeks this year, compared with 15 in 2008, an open date on Sept. 26 forces UH to play 10 consecutive weeks."
About having one less Saturday for games this year, JD said:
"At some point, you're looking at consecutive (WAC) road games. I don't envy the problems the WAC has trying to make a schedule this season. With fewer weekends, TV and everything else it is difficult to please everybody." (HA)
HA Note: "To remedy the situation, Donovan said he has requested that if UH is asked to play back-to-back conference road games that the Warriors be given opponents in close proximity such as San Jose State and Nevada."
About the WAC schedule, Hurd said:
"it is simply too early in the process to speculate on what might happen for Hawai'i or any other school for that matter." (HA)
About how the WAC schedule (the 2008 version was announced in February) might not be announced until April, Hurd said:
"I highly doubt it will be before the end of (this) month." (HA)
About how the WAC told them that the schedule should be done by the end of this month, JD said:
"They told us that we should have it by the end of the month. That would still work for us. Most ADs are chomping at the bit to get it so we can make sure we can get our travel arrangements all done and get the travel packages out there for our fans and all those kinds of things. Even though it is later than usual, it is workable for us." (HSB)
JD said that the Warriors could appear on national or regional TV 3 times, but:
"that's not set in stone." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Donovan has also expressed to the WAC the school's preference for a home game or a bye the weekend of Sept. 26 following the Warriors' back-to-back road games at Washington State and UNLV."
Article about how the Super Games bring the Warriors together
About how the Super Games brings the Warriors together, Rocky Savaiigaea said:
"It brings us together a lot. We work so hard during the week with individual drills, it's a good chance one day out of the week we can come together and mix it up and we just have fun with it." (HSB)
HSB Note: "The Warriors hit the weight room four days a week with Wednesday mornings reserved for events including basketball, water polo and yesterday's home run derby at Les Murakami Stadium. UH head coach Greg McMackin introduced the Super Games last year with teams earning points for their performances in the events and their progress in the classroom and the weight room. Players could earn bonus points by making significant gains in their lifting or attending extra study halls. Missing or being late for a class or a workout resulted in points being deducted from the team's total."
About how the Super Game team captains make sure that the players keep up with school and workouts, Rocky said:
"You don't want to mess up for the team. Instead of coaches telling you what to do, you have team captains and they're the ones who keep you on track." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Yesterday's finale was won by Tunda Katz, captained by defensive lineman Tuika Tufaga. A plate was set up in shallow center field at Murakami Stadium with each player getting two swings to try to pop a tennis ball over the fence. With his team down to its last out, Mana Silva kept the Tunda Katz alive with a home run. Steele Jantz then won it with a homer in a tiebreaker round."
About how his players have worked out extremely hard this offseason, Mac said:
"These guys have worked out harder than any group I've been around since I've been here as far as the offseason. This is a group that really is hungry." (HSB)
"It brings us together a lot. We work so hard during the week with individual drills, it's a good chance one day out of the week we can come together and mix it up and we just have fun with it." (HSB)
HSB Note: "The Warriors hit the weight room four days a week with Wednesday mornings reserved for events including basketball, water polo and yesterday's home run derby at Les Murakami Stadium. UH head coach Greg McMackin introduced the Super Games last year with teams earning points for their performances in the events and their progress in the classroom and the weight room. Players could earn bonus points by making significant gains in their lifting or attending extra study halls. Missing or being late for a class or a workout resulted in points being deducted from the team's total."
About how the Super Game team captains make sure that the players keep up with school and workouts, Rocky said:
"You don't want to mess up for the team. Instead of coaches telling you what to do, you have team captains and they're the ones who keep you on track." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Yesterday's finale was won by Tunda Katz, captained by defensive lineman Tuika Tufaga. A plate was set up in shallow center field at Murakami Stadium with each player getting two swings to try to pop a tennis ball over the fence. With his team down to its last out, Mana Silva kept the Tunda Katz alive with a home run. Steele Jantz then won it with a homer in a tiebreaker round."
About how his players have worked out extremely hard this offseason, Mac said:
"These guys have worked out harder than any group I've been around since I've been here as far as the offseason. This is a group that really is hungry." (HSB)
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Ryan Mouton discusses his NFL prospects
About concerns over his 5'9" height, Ryan Mouton pointed out his leaping ability and added:
"I'm good in man-to-man coverage, and I think that will really help out in the NFL. I have a really good ability to jump that allows me to do well against the bigger receivers." (scout.com)
About his reputation for speed and field intelligence, Mouton said:
"I've been playing the game since I've been about six years old. So understanding what's going on in the game is one of my key attributes. I love the game of football. To me it's not about the money, I'd just like to get out there and have fun. Even in practice, I really have high spirits." (scout.com)
About how his success as a blitzer out of the nickel formation will help him make it in the NFL, Mouton said:
"It takes a lot of timing. You watch guys like Troy Polamalu, he times his blitzes really well. You have to get in there and study their offense and the cadence of their quarterback. That helps you out a lot." (scout.com)
"I'm good in man-to-man coverage, and I think that will really help out in the NFL. I have a really good ability to jump that allows me to do well against the bigger receivers." (scout.com)
About his reputation for speed and field intelligence, Mouton said:
"I've been playing the game since I've been about six years old. So understanding what's going on in the game is one of my key attributes. I love the game of football. To me it's not about the money, I'd just like to get out there and have fun. Even in practice, I really have high spirits." (scout.com)
About how his success as a blitzer out of the nickel formation will help him make it in the NFL, Mouton said:
"It takes a lot of timing. You watch guys like Troy Polamalu, he times his blitzes really well. You have to get in there and study their offense and the cadence of their quarterback. That helps you out a lot." (scout.com)
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Discussion of Jake Grove signed to replace Samson Satele at center for the Dolphins
About how Grove is an upgrade over Samson, former Broncos GM Ted Sundquist said:
''Stronger and stouter than Satele." (Miami Herald)
Questioning if Grove's big contract was worth it, Raiders radio analyst and former coach Tom Flores said that Grove creates a good push on running player, but like Samson:
''he has trouble with the premier nose guards, like Baltimore has.''
Flores said that Grove's pass blocking is:
''adequate. I don't think it's great. The question is, can he stay healthy? Every time he got into a groove, he would get some injury. I don't think Oakland would have paid what Miami did [$14 million guaranteed]." (Miami Herald)
''Stronger and stouter than Satele." (Miami Herald)
Questioning if Grove's big contract was worth it, Raiders radio analyst and former coach Tom Flores said that Grove creates a good push on running player, but like Samson:
''he has trouble with the premier nose guards, like Baltimore has.''
Flores said that Grove's pass blocking is:
''adequate. I don't think it's great. The question is, can he stay healthy? Every time he got into a groove, he would get some injury. I don't think Oakland would have paid what Miami did [$14 million guaranteed]." (Miami Herald)
Friday, March 13, 2009
Quote from Mac about Warriors special teams coach Chris Tormey
About hiring former WAC head coach Chris Tormey to be their special teams coach, Mac said:
“I’ve known Chris for many years and he’s always been a first class person and excellent football coach. Even when he was the head coach at Nevada and Idaho, he worked with the special teams. He’s also one of the best recruiters in the country and his area included the state of Hawai‘i. His work ethic is second to none and I know he will be a great addition to our staff and I’m really excited about him." (Reno Gazette-Journal)
“I’ve known Chris for many years and he’s always been a first class person and excellent football coach. Even when he was the head coach at Nevada and Idaho, he worked with the special teams. He’s also one of the best recruiters in the country and his area included the state of Hawai‘i. His work ethic is second to none and I know he will be a great addition to our staff and I’m really excited about him." (Reno Gazette-Journal)
Monday, March 9, 2009
Fresno State asked to have the WAC dues reduced
Bee = Fresno Bee
About how Fresno State will "formally" ask the WAC to reduce its dues, Fresno State athletic director Thomas Boeh said:
"It seems entirely reasonable for the league to find ways to be more efficient." (Bee)
Bee Note: "He didn't identify the amount Fresno State pays, or how big a cut the university will seek. The 2008-09 budget lists "conference assessments" at $403,000, but it's not clear whether this expenditure is tied to WAC dues.
The athletic department projected revenues of $25.4 million and expenditures of $25.3 million this school year. The deep recession is hurting revenues; university officials are cutting costs. Still, a university official told the board, athletics is looking at a budget deficit of about $250,000. And that's assuming the successful implementation of a recently mandated 7% cut in operating expenses for each sport this year, even the fall and winter sports. Operating expenses include travel, equipment and recruiting. They don't include scholarships and salaries."
Bee provided information on Fresno State's recruiting budget:
"Take football, for example. According to the 2008-09 budget, football was to have $1.31 million in operating expenses such as team travel ($757,608), equipment ($190,000) and recruiting ($130,000)."
About how Fresno State will "formally" ask the WAC to reduce its dues, Fresno State athletic director Thomas Boeh said:
"It seems entirely reasonable for the league to find ways to be more efficient." (Bee)
Bee Note: "He didn't identify the amount Fresno State pays, or how big a cut the university will seek. The 2008-09 budget lists "conference assessments" at $403,000, but it's not clear whether this expenditure is tied to WAC dues.
The athletic department projected revenues of $25.4 million and expenditures of $25.3 million this school year. The deep recession is hurting revenues; university officials are cutting costs. Still, a university official told the board, athletics is looking at a budget deficit of about $250,000. And that's assuming the successful implementation of a recently mandated 7% cut in operating expenses for each sport this year, even the fall and winter sports. Operating expenses include travel, equipment and recruiting. They don't include scholarships and salaries."
Bee provided information on Fresno State's recruiting budget:
"Take football, for example. According to the 2008-09 budget, football was to have $1.31 million in operating expenses such as team travel ($757,608), equipment ($190,000) and recruiting ($130,000)."
Friday, March 6, 2009
Lahaina News feature on the Warriors going to Maui
http://www.lahainanews.com/story.aspx?id=10066
About how the Warriors have a big fan base in Maui, Maui Mayor Charmaine Tavares said:
"There is a very loyal U.H. football fan base on Maui – there were a lot of home-based ’tailgate’ parties going on in my neighborhood on game day! This will be an exciting opportunity for our youth, as well as our entire community, to experience Warrior football action here on Maui, and I’m gratified that the county is able to help make this happen." (Lahaina News)
Happy to be able to bring the Warriors to Maui, JD said:
"We’re ’Hawaii’s Team,’ so we are thrilled that we’ve been able to partner with McDonald’s, Oceanic, Hawaiian Airlines, Panda Travel and the County of Maui in making this outreach initiative a reality. Without their support, we would never have been able to take our football team to Maui and have the opportunity to interact with U.H. fans on a Neighbor Island." (Lahaina News)
About how the Warriors have a big fan base in Maui, Maui Mayor Charmaine Tavares said:
"There is a very loyal U.H. football fan base on Maui – there were a lot of home-based ’tailgate’ parties going on in my neighborhood on game day! This will be an exciting opportunity for our youth, as well as our entire community, to experience Warrior football action here on Maui, and I’m gratified that the county is able to help make this happen." (Lahaina News)
Happy to be able to bring the Warriors to Maui, JD said:
"We’re ’Hawaii’s Team,’ so we are thrilled that we’ve been able to partner with McDonald’s, Oceanic, Hawaiian Airlines, Panda Travel and the County of Maui in making this outreach initiative a reality. Without their support, we would never have been able to take our football team to Maui and have the opportunity to interact with U.H. fans on a Neighbor Island." (Lahaina News)
WAC Commissioner Karl Benson seems to accept the BCS system
OS = Orlando Sentinel
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orl-sportsbcs06030609mar06,0,7183653.story
Accepting the BCS system, WAC Commissioner Karl Benson said:
"In the past year or two, when you really look at it in terms of value, five non-automatic teams were in position to earn a spot. The rules are the rules, and we understood the structure. You always want to have more, but sometimes you can't get everything you want." (OS)
Accepting the rules of the BCS even though Boise State lost out last season, Benson said:
"Is there disparity? Of course. Is it disappointing when Boise State finishes No. 8 and plays in a bowl that generates $200,000, when you see champions in the Big East ranked what they were and they get an $18 million paycheck? Of course. But that's why the existing rules are in place." (OS)
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orl-sportsbcs06030609mar06,0,7183653.story
Accepting the BCS system, WAC Commissioner Karl Benson said:
"In the past year or two, when you really look at it in terms of value, five non-automatic teams were in position to earn a spot. The rules are the rules, and we understood the structure. You always want to have more, but sometimes you can't get everything you want." (OS)
Accepting the rules of the BCS even though Boise State lost out last season, Benson said:
"Is there disparity? Of course. Is it disappointing when Boise State finishes No. 8 and plays in a bowl that generates $200,000, when you see champions in the Big East ranked what they were and they get an $18 million paycheck? Of course. But that's why the existing rules are in place." (OS)
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
UH Booster contribution projected to fall $350k short this year
About the $350k shortfall in the funds that the Athletic Department uses to underwrite room, board and books for scholarship athletes at UH, Vince Baldemore (president of Koa Anuenue) said:
"We're like anybody else (in a falling market)." (HA)
HA Note: "Because of the plummeting stock market, where much of the funds had initially been invested, UH says it expects to receive $3 million from Koa Anuenue, its umbrella booster organization, instead of the $3.35 million it had originally budgeted. The $350,000 hit, plus an anticipated $125,000 drop in what athletics expects to receive from its share of the Honolulu Stadium endowment, administered by the UH Foundation, contribute to what officials say could be an overall $3 million department deficit for the fiscal year that closes June 30."
HA Note: "Koa Anuenue, which has about 6,000 members, generates support for athletics through the sales of premium seating at events, ticket packages and parking. The money is invested and then turned over to the athletic department."
UH associate AD Carl Clapp said that Koa Anuenue (which has provided more than $30 million to athletics since it started):
"does an awesome job and has been doing it for many years." (HA)
HA Note: "When the stock market began to tumble last year, Koa Anuenue's investments were, "basically put into cash" to minimize the hit, Clapp said. Even with a 10 percent drop, Koa Anuenue has done better than many. The UH Foundation has reported a dip of more than 20 percent in its endowments through the end of 2008 and, on average, university endowment funds lost 23 percent between July 2008 and November 2008, according to reports citing the National Association of College and University Business Officers."
"We're like anybody else (in a falling market)." (HA)
HA Note: "Because of the plummeting stock market, where much of the funds had initially been invested, UH says it expects to receive $3 million from Koa Anuenue, its umbrella booster organization, instead of the $3.35 million it had originally budgeted. The $350,000 hit, plus an anticipated $125,000 drop in what athletics expects to receive from its share of the Honolulu Stadium endowment, administered by the UH Foundation, contribute to what officials say could be an overall $3 million department deficit for the fiscal year that closes June 30."
HA Note: "Koa Anuenue, which has about 6,000 members, generates support for athletics through the sales of premium seating at events, ticket packages and parking. The money is invested and then turned over to the athletic department."
UH associate AD Carl Clapp said that Koa Anuenue (which has provided more than $30 million to athletics since it started):
"does an awesome job and has been doing it for many years." (HA)
HA Note: "When the stock market began to tumble last year, Koa Anuenue's investments were, "basically put into cash" to minimize the hit, Clapp said. Even with a 10 percent drop, Koa Anuenue has done better than many. The UH Foundation has reported a dip of more than 20 percent in its endowments through the end of 2008 and, on average, university endowment funds lost 23 percent between July 2008 and November 2008, according to reports citing the National Association of College and University Business Officers."
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Under Armour sales of Warrior gear are doing well
Happy with the sales figures of their Warrior products, Walker Jones (director of sports marketing for Under Armour) said:
"We're extremely excited about the initial numbers, especially given what is going on with the state of the economy." (HA)
About UA, Mac said that:
"they sold a year's worth (of products) in the first five, six months." (HA)
HA Note: "Jones said the first year of an eight-year deal with UH, which began July 1, 2008, has been worth "the upper six figures, almost a million (dollars)" on logo wear alone. Jones said the company expected to do well but the "initial numbers have been a pleasant surprise. In addition, Jones said, sales of non-UH related Under Armour products have also done well. McNamara said, "they have been incredibly pleased and so have we." "
Comparing their Hawaii sales with their other partner schools like Auburn, South Carolina and Texas Tech, Jones said:
"Hawai'i has done very well for us. If you look, per capita, at the alumni base and population density, I'd have to say Hawai'i is right there among the top." (HA)
HA Note: "By contract, UH is guaranteed $125,000 in rights fees this year plus product allowances, marketing support and other extras collectively valued at $440,000. McNamara said Under Armour, which was contracted to provide $50,000 in marketing support to UH, has already committed $70,000. Jones said Under Armour felt there was an "untapped demand" here and UH football could be the "focal point" for the company."
About how there had been a worry about how well their UH products would sell, Sherry Nava (local retail sales representative for UA) said:
"The first item we put on the Web site, a polo shirt, sold out within two hours." (HA)
Mac said that the UA apparel has:
"been a hit with the team. The players love it. It (the relationship) has been even more than I could have expected." (HA)
"We're extremely excited about the initial numbers, especially given what is going on with the state of the economy." (HA)
About UA, Mac said that:
"they sold a year's worth (of products) in the first five, six months." (HA)
HA Note: "Jones said the first year of an eight-year deal with UH, which began July 1, 2008, has been worth "the upper six figures, almost a million (dollars)" on logo wear alone. Jones said the company expected to do well but the "initial numbers have been a pleasant surprise. In addition, Jones said, sales of non-UH related Under Armour products have also done well. McNamara said, "they have been incredibly pleased and so have we." "
Comparing their Hawaii sales with their other partner schools like Auburn, South Carolina and Texas Tech, Jones said:
"Hawai'i has done very well for us. If you look, per capita, at the alumni base and population density, I'd have to say Hawai'i is right there among the top." (HA)
HA Note: "By contract, UH is guaranteed $125,000 in rights fees this year plus product allowances, marketing support and other extras collectively valued at $440,000. McNamara said Under Armour, which was contracted to provide $50,000 in marketing support to UH, has already committed $70,000. Jones said Under Armour felt there was an "untapped demand" here and UH football could be the "focal point" for the company."
About how there had been a worry about how well their UH products would sell, Sherry Nava (local retail sales representative for UA) said:
"The first item we put on the Web site, a polo shirt, sold out within two hours." (HA)
Mac said that the UA apparel has:
"been a hit with the team. The players love it. It (the relationship) has been even more than I could have expected." (HA)
Monday, March 2, 2009
Feature on the decline of attendance at UH sporting events
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20090302/NEWS01/903020346/1001
About having season tickets for UH women's basketball games, Jennifer Shishido said (during a game where the turnstile count was 272 in the 10,300 seat Stan Sheriff Center):
"We go because the players work hard and they're good students." (HA)
About how her husband Norman likes to go to the games (which has had an attendance just above 200 for much of the season) with her, Jennifer said:
"He doesn't like crowds." (HA)
HA Note: "To be sure, the scene at the Sheriff last week was a far cry from the heyday of the program, when thousands of fans flocked to the arena to watch former coach Vince Goo's squads compete in the Women's National Invitational Tournament. On-court mediocrity and off-court controversy have taken a toll on the program's fan base, but the Wahine's declining attendance is hardly an isolated situation in the athletic department. According to university officials, attendance is down across the board in both men's and women's sports."
HA Note: "After a historic undefeated regular season and subsequent Sugar Bowl bid in 2007 — a community-galvanizing run that drew thousands of new fans to Aloha Stadium — the UH football program suffered a $1.2 million dropoff in ticket sales last season, generating a three-year low of $4.65 million in 2008. The Rainbow Wahine volleyball program, the department's only other revenue-generating sport, saw its attendance drop from 41,325 in 2007 to 33,691 last year, resulting in a decline of $55,000."
HA Note: "The athletic department generates about 85 percent of its $29.5 million operating budget. The balance comes from university general funds and is used for operation of lower campus facilities and scholarship support, according to UH."
About the mistakes made with the Athletic Department that have contributed to the poor financial state they are in now, UH sociology professor David Johnson said:
"It seems quite clear that the Herman Frazier hire was a disaster. But there are also a number of coaches who have not done very well and are not held accountable for poor performance."
About how JJ has some players with academic problems, David Johnson said:
"When (June Jones) was around, his teams would often do well on the field but there were a lot of problems in the classrooms. I found that to be a silent sacrifice that people were willing to accept, but I was frustrated being in the classroom with players who clearly were not into it." (HA)
About the botched handling of Sugar Bowl tickets, Johnson said:
"They covered it up until the media cornered them on it, and then they responded only grudgingly." (HA)
About the need for accountability throughout UH, Johnson said:
"Where's the accountability? My impression is that there are some pretty glaring areas where there is little or no accountability, but it's not limited to the department. It's that way throughout the university. People in positions of responsibility, whether it's the AD or the chancellor, the president of the university, have to pay attention and hold people accountable." (HA)
About UH's emphasis on athletics is a cause of concern, Johnson said:
"I am happy that UH tries to foster excellence in athletics. But the vast majority of UH students do not participate in intercollegiate athletics, and some of them have excellent academic potential. If this university's core mission is the pursuit of academic excellence, then why is it willing to bleed big money year after year after year for a small handful of student-athletes while at the same time making no serious commitment to cultivating the potential of its best and brightest undergraduates?" (HA)
HA Note: "The designated Manoa Maniacs section at athletic events is intended to promote student involvement and build a sense of campus community. At the UH-New Mexico state game, the section was occupied by a single Maniac — 22-year old biology major Tyler Law. Law was there to support his best friend, a cheerleader, but he was also happy to cheer on the Wahine."
About the poor turnout by the students, Tyler Law said:
"I'm usually the only student-student in the section." (HA)
HA Note: "Law said the drop in attendance for UH games could be due, in part, to a lack of "highlighted players." He said there was interest in last year's men's basketball team because it was Bob Nash's first year as head coach and Nash's son, Bobby, was part of the team."
About how the students don't know the players on the men's basketball team, Law said:
"This year, there's Bill Amis and ... who? You see the rest of them and it's like, 'I wonder who that is?' " (HA)
HA Note: "Law said the football program will always draw fans because, in the absence of pro teams, the Warriors are the team Hawai'i fans follow with the most enduring interest."
About how the fans will always come back to the Warriors, Law said:
"People might lose faith in them for a week or a day, but they'll be back in the stands the next year." (HA)
About how student interest and involvement in UH athletics is low because UH is a commuter school, Law said:
"The local students live in Pearl City or 'Aiea or the North Shore. Locals who go to UH aren't going to want to go to the games if they're home already, and the Mainlanders who live here aren't really into this school's sports because they're into the big name schools." (HA)
About how he continues to go to women's basketball games, Michael Little said:
"I come to support them because they play hard, although, it's obvious that they need a different coach." (HA)
About HF giving Bollla an extension, Little said:
"When there were problems with this team and Frazier gave Bolla a new contract, it was like he was saying he didn't care about women's basketball. I think they needed to change athletic directors, and they did, but it takes time to solve the old problems — just like in Washington." (HA)
About how UH teams get more attention because their are no pro teams in Hawaii, Little said:
"I have a lot of hope. I think UH sports should be a big success because there are no professional teams competing here. They get more attention than college teams in L.A. who have to compete with all those pro teams." (HA)
About how UH needs to do more to attract the young fans (who will bring their parents) to UH baseball games, UH fan David Nip said:
"If you give free tickets to Little League teams, they'll bring their parents and that means more sales at the concessions. It's not the attendance, it's the concessions. UH needs to start thinking more like a business. That's the main thing." (HA)
About how UH needs to hire the right coaches despite the limited salaries it can offer, Nip said:
"I'm old enough to understand that people come and go and there are always good and bad times. This is a small school and we don't have the money to hire the big-time coaches so try to hire the best coaches possible, hopefully local people who have a passion for Hawai'i. There are a lot of guys who come here who aren't local, but they become local. Stan Sheriff wasn't from here, but he became local. It's too early to judge (Donovan) but he's a Hawai'i guy, he has Hawai'i in his heart and he wants to be here. He's trying his best, and, remember, the deficit wasn't from him." (HA)
About how the fans in Hawaii will support the UH athletic department, Orry Collazo said:
"Even if we don't go to school here, the sports keep us connected. That's why we support whoever is trying to help this school and this program. As long as their trying to help this school and Hawai'i become greater, I'm all for it." (HA)
About having season tickets for UH women's basketball games, Jennifer Shishido said (during a game where the turnstile count was 272 in the 10,300 seat Stan Sheriff Center):
"We go because the players work hard and they're good students." (HA)
About how her husband Norman likes to go to the games (which has had an attendance just above 200 for much of the season) with her, Jennifer said:
"He doesn't like crowds." (HA)
HA Note: "To be sure, the scene at the Sheriff last week was a far cry from the heyday of the program, when thousands of fans flocked to the arena to watch former coach Vince Goo's squads compete in the Women's National Invitational Tournament. On-court mediocrity and off-court controversy have taken a toll on the program's fan base, but the Wahine's declining attendance is hardly an isolated situation in the athletic department. According to university officials, attendance is down across the board in both men's and women's sports."
HA Note: "After a historic undefeated regular season and subsequent Sugar Bowl bid in 2007 — a community-galvanizing run that drew thousands of new fans to Aloha Stadium — the UH football program suffered a $1.2 million dropoff in ticket sales last season, generating a three-year low of $4.65 million in 2008. The Rainbow Wahine volleyball program, the department's only other revenue-generating sport, saw its attendance drop from 41,325 in 2007 to 33,691 last year, resulting in a decline of $55,000."
HA Note: "The athletic department generates about 85 percent of its $29.5 million operating budget. The balance comes from university general funds and is used for operation of lower campus facilities and scholarship support, according to UH."
About the mistakes made with the Athletic Department that have contributed to the poor financial state they are in now, UH sociology professor David Johnson said:
"It seems quite clear that the Herman Frazier hire was a disaster. But there are also a number of coaches who have not done very well and are not held accountable for poor performance."
About how JJ has some players with academic problems, David Johnson said:
"When (June Jones) was around, his teams would often do well on the field but there were a lot of problems in the classrooms. I found that to be a silent sacrifice that people were willing to accept, but I was frustrated being in the classroom with players who clearly were not into it." (HA)
About the botched handling of Sugar Bowl tickets, Johnson said:
"They covered it up until the media cornered them on it, and then they responded only grudgingly." (HA)
About the need for accountability throughout UH, Johnson said:
"Where's the accountability? My impression is that there are some pretty glaring areas where there is little or no accountability, but it's not limited to the department. It's that way throughout the university. People in positions of responsibility, whether it's the AD or the chancellor, the president of the university, have to pay attention and hold people accountable." (HA)
About UH's emphasis on athletics is a cause of concern, Johnson said:
"I am happy that UH tries to foster excellence in athletics. But the vast majority of UH students do not participate in intercollegiate athletics, and some of them have excellent academic potential. If this university's core mission is the pursuit of academic excellence, then why is it willing to bleed big money year after year after year for a small handful of student-athletes while at the same time making no serious commitment to cultivating the potential of its best and brightest undergraduates?" (HA)
HA Note: "The designated Manoa Maniacs section at athletic events is intended to promote student involvement and build a sense of campus community. At the UH-New Mexico state game, the section was occupied by a single Maniac — 22-year old biology major Tyler Law. Law was there to support his best friend, a cheerleader, but he was also happy to cheer on the Wahine."
About the poor turnout by the students, Tyler Law said:
"I'm usually the only student-student in the section." (HA)
HA Note: "Law said the drop in attendance for UH games could be due, in part, to a lack of "highlighted players." He said there was interest in last year's men's basketball team because it was Bob Nash's first year as head coach and Nash's son, Bobby, was part of the team."
About how the students don't know the players on the men's basketball team, Law said:
"This year, there's Bill Amis and ... who? You see the rest of them and it's like, 'I wonder who that is?' " (HA)
HA Note: "Law said the football program will always draw fans because, in the absence of pro teams, the Warriors are the team Hawai'i fans follow with the most enduring interest."
About how the fans will always come back to the Warriors, Law said:
"People might lose faith in them for a week or a day, but they'll be back in the stands the next year." (HA)
About how student interest and involvement in UH athletics is low because UH is a commuter school, Law said:
"The local students live in Pearl City or 'Aiea or the North Shore. Locals who go to UH aren't going to want to go to the games if they're home already, and the Mainlanders who live here aren't really into this school's sports because they're into the big name schools." (HA)
About how he continues to go to women's basketball games, Michael Little said:
"I come to support them because they play hard, although, it's obvious that they need a different coach." (HA)
About HF giving Bollla an extension, Little said:
"When there were problems with this team and Frazier gave Bolla a new contract, it was like he was saying he didn't care about women's basketball. I think they needed to change athletic directors, and they did, but it takes time to solve the old problems — just like in Washington." (HA)
About how UH teams get more attention because their are no pro teams in Hawaii, Little said:
"I have a lot of hope. I think UH sports should be a big success because there are no professional teams competing here. They get more attention than college teams in L.A. who have to compete with all those pro teams." (HA)
About how UH needs to do more to attract the young fans (who will bring their parents) to UH baseball games, UH fan David Nip said:
"If you give free tickets to Little League teams, they'll bring their parents and that means more sales at the concessions. It's not the attendance, it's the concessions. UH needs to start thinking more like a business. That's the main thing." (HA)
About how UH needs to hire the right coaches despite the limited salaries it can offer, Nip said:
"I'm old enough to understand that people come and go and there are always good and bad times. This is a small school and we don't have the money to hire the big-time coaches so try to hire the best coaches possible, hopefully local people who have a passion for Hawai'i. There are a lot of guys who come here who aren't local, but they become local. Stan Sheriff wasn't from here, but he became local. It's too early to judge (Donovan) but he's a Hawai'i guy, he has Hawai'i in his heart and he wants to be here. He's trying his best, and, remember, the deficit wasn't from him." (HA)
About how the fans in Hawaii will support the UH athletic department, Orry Collazo said:
"Even if we don't go to school here, the sports keep us connected. That's why we support whoever is trying to help this school and this program. As long as their trying to help this school and Hawai'i become greater, I'm all for it." (HA)
Sunday, March 1, 2009
JD and Mac talked about UH's trip to Japan
About how he was with the 49ers and saw how Masafumi Kawaguchi drew a huge Japanese media contingent in his brief summer camp appearances, Mac said:
"You see what's happened in Seattle and Boston, and it makes you think of the possibilities." (HSB)
About trying to market UH during their trip to Japan, JD said:
"Even in hard times, you have to think long term. If we're going to be more than we are now, we have to expand beyond Hawaii. Look at what Notre Dame's done -- they're a national brand." (HSB)
"You see what's happened in Seattle and Boston, and it makes you think of the possibilities." (HSB)
About trying to market UH during their trip to Japan, JD said:
"Even in hard times, you have to think long term. If we're going to be more than we are now, we have to expand beyond Hawaii. Look at what Notre Dame's done -- they're a national brand." (HSB)
Punter Alex Dunnachie called the top punter in the US
Calling Dunnachie the best punter in the US, Rick Sang said:
"He's the top punter I've seen nationally. He's going to be a great one. He has natural power. He looks like a college tight end." (HA)
HA Note: "Sang is co-founder of the Ray Guy Academy for punters, kickers and long-snappers. Dunnachie, who is from Australia, has participated in two of Sang's camps."
About how Dunnachie has had several punts with hang times over 5 seconds, Sang said:
"That's amazing for an 18-year-old. He's got raw power." (HA)
About playing Australian rules football since he was 5, Dunnachie said:
"We kick it end over end, back spin, spirals." (HA)
Sang said that Australian punters can:
"do a lot more than American kids. It's like Tiger Woods and golf. They learn punting at 5 years old. If you're gifted with talent, you're blessed with the opportunity to train early." (HA)
HA Note: "Dunnachie played for a club and Marcellin College, which is a secondary school in Victoria. The father of Dunnachie's girlfriend received a brochure for a punting academy run by Nathan Chapman in Australia. Dunnachie enrolled in Chapman's program. Chapman then recommended Dunnachie to Sang. Dunnachie competed in the Ray Guy camp in Las Vegas. He currently is attending the camp in Walnut Creek, Calif."
About how Nathan Chapman referred Dunnachie to him, Sang said;
"Nathan is one of our former campers. He formed a program in Australia to identify talented punters. It's a joint venture. Nathan told me about him." (HA)
About how he didn't care about the interest he got from other schools because he wanted UH, Dunnachie said:
"I've always been one-tracked on Hawai'i. I can't pass up this opportunity. It's unbelievable." (HA)
Describing Hawaii, Dunnachie said it is:
"paradise. I'm not much of a surfer, but I love the water. I'm pretty laid back. Hawai'i is perfect for me." (HA)
HA Note: "Dunnachie earned his diploma from Marcellin in November. He said he met with UH officials, and believes he has met the requirements to play for the Warriors this year. Dunnachie and St. John Lessary, a Kahuku High senior who will join UH as a walk-on, will be the only two punters on the Warriors' 2009 roster."
HA Note: "UH has one available scholarship for a newcomer."
"He's the top punter I've seen nationally. He's going to be a great one. He has natural power. He looks like a college tight end." (HA)
HA Note: "Sang is co-founder of the Ray Guy Academy for punters, kickers and long-snappers. Dunnachie, who is from Australia, has participated in two of Sang's camps."
About how Dunnachie has had several punts with hang times over 5 seconds, Sang said:
"That's amazing for an 18-year-old. He's got raw power." (HA)
About playing Australian rules football since he was 5, Dunnachie said:
"We kick it end over end, back spin, spirals." (HA)
Sang said that Australian punters can:
"do a lot more than American kids. It's like Tiger Woods and golf. They learn punting at 5 years old. If you're gifted with talent, you're blessed with the opportunity to train early." (HA)
HA Note: "Dunnachie played for a club and Marcellin College, which is a secondary school in Victoria. The father of Dunnachie's girlfriend received a brochure for a punting academy run by Nathan Chapman in Australia. Dunnachie enrolled in Chapman's program. Chapman then recommended Dunnachie to Sang. Dunnachie competed in the Ray Guy camp in Las Vegas. He currently is attending the camp in Walnut Creek, Calif."
About how Nathan Chapman referred Dunnachie to him, Sang said;
"Nathan is one of our former campers. He formed a program in Australia to identify talented punters. It's a joint venture. Nathan told me about him." (HA)
About how he didn't care about the interest he got from other schools because he wanted UH, Dunnachie said:
"I've always been one-tracked on Hawai'i. I can't pass up this opportunity. It's unbelievable." (HA)
Describing Hawaii, Dunnachie said it is:
"paradise. I'm not much of a surfer, but I love the water. I'm pretty laid back. Hawai'i is perfect for me." (HA)
HA Note: "Dunnachie earned his diploma from Marcellin in November. He said he met with UH officials, and believes he has met the requirements to play for the Warriors this year. Dunnachie and St. John Lessary, a Kahuku High senior who will join UH as a walk-on, will be the only two punters on the Warriors' 2009 roster."
HA Note: "UH has one available scholarship for a newcomer."
Ferd gave a summary of some UH's problems under Herman Frazier
About the way HF left UH, Ferd wrote: "Not quite in the ways imagined or promised when Frazier was hired in 2002. Back then, UH President Evan Dobelle touted Frazier as, "a true American hero" and someone "who will do great things for this university, this state. Someone who can lead without limits." "
About the deficit under HF, Ferd wrote: "The school's Board of Regents were told of a $5.4 million accumulated deficit in the athletic department by an independent auditor, almost all of it acquired on Frazier's watch. Prior to his arrival in 2002, the athletic department had run at a surplus for at least six of the previous seven years.
Frazier's inability to run a solvent program, much less put away anything for a rainy day, has come back to haunt UH in these austere times. For the first time in decades UH has acknowledged that cutting a sport is a down-the-road possibility, though current athletic director Jim Donovan said it would only be as a desperation measure.
The loot from the Sugar Bowl, where Frazier made his last appearance as AD, allowed UH to avoid a deficit in his final fiscal year and pare down the accumulated red ink from $5.7 million."
About the Bolla situation, Ferd wrote: "Frazier raised eyebrows in 2004 when he hired Bolla, bringing the one-time Nevada-Las Vegas coach out of an eight-year separation from the college game to succeed Vince Goo. Then, three years into the deal, Frazier granted Bolla a four-year rollover scheduled to run through the 2010-11 season.
Now, for the second time in less than a year, UH is investigating allegations that Bolla mistreated a player. Because the Las Vegas Review Journal reported allegations concerning Bolla at UNLV in 1992 and 1996, you have to wonder what UH knew before Bolla was hired."
About how the 1.5 year delay in hiring Nash hurt recruiting, Ferd wrote: "Meanwhile, the struggling men's basketball program has suffered for the late date Bob Nash was selected to replace Riley Wallace. Despite Wallace's departure being mandated a year and a half before the 2006-07 season, Nash wasn't hired until April 13, 2007, well into the recruiting period and it cost UH on several prospects, players it was in the running for and could have used both last year and this season."
Ferd nicely summarized the problem HF got UH into: "Despite handing Frazier $312,510 in buy-out money, the controversies he left behind show UH is still paying handsomely for his term."
About the deficit under HF, Ferd wrote: "The school's Board of Regents were told of a $5.4 million accumulated deficit in the athletic department by an independent auditor, almost all of it acquired on Frazier's watch. Prior to his arrival in 2002, the athletic department had run at a surplus for at least six of the previous seven years.
Frazier's inability to run a solvent program, much less put away anything for a rainy day, has come back to haunt UH in these austere times. For the first time in decades UH has acknowledged that cutting a sport is a down-the-road possibility, though current athletic director Jim Donovan said it would only be as a desperation measure.
The loot from the Sugar Bowl, where Frazier made his last appearance as AD, allowed UH to avoid a deficit in his final fiscal year and pare down the accumulated red ink from $5.7 million."
About the Bolla situation, Ferd wrote: "Frazier raised eyebrows in 2004 when he hired Bolla, bringing the one-time Nevada-Las Vegas coach out of an eight-year separation from the college game to succeed Vince Goo. Then, three years into the deal, Frazier granted Bolla a four-year rollover scheduled to run through the 2010-11 season.
Now, for the second time in less than a year, UH is investigating allegations that Bolla mistreated a player. Because the Las Vegas Review Journal reported allegations concerning Bolla at UNLV in 1992 and 1996, you have to wonder what UH knew before Bolla was hired."
About how the 1.5 year delay in hiring Nash hurt recruiting, Ferd wrote: "Meanwhile, the struggling men's basketball program has suffered for the late date Bob Nash was selected to replace Riley Wallace. Despite Wallace's departure being mandated a year and a half before the 2006-07 season, Nash wasn't hired until April 13, 2007, well into the recruiting period and it cost UH on several prospects, players it was in the running for and could have used both last year and this season."
Ferd nicely summarized the problem HF got UH into: "Despite handing Frazier $312,510 in buy-out money, the controversies he left behind show UH is still paying handsomely for his term."
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