Sporting team colors, beads, banners and shakas, Kaua‘i’s University of Hawai‘i football fans came together yesterday at Vidinha Stadium in a show of their support for the Warriors. The team heads to Louisiana to play Georgia in the Sugar Bowl
Sporting team colors, beads, banners and shakas, Kaua‘i’s University of Hawai‘i football fans came together yesterday at Vidinha Stadium in a show of their support for the Warriors.
The team heads to Louisiana to play Georgia in the Sugar Bowl on Jan. 1.
“I wanted to do this to show the pride of Kaua‘i,” said Kenny Ishii, who organized the event. “Proud Kaua‘i, proud Hawai‘i, proud Warriors.”
Ishii said the Warriors competing in the Sugar Bowl is a once-in-a-lifetime event for everyone in Hawai‘i and he felt Kaua‘i should do something to support the team.
“We show our support because this is the one thing in a long time that has brought Hawai‘i together,” said Liz Hahn of Koloa.
Kapa‘a resident Dan Sanchez said confidently that although UH is considered the underdog, they will win. His friend, Edmund Bascual of Lihu‘e, agreed.
“We believe that’s their destiny,” he said. “The Sugar Bowl is our Super Bowl.”
Kurt Javinar of Hanama‘lu was at the stadium — not only to support the Warriors, but in support of his son, who is in his second year at UH, and his daughter, who just graduated. Although he has to work during the game, he will still be able to watch.
“I’m a bartender at the Marriott and they have a big-screen TV,” he said with a smile.
Former UH offensive line guard Bernard Carvalho Jr. came out in support for his old team.
“As a former Rainbow Warrior, I want to wish the team the best of luck from Kaua‘i and former UH players,” Carvalho said. “Bring home the trophy!”
Cathy Simao of Anahola wanted to remind the team that they will be in her prayers.
“We will be sending our prayers,” Simao said. “When you feel weary, remember the Lord is your strength.”
Many who aren’t going to Louisiana for the game will be throwing or attending Sugar Bowl parties. Ishii is no exception, saying he plans to have his own “Supa Bowl” party. “Whether they win or lose, we will all be proud,” he said.
UH fan Walton Nishioka — like countless others across the state — said he wishes the best as the Warriors go off to battle.
“Congratulations Warriors,” he said, giving the shaka. “Go, team, go, and good luck!”
• Rachel Gehrlein, staff writer, can be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 225) or rgehrlein@kauaipubco.com.
