Although their overall record is under the .500 mark (5-6), Kamehameha- Maui provides a much tougher first-round matchup for Kaua’i (5-0-1), compared to last season’s contest against Pac-3. “This is not at all the same situation. This is a legitimate
Although their overall record is under the .500 mark (5-6), Kamehameha- Maui provides a much tougher first-round matchup for Kaua’i (5-0-1), compared to last season’s contest against Pac-3.
“This is not at all the same situation.
This is a legitimate team,” Kaua’i head coach Keli’i Morgado said.
The three-time defending KIF champion head coach also noted that Pac-3, who was in their first- firstyear of varsity football, was in the playoffs last year by default.
Two years ago, Kaua’i’s JV squad scrimmaged Kamehameha- Maui and some of the players are now varsity athletes.
“They have a tremendous defense with a lot of speed and athleticism. Their offense is very similar to Waimea. They’ll try to lull you to sleep with the run and then throw the ball,” Morgado said.
The Warriors, who are making their first-ever trip to the state tournament, got their first-ever varsity win on Sept. 10, against Pac-3, a 43-0 blowout.
Tailback Shane Kamakaokalani is their workhorse, with over 600 yards rushing this season.
Keahi Raikes also remains an offensive threat at quarterback.
Both offensive and defensive lines are anchored by Walter Kahaili’i (O-Line) and Bubba Kukahiko (D-Line).
Kaua’i battles the Warriors on Friday at Hanapepe Stadium, a place where the Red Raiders have seen much success.
“We’re 5-0 on that field. We have a better record there. We elevate our performance out of necessity (at Hanapepe Stadium),” Morgado said.
Last season, the Red Raiders ran past Pac-3 at Vidinha Stadium and fell in a close contest to the eventual division II state champion Campbell Sabers.
“Yeah, we learned a lot of lessons from that game. We just ran out of gas,” Morgado said.
Under then-quarterback Kekoa Crowell, Kaua’i’s offense flourished, along with speedy receiver Kevin Cadiente, but this year isn’t the same.
“It’s a different team this season.
We don’t score as easily on offense. We need to rely heavily on our defense.
I hope we represent the KIF well. It’s going to be a battle,” Morgado said.
The HHSAA/First Hawaiian Bank State Division II first-round game at Hanapepe Stadium starts at 7:30 p.m. on Friday.
The food booth is sponsored by Mark’s Place and Keoki’s Paradise.
Funds raised by the concessions will be used solely for the Kaua’i High School Red Raider football program.
The menu will feature roast pork bowl, saimin, pizza, hot dogs, Dippin’ Dots, and numerous beverages.
. Duane Shimogawa Jr., sports editor, may be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 257) or kauaisports@kauaipubco.com
