First Team
OL Keith Lolofie, Marsh Valley: On either side of the ball, Lolofie was dominant for the Eagles. He served as the center on offense for Marsh Valley and consistently opened holes for running back Dylan Bybee to find. That allowed Bybee to unleash his breakaway speed and made the Eagles’ ground game one of the best in the area.
LB Dillon Filiaga, Highland: Filiaga wasn’t quite as dominant as Baker was, but he was pretty close. A quiet leader, Filiaga piled up 85 tackles and helped give the Rams one of the most dominant defenses in southeast Idaho.
DL Keith Lolofie, Marsh Valley: How dominant was Lolofie at defensive tackle? American Falls coach Pat Patterson called Lolofie the best player he’d seen all year, and the Beavers had to play 3A state champion Shelley in the playoffs. That’s pretty high praise.
Friday, January 01, 2010
Bakersfield All Area
First Team
Ioane Savai'i
Offensive lineman
Taft senior
6-foot-2, 310 pounds
Ioane Savai'i
Offensive lineman
Taft senior
6-foot-2, 310 pounds
The big bruiser helped pave the way for RB Cody Shirreffs’ record-breaking season, and even came in as a fullback late in the season.
Arduous path leads Daly City kid to Pasadena
With sleight of hand, quarterback Jeremiah Masoli works Oregon's spread offense like a magician. He tucks the ball near his running back's chest, then pulls it out - either to throw a pass or run.
Almost as amazing has been how the Samoan kid from Daly City rose to today's Rose Bowl matchup against Ohio State.
"Look where I am now," Masoli says proudly.
It's no magic trick. He got to where he is thanks to hard work and the guidance of his parents, Kennedy and Linda.
"It's been so exciting, from watching him play at City College of San Francisco to making our first trip to Oregon, and now we're going to Pasadena," Kennedy said. "It's been a lot of fun."
From a high school career cut short at Serra to leading City College to the national junior-college championship to being fifth-string at Oregon, Jeremiah hasn't settled.
"He's such a competitor, and he's always done what it takes to win," Kennedy said. "From doing extra in the weight room to his mental preparation."
And anyone who saw the 5-foot-11, 220-pound junior run over Oregon State safety Lance Mitchell on 4th-and-3 in the 37-33 win knows how tough he is.
But did you know that as a junior at Serra, Masoli once broke his collarbone during a game and didn't come out?
Linda shakes her head at that one. She learned a while back to deal with her son sacrificing his body against bigger defensive players.
"I am used to it now," she said. "I pray for his safety beforehand so I can enjoy the game. He does whatever it takes."
Getting into the game
Kennedy moved to Daly City in 1976 and works in hospitality and sales. Linda has a prepaid legal-help business. They have four kids: Elijah, Jeremiah, Mariah and Zach.
Jeremiah began playing guard and nose tackle in Pop Warner, getting his shot at quarterback when the starter couldn't get a ride to a game. A fifth-grader playing against seventh-graders, the tough-nosed runt ran for a touchdown and threw for one.
His grandfather and uncles were big baseball fans, and that is the direction Masoli was headed until he didn't make his high school baseball team. At that point, he turned to football, basketball and track and field with extra vigor.
He ran the 100 and 200 and threw the shot put for his track team and was a first-team all-state guard in basketball his senior year of high school in Hawaii.
Jeremiah and his father moved to Hawaii after he was expelled from Serra. He was pulled over in a car with another student who had just stolen a wallet, and all the kids in the car were kicked out of school. To this day, Linda says, Serra coach Patrick Walsh hasn't discussed the incident with Jeremiah.
"It was a very devastating situation," Linda said. "Not only was his high school athletic career over, but more importantly, his reputation was tarnished by this one bad decision. Jeremiah and his dad moved temporarily to Hawaii so that he could have a fresh start and finish his high school education."
Jeremiah doesn't like talking about that period of his life, but said, "I leaned on God and my parents, and I was raised to persevere through anything."
Tale of the tapes
Masoli returned to San Francisco to play at City College in 2007, and Rams coach George Rush should get to eat free anywhere in Oregon for what he did next. He sent unsolicited game tapes of Masoli to several colleges.
"We were very surprised," Linda said. "I think the tapes were sent out just to get his name out there for the next season. But Oregon and the other schools said please come and visit now."
Masoli chose Oregon over Arizona and Arkansas, but arrived on campus as the fifth-string quarterback with a wrist still sore from recent surgery. Coach Chip Kelly went as far as to call him a "color-thrower - he was just guessing, looking for somebody wearing green."
Masoli picked up the complicated playbook quickly and was the starter by Week 4. He even overcame being booed by the home fans against Stanford, later winning that game with a 74-yard drive in the final two minutes.
Less than two years after a mysterious package arrived in the mail at the Oregon football offices, Masoli has a 16-5 record as a starter.
Masoli has 18 touchdowns (11 passing) against three interceptions in six games since coming back from a knee injury this season. Still knocked at times for his accuracy, Masoli threw a perfect 8-yard touchdown pass between defenders to Ed Dickson to set up overtime in a 44-41 win at Arizona on Nov. 21.
"I'm really confident in our offense, the way we're moving, the pace of things," Masoli said.
He says he's ready for all the lights that will be on him today - with his proud family in the stands.
"Jeremiah's always said, 'Nothing's easy,' and he's worked very hard to fulfill his dream," Linda said.
E-mail Vittorio Tafur at vtafur@sfchronicle.com.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Dallas Morning News Newcomer of the Year
Ilaiu Moeakiola, Euless Trinity, DB, Soph.
Ht., Wt.: 6-0, 185
About Moeakiola: In his first varsity season, the safety started the last 14 games. His stellar play kept him in the lineup as he wreaked havoc from sideline to sideline. Moeakiola finished with 108 tackles, 15 pass breakups, one interception and one forced fumble. In Trinity's state title win, he had 10 tackles. Moeakiola's biggest play of the season, however, came in Trinity's state semifinal victory over Round Rock Stony Point. He tipped away a pass over the middle to clinch the Trojans' win.
What's next? Moeakiola will be one of four returning starters on defense for Trinity next season. His future is bright, and scholarship offers should begin to pour in next year.
RECENT WINNERS
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Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Shawn Lauvao To Play In East-West Shrine Game
Dec. 30, 2009
TEMPE, Ariz. - Arizona State University senior offensive lineman Shawn Lauvao has accepted an invitation to play in the 85th East-West Shrine Game, which will be held on Jan. 23, 2010 in Orlando. Lauvao will join Dexter Davis and Chris McGaha in the game.
Lauvao (Honolulu, Hawai'i) started all 12 games for the Sun Devils at left tackle in 2009.
Lauvao joins an elite list of football greats, such as John Elway, Tom Brady, Brett Favre and 62 Pro Football Hall of Famers, who have played in the East-West Shrine Game, America's longest-running college all-star football game.
Oregon's Jeremiah Masoli is the odd Duck
Jeremiah Masoli is the kind of quarterback college football loves and the National Football League recommends to the Toronto Argonauts.
Oregon's junior quarterback is everything the pro guys hate: 5 feet 11 and as fast as he is tall.
He sometimes throws off his wrong foot and has developed this fantastic/terrible habit of plowing people over.
"Running through somebody, there's no better feeling than that," Masoli said Tuesday.
Until you run into Ray Lewis.
Masoli's massive hair, held up by a rubber band, is first-round material -- it makes him look 6-3. From the neck down, though, he's probably a free-agent invite to training camp.
The fact Masoli has led Oregon to the Pacific 10 Conference title and a Friday date against Ohio State in the Rose Bowl, and that he might be the most exciting quarterback in college, is not reconcilable with his post-collegiate prospects.
Masoli laughed when asked Tuesday whether he had filed his paperwork for declaring early for the NFL draft.
Yes he had, but don't worry Oregon fans.
"I'm going to stay," he said.
The NFL may not quite be ready for Average Joe and his knee brace.
Masoli represents the big-tent beauty of the college game, where the talent disparity among 120 schools demands you find innovative ways to neutralize the playing field.
The 100 ways to win in college create opportunities and running lanes for maestros such as Masoli, and the sport is better (than the NFL) for it.
Tommie Frazier of Nebraska might have been the greatest college quarterback, leading Nebraska to two national titles. But he never made it to the league upstairs.
Charlie Ward won a national title and the Heisman Trophy at Florida State and went straight to . . . the NBA.
UCLA's Cade McNown was a dynamic dual-threat college quarterback and a bust in the NFL. John Sciarra directed UCLA to one of the great Rose Bowl upsets, over Woody Hayes' undefeated Ohio State team, and starred in the NFL on special teams.
The list is as long as a Rose Parade: Eric Crouch, J.C. Watts, Jamelle Holieway -- guys you paid to see Saturday but rarely Sunday.
"That is why I love college football," Oregon Athletic Director Mike Bellotti said.
The sport, sometimes, seems inside out.
Matt Cassel seldom played at USC but earned a starting job in the NFL.
Washington State's Ryan Leaf earned first-round millions because he was 6-6, had a rocket arm, and looked like a quarterback.
Jeremiah Masoli?
He set the standard for Ducks quarterbacks by leg-squatting 475 pounds.
Ohio State lost at home to USC this season on a game-winning drive led by freshman Matt Barkley, no doubt a future NFL draft choice.
Barkley, though, didn't put fear into the Buckeyes the way Masoli has.
"It's easier to play against a pro-style quarterback," Ohio State linebacker Austin Spitler said. "They're more predictable. They may have more of the mechanics for the pro game, but Masoli possesses so many threats. He blows my mind on film; he's just unbelievable."
Masoli is part thrower, dancer, fullback and magician, a player whose ball-handling skills have embarrassed defenders and union technicians.
True story: Before this year's USC game at Oregon, announcer Brent Musburger said he made a special trip to the production truck just to make sure the camera crew kept its lenses focused on Masoli.
It didn't work, as Masoli faked ABC out more than he did USC.
"One of our goals in the film room is to get the cameramen confused," Masoli joked.
Jim Heacock, Ohio State's defensive coordinator, wasn't amused as he tried to describe the challenge of containing Masoli.
"I wish I wasn't talking about this," Heacock said at one point. "I'm starting to sweat."
Nothing about Masoli's development has been conventional. He arrived at Oregon last year after playing only one year at City College of San Francisco. He figured to be in the mix to replace Oregon superstar Dennis Dixon, but a wrist injury relegated him to fifth string on the early depth chart. A series of injuries to Oregon quarterbacks eventually earned him a chance.
"I got my opportunity and ran with it," Masoli said.
He started 10 games as a sophomore, passing for 13 touchdowns, rushing for 718 yards and 10 scores, and capping the year by leading the Ducks to a Holiday Bowl win over Oklahoma State.
Masoli, breaking in a new line this year, had a rough opener at Boise State but eventually found his footing and Oregon's offense ended averaging 38 points.
"He's one of the greatest competitors I've seen," said Bellotti, who was Oregon's coach when Masoli was recruited. "He is truly unflappable."
Masoli, at 214 pounds, has been known to lead with his head. In last year's Holiday Bowl, he made the highlight reel by running over an Oklahoma State safety on his way to a touchdown.
In this year's Civil War game against Oregon State, Masoli clinched the Rose Bowl berth when, on fourth down, he plowed over safety Lance Mitchell for a first down.
"Man versus man," Masoli said. "I want to win that every time."
But is it any way to make a living?
"I definitely have to ask myself, 'Is it worth it?' " Masoli said.
Masoli grew up in the Bay Area, idolizing San Francisco 49ers star Steve Young, one of football's all-time great run-pass threats. Young, though, was bigger and faster.
Masoli knows the NFL isn't lining up to draft human fire hydrants, but he isn't giving up hope.
"Drew Brees doesn't fit the stereotype, either," Masoli said of the New Orleans Saints' 6-foot quarterback.
Who knows? The NFL is thinking more these days like the colleges with their "wildcat" use of running quarterbacks. It would be nice to be wrong about Masoli and, come two springs, see his name appear on somebody's NFL draft board.
But the truth is the truth.
"He might not get a look," Bellotti said.
So take a long look now.
Oregon's junior quarterback is everything the pro guys hate: 5 feet 11 and as fast as he is tall.
He sometimes throws off his wrong foot and has developed this fantastic/terrible habit of plowing people over.
"Running through somebody, there's no better feeling than that," Masoli said Tuesday.
Until you run into Ray Lewis.
Masoli's massive hair, held up by a rubber band, is first-round material -- it makes him look 6-3. From the neck down, though, he's probably a free-agent invite to training camp.
The fact Masoli has led Oregon to the Pacific 10 Conference title and a Friday date against Ohio State in the Rose Bowl, and that he might be the most exciting quarterback in college, is not reconcilable with his post-collegiate prospects.
Masoli laughed when asked Tuesday whether he had filed his paperwork for declaring early for the NFL draft.
Yes he had, but don't worry Oregon fans.
"I'm going to stay," he said.
The NFL may not quite be ready for Average Joe and his knee brace.
Masoli represents the big-tent beauty of the college game, where the talent disparity among 120 schools demands you find innovative ways to neutralize the playing field.
The 100 ways to win in college create opportunities and running lanes for maestros such as Masoli, and the sport is better (than the NFL) for it.
Tommie Frazier of Nebraska might have been the greatest college quarterback, leading Nebraska to two national titles. But he never made it to the league upstairs.
Charlie Ward won a national title and the Heisman Trophy at Florida State and went straight to . . . the NBA.
UCLA's Cade McNown was a dynamic dual-threat college quarterback and a bust in the NFL. John Sciarra directed UCLA to one of the great Rose Bowl upsets, over Woody Hayes' undefeated Ohio State team, and starred in the NFL on special teams.
The list is as long as a Rose Parade: Eric Crouch, J.C. Watts, Jamelle Holieway -- guys you paid to see Saturday but rarely Sunday.
"That is why I love college football," Oregon Athletic Director Mike Bellotti said.
The sport, sometimes, seems inside out.
Matt Cassel seldom played at USC but earned a starting job in the NFL.
Washington State's Ryan Leaf earned first-round millions because he was 6-6, had a rocket arm, and looked like a quarterback.
Jeremiah Masoli?
He set the standard for Ducks quarterbacks by leg-squatting 475 pounds.
Ohio State lost at home to USC this season on a game-winning drive led by freshman Matt Barkley, no doubt a future NFL draft choice.
Barkley, though, didn't put fear into the Buckeyes the way Masoli has.
"It's easier to play against a pro-style quarterback," Ohio State linebacker Austin Spitler said. "They're more predictable. They may have more of the mechanics for the pro game, but Masoli possesses so many threats. He blows my mind on film; he's just unbelievable."
Masoli is part thrower, dancer, fullback and magician, a player whose ball-handling skills have embarrassed defenders and union technicians.
True story: Before this year's USC game at Oregon, announcer Brent Musburger said he made a special trip to the production truck just to make sure the camera crew kept its lenses focused on Masoli.
It didn't work, as Masoli faked ABC out more than he did USC.
"One of our goals in the film room is to get the cameramen confused," Masoli joked.
Jim Heacock, Ohio State's defensive coordinator, wasn't amused as he tried to describe the challenge of containing Masoli.
"I wish I wasn't talking about this," Heacock said at one point. "I'm starting to sweat."
Nothing about Masoli's development has been conventional. He arrived at Oregon last year after playing only one year at City College of San Francisco. He figured to be in the mix to replace Oregon superstar Dennis Dixon, but a wrist injury relegated him to fifth string on the early depth chart. A series of injuries to Oregon quarterbacks eventually earned him a chance.
"I got my opportunity and ran with it," Masoli said.
He started 10 games as a sophomore, passing for 13 touchdowns, rushing for 718 yards and 10 scores, and capping the year by leading the Ducks to a Holiday Bowl win over Oklahoma State.
Masoli, breaking in a new line this year, had a rough opener at Boise State but eventually found his footing and Oregon's offense ended averaging 38 points.
"He's one of the greatest competitors I've seen," said Bellotti, who was Oregon's coach when Masoli was recruited. "He is truly unflappable."
Masoli, at 214 pounds, has been known to lead with his head. In last year's Holiday Bowl, he made the highlight reel by running over an Oklahoma State safety on his way to a touchdown.
In this year's Civil War game against Oregon State, Masoli clinched the Rose Bowl berth when, on fourth down, he plowed over safety Lance Mitchell for a first down.
"Man versus man," Masoli said. "I want to win that every time."
But is it any way to make a living?
"I definitely have to ask myself, 'Is it worth it?' " Masoli said.
Masoli grew up in the Bay Area, idolizing San Francisco 49ers star Steve Young, one of football's all-time great run-pass threats. Young, though, was bigger and faster.
Masoli knows the NFL isn't lining up to draft human fire hydrants, but he isn't giving up hope.
"Drew Brees doesn't fit the stereotype, either," Masoli said of the New Orleans Saints' 6-foot quarterback.
Who knows? The NFL is thinking more these days like the colleges with their "wildcat" use of running quarterbacks. It would be nice to be wrong about Masoli and, come two springs, see his name appear on somebody's NFL draft board.
But the truth is the truth.
"He might not get a look," Bellotti said.
So take a long look now.
Haloti Ngata named to Pro Bowl
DT Haloti Ngata (1st Pro Bowl – Starter)
Selected to his first-ever Pro Bowl, Ngata has been a staple on the defensive line by producing 40 tackles, 1.5 sacks, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery for Baltimore’s sixth-ranked run defense (96.1 yards per game). With Ngata’s help, the Ravens also rank first in average yards allowed per rush (3.5).
“I’ve been working so hard to be one of the best ever since I entered the NFL,” Ngata said. “This is unbelievably gratifying and a great honor. As a player in college, you just want to get to the league. If you’re fortunate enough to make it to this level, everyone then dreams of going to the Pro Bowl.
“Without the other D-lineman on our team, I wouldn’t be able to do the things I do,” Ngata added. “I’m thankful for guys like Kelly Gregg, who has taught me so much about technique and been a great role model. Trevor Pryce, Justin Bannan and Dwan Edwards have helped me grow, and they push me every day. Coach [Clarence] Brooks is somebody who makes me better and constantly demands the best out of me. None of this is possible without any of these guys, so that’s why this is a group award.”
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Highly Regarded Running Back Prospect—Joshua Quezada—Commits to Cougars
LAS VEGAS (Dec. 29, 2009) — After receiving official commitments earlier this month from the nation’s top prep quarterback and one of the best high school receivers in Texas, BYU head coach Bronco Mendenhall today announced that one of the top running backs in California—La Habra High School standout Joshua Quezada—has also signed a scholarship agreement to enroll at BYU in January.
Quezada joins Jake Heaps out of Skyline High School in Sammamish, Wash., and wide receiver Ross Apo out of the Oakridge School in Arlington, Texas, as high school seniors coming to Provo to begin college mid-year.
“Joshua is excited to come to BYU, and we are equally excited to have him join us,” Mendenhall said. “He embraces what our program is about on and off the field. He has the ability to be a very successful member of our team and help us continue to improve our program.”
A 5-foot-11, 210-pound running back out of La Habra High School in La Habra, Calif., Quezada rushed for 2,114 yards and 26 touchdowns and added 186 yards and two touchdowns as a receiver to lead the Highlanders to their third straight CIF-Southern Section Southwest Division Championship in 2009. He was named the 2009 Freeway League MVP, Daily News 2009 Football Player of the Year, and CIF-SS Southwest Division Offensive Player of the Year while earning back-to-back first-team All-Orange County honors as a senior. He averaged 8 yards per carry and 151 yards per game overall and accounted for 11.1 points per contest while leading La Habra to a 13-1 record.
Quezada not only put up big numbers during the season but also came through with his best performances during key games. Among the season’s many highlights, Quezada galloped for 304 yards and four touchdowns in a 35-21 semifinal victory over Cypress High School to advance to the championship game. He carried the Highlanders to the 2009 title by averaging 203.8 yards per game in four playoff contests.
As a junior in 2008, he ran for 1,680 yards on 163 carries and scored 21 touchdowns while adding 21 receptions for 318 yards and three touchdowns on the way to the 2008 CIF-SS title. He was first-team All-Orange County, first-team All-League and first-team All-CIF.
Quezada joins Jake Heaps out of Skyline High School in Sammamish, Wash., and wide receiver Ross Apo out of the Oakridge School in Arlington, Texas, as high school seniors coming to Provo to begin college mid-year.
“Joshua is excited to come to BYU, and we are equally excited to have him join us,” Mendenhall said. “He embraces what our program is about on and off the field. He has the ability to be a very successful member of our team and help us continue to improve our program.”
A 5-foot-11, 210-pound running back out of La Habra High School in La Habra, Calif., Quezada rushed for 2,114 yards and 26 touchdowns and added 186 yards and two touchdowns as a receiver to lead the Highlanders to their third straight CIF-Southern Section Southwest Division Championship in 2009. He was named the 2009 Freeway League MVP, Daily News 2009 Football Player of the Year, and CIF-SS Southwest Division Offensive Player of the Year while earning back-to-back first-team All-Orange County honors as a senior. He averaged 8 yards per carry and 151 yards per game overall and accounted for 11.1 points per contest while leading La Habra to a 13-1 record.
Quezada not only put up big numbers during the season but also came through with his best performances during key games. Among the season’s many highlights, Quezada galloped for 304 yards and four touchdowns in a 35-21 semifinal victory over Cypress High School to advance to the championship game. He carried the Highlanders to the 2009 title by averaging 203.8 yards per game in four playoff contests.
As a junior in 2008, he ran for 1,680 yards on 163 carries and scored 21 touchdowns while adding 21 receptions for 318 yards and three touchdowns on the way to the 2008 CIF-SS title. He was first-team All-Orange County, first-team All-League and first-team All-CIF.
MIL All Stars
One is the leader --- a sideline-to-sideline middle linebacker --- of a defense that took a big step in reigniting a once-proud program. The other is the unstoppable force --- a wide receiver --- that the entire league chased around without much success.
Maui High School's Kotoni Anitema and Baldwin's Ro Wilson --- Maui Interscholastic League Players of the Year for the 2009 football season.
While Anitema's presence for the Sabers was felt by opposing quarterbacks, ballcarriers and receivers with his crushing hits, Wilson's impact for the Bears was more measurable, with his 29 receptions for 547 yards and nine touchdowns --- all league bests by a wide margin in the eight-game season.
Wilson's touchdowns were perhaps where he stood out the most --- no other player had more than three touchdown grabs, and Wilson's mark is tied for the league's second-best in a single season, with Baldwin graduate Akamu Aki, behind the 16 touchdowns that current University of Utah receiver Chase Nakamura, also a former Bear, caught in 10 games in 2006.
Wilson was simply the most dangerous weapon on any offense in the MIL --- his 54 points also led the league, by 16. Perhaps his importance was best displayed in a game he missed --- Baldwin's 48-12 loss to Leilehua in the Division I state quarterfinals --- because of a school rules violation.
''How good? He is a great player now, he works hard, he has got the height, he has got the speed, he has got the hands,'' Baldwin coach A.J. Roloos said of the 6-foot-2, 180-pound junior. ''When you have got height like that, I mean, you just have to throw it up and let him go catch it --- and that is pretty much what we did this year.''
Wilson wears No. 81 because of what Randy Moss and Terrell Owens can do on the field.
''I see a little bit of Randy Moss in him,'' Roloos said of Wilson. ''He has got the height like Randy Moss and the long strides. He doesn't have the build like T.O., but he could have with some work in the weight room. He doesn't have the temper like T.O., he is a team player all the way. It is good he wants to be like them on the field.''
Indeed, Wilson was always quick to credit the Bears' quarterback --- first-team All-Star selection Brock Shishido --- and offensive line, from which
Sione Finau, Garrett Newton and Etuate Fineisaloi were named to the first team.
Roloos knows that after missing the state tournament and being the top target in the league this season, Wilson will be the Bear every team will try to stop in 2010.
''I talked to him and I told him, 'I hope you learned from it,' and he said, 'Coach, yeah, I learned from it,' '' Roloos said. ''We just have to move on, what is done is done. You can't turn back time, we can't go back and play Leilehua again. He just has to learn from here.''
Wilson said that he has turned toward the future after the violation that cost him the state tournament.
''The day I found out, I was really devastated,'' he said. ''I had to forget about it already and just move on. It was pretty hard to watch the game, but it just made me look forward to next year more.''
Asked if it has been a learning experience, he said simply: ''Yeah, a pretty big one.''
Wilson took the Player of the Year award, voted on by the MIL coaches, to heart.
''It makes me feel pretty good, it makes me feel like I am getting noticed more,'' he said. ''I want to play Division I in college. I think it was a pretty good season because I learned a lot for next year, but I am going to miss Brock a lot and the O-line guys.''
That D-I potential was shown clearly on a play during Baldwin's 24-21 win over Kamehameha Maui at Kanaiaupuni Stadium on Oct. 2. Wilson --- already with four catches for 84 yards --- lined up wide right, beat the defense on a hitch-and-go route and hauled in a 70-yard touchdown pass from Shishido with 1 minute, 22 seconds to play to provide the winning margin.
''That play showed exactly how good he can be,'' Roloos said.
Wilson, who grew up in Kalamazoo, Mich., as a Michigan State fan, is currently playing basketball for the Bears' defending league championship team, and will return to track and field as a hurdles standout and 6-3 high jumper in the spring --- as a 12-year-old, he went to the Maui County Hershey's track and field meet, tried the standing broad jump and eventually finished fourth in the nation in his age group.
The offensive first team is rounded out by running backs Charles Spencer (King Kekaulike) and Aaron Ross (Baldwin), receivers Cameron Yip (Kamehameha Maui) and Kekoa Turbeville (Kamehameha Maui), offensive linemen Teanu Rickard (Lahainaluna) and Octavio Tan (King Kekaulike), all-purpose player George Chihara (Lahainaluna) and special teamer Ceejay Santos (Baldwin).
While Baldwin is the five-time defending MIL Division I champion, crosstown rival Maui High entered the season on an 0-24-1 streak that stretched nearly three seasons back. The Sabers erased that skid with a 21-0 win over Waimea in a nonleague game and then opened MIL play with a 19-6 victory over Lahainaluna. Seven straight losses followed --- some close, some not --- but Maui High was markedly improved in 2009 after back-to-back 0-9 seasons.
The Sabers' defense was one of the top units in the league before a late-season dip in which it was forced to be on the field for long stretches. Maui High allowed an average of 256.6 yards per game --- fourth in the five-team MIL, just 63 more than league-leading Baldwin.
Anitema, a 6-0, 225-pound senior, was in the middle of it all for the Sabers, along with fellow first-teamers Sioeli Malafu (defensive line) and Siueli Vaha (defensive back).
Anitema did it while battling a shoulder injury throughout the season.
''I feel good, but I was shocked because I got injured, so I thought I wasn't going to be on it,'' he said. ''I didn't miss any games, but I had a hurt shoulder. I dove for a tackle in the Kamehameha game in the first round (Sept. 11) and it hurt the rest of the season. It slowed me down and I couldn't practice.''
The rest of the first-team defense comprises linemen Pasoni Tasini (Baldwin), Layson Hoewaa (Baldwin), Jaret Nahooikaika (Lahainaluna) and Elvis Kamana-Matagi (King Kekaulike), linebackers Chace Bolosan (Baldwin), Maave Emelio (King Kekaulike) and Mitchell Loewen (Lahainaluna) and defensive backs Paula Toa (Lahainaluna), Matsu Kahakauwila (King Kekaulike) and Fifita Tau (Baldwin).
Anitema was limited to contact in one or two practices per week after the injury, and the fact that he was hurt in the game that started the Sabers' seven-game losing streak to end the season doesn't seem to be a coincidence.
''It helped me want to hit more, so come game time I was into hitting because I couldn't hit in practice,'' he said.
Anitema said that coach Roderick Fong and his staff have made a big difference for the Sabers program.
''Coach Fong is a good coach, all the coaches are good coaches, especially our defensive coaches,'' Anitema said. ''I want to thank them. The defensive coaches helped me a lot.''
Fong said Anitema has epitomized the work in progress on the Kahului campus.
''Kotoni is an outstanding player,'' Fong said. ''He can be playing in the upper level. The thing about Kotoni is he played injured from the first game. It was a freak one where he just dove after a guy and got injured. I was planning to use him all over the place --- offense, defense, special teams. In that sense, I had to limit his role in and out of the season, but every game he was ready to play and that is all I can say about him. He is just a great football player; he played hurt all year.''
Fong drew consideration for coach of the year, but his nod tipped the scales in favor of Lahainaluna's staff, led by co-head coaches Garret Tihada and Bobby Watson. The Lunas were 6-2 in the league and 6-4 overall, both tied with the Bears for the top mark.
''After we beat them in that first game, I think the way they responded really says it all about their program,'' Fong said. ''They always improve over the course of the season.''
Vei Moala Nor Cal Preps Defensive POY
Grant's defense was showered with superlatives all season as it held opponents to just over five points per game through athleticism and size. The leader of this group was junior defensive tackle Vei Moala, who had 104 tackles, 17 sacks and four fumble recoveries this season. Moala was at points dominating inside and set-up the rest of the defense to win match-ups at all levels of the defense.
The 6-foot-3, 325 pound defensive tackle helped the Pacers extend their win streak to 26 games this year before they lost to Rocklin in the SJS Division II semi-finals.
Moala, the Sacramento Bee defensive player of the year, is the first defensive tackle to win the award since Derrick Hill of McClymonds in 2005.
The 6-foot-3, 325 pound defensive tackle helped the Pacers extend their win streak to 26 games this year before they lost to Rocklin in the SJS Division II semi-finals.
Moala, the Sacramento Bee defensive player of the year, is the first defensive tackle to win the award since Derrick Hill of McClymonds in 2005.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Thomas Molesi San Diego Section Player of the Year
Oceanside's Thomas Molesi was selected San Diego Section Defensive Player of the Year by the San Diego Union Tribune.Defensively, Oceanside’s Thomas Molesi led the Pirates to their sixth straight section title and second State Championship Bowl victory in three seasons.
When Oceanside needed Molesi toward the end of the Pirates’ 25-19 bowl victory over San Jose Bellarmine Prep, the senior was standing tall, harassing the quarterback.
No big deal except he had returned after slowly limping off the field with an injury in the first quarter.
“You couldn’t keep me out of there,” said Molesi, a 6-2, 280-pound two-way lineman who will attend Oregon State.
Molesi was one of six players who had been starters as sophomores when the Pirates won their first bowl game in 2007. He knew how important the moment was.
Molesi anchored a defensive line that allowed just 116 points in 14 games in helping extend Oceanside’s ’ unbeaten streak to a state-best 39 games.
First Team
Pos. Name School Ht. Wt. Yr.
DL Thomas Molesi Oceanside 6-2 280 Sr.
DL Kenny Galeai Oceanside 6-1 275 Sr.
LB Jake Fely Oceanside 5-10 215 Sr.
LB Ofisa Kose Vista 6-2 235 Sr.
LB Rene Siluano Oceanside 5-10 190 Sr.
Second Team
Pos. Name School Ht. Wt. Yr.
OL Markis Tokio Oceanside 6-0 250 Sr.
DL Sam Meredith Helix 6-4 250 Jr.
DL Ian Seau La Costa Canyon 6-4 240 Jr.
LB J.J. Taele El Camino 5-11 205 Sr.
LB Thomas Tutogi Chula Vista 6-0 240 Sr.
All Arizona
Mesa linebacker Tony Vaitafa (6'2, 195, Jr) was selected first team all state by the Arizona Republic. Vaitafa was also selected first team all state (5A). Junior defensive lineman Aulelio Olomua (6'5, 235) of Red Mesa (Teec Nos Pos) was selected first team all state (3A, 2A, 1A). Olomua's older brother Bristol played at BYU and Texas Tech.
Charles Perkins All State Georgia
Running back Charles Perkins of Collins Hills (Suwanee) was selected first team All Georgia (AAAAA) by the Atlanta Constitution-Journal and the Associated Press. He was also selected Honorable Mention All State by the Georgia Sportwriters Association. Perkins is a verbal commit to Georgia Tech.
Examiner All Area
A handful of Samoans have been selected All Area by The Examiner (Independence, Blue Springs, Grain Valley, MO)
First Team
DL Brandon Augafa William Chrisman sr. 6-1 260 76 tackles, All-Suburban Big Six
DL Tony Tanumai Fort Osage so. 5-10 230 70 tackles, 4.5 sacks, six forced fumbles, Class 5 all-state.
OL Vise Tialino William Chrisman sr. 5-10 280 First-team All-Big Six, led way for 1,415-yard rusher.
Second Team
OL Pete Tanuvasa William Chrisman jr. 5-11 240
LB Jay Nu’u Truman sr. 5-11 240
First Team
DL Brandon Augafa William Chrisman sr. 6-1 260 76 tackles, All-Suburban Big Six
DL Tony Tanumai Fort Osage so. 5-10 230 70 tackles, 4.5 sacks, six forced fumbles, Class 5 all-state.
OL Vise Tialino William Chrisman sr. 5-10 280 First-team All-Big Six, led way for 1,415-yard rusher.
Second Team
OL Pete Tanuvasa William Chrisman jr. 5-11 240
LB Jay Nu’u Truman sr. 5-11 240
Nevada All State
Nevada All State Football Team
First Team
WR Eric Tuiloma Desert Pines (Las Vegas) 5'11, 200, Sr
45 rec., 817 yds., 11 TD, Northeast Offensive Player of the Year
LB William Purcell Legacy (Las Vegas) 6'0, 230, Sr
137 tackles, Northwest Defensive Player of the Year
LB Samson Toalei Liberty (Henderson) 5'11, 215, Sr
159 tackles, 4 sacks, 3 INT, Southeast Defensive Player of the Year
Second Team
OL Tuli Fakauho Liberty (Henderson) 6'1, 320, Jr
Led team in pancakes
LB Evan Palelei Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas) 6'2, 222, Sr
72 tackles, 7 sacks, 13 TFL
DB Eric Tuiloma Desert Pines (Las Vegas) 5'11, 200, Sr
50 tackles, 6 INT
First Team
WR Eric Tuiloma Desert Pines (Las Vegas) 5'11, 200, Sr
45 rec., 817 yds., 11 TD, Northeast Offensive Player of the Year
LB William Purcell Legacy (Las Vegas) 6'0, 230, Sr
137 tackles, Northwest Defensive Player of the Year
LB Samson Toalei Liberty (Henderson) 5'11, 215, Sr
159 tackles, 4 sacks, 3 INT, Southeast Defensive Player of the Year
Second Team
OL Tuli Fakauho Liberty (Henderson) 6'1, 320, Jr
Led team in pancakes
LB Evan Palelei Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas) 6'2, 222, Sr
72 tackles, 7 sacks, 13 TFL
DB Eric Tuiloma Desert Pines (Las Vegas) 5'11, 200, Sr
50 tackles, 6 INT
Sonny Puletasi All State Oklahoma
Sonny Puletasi learned a lesson during Lawton High's 8-2 regular season — hard work pays off. Puletasi had 12 sacks and 100 tackles for the Wolverines this year, a mark that earned him a spot on the Oklahoman's 2009 All-State team. "It was much better than the year before," Puletasi said. "We improved a lot and I think we shocked a lot of people. That was enough for me. It meant a lot to win those games and have success."
Puletasi earned more recognition for his efforts than just an All-State nod. Next fall he'll head to the University of Wyoming to play football, the culmination of a dream to play Division I football, even if it was at one of the most unlikely of locations. "It was my first offer and I got excited about it," Puletasi said. "I was looking through their website the first day they called me and it was nice. My dad talked to some of the staff and he liked them. It just fit together."
Puletasi hopes to take some of the positives from this year with him to Laramie when practices begin next August. "I got better as a leader," he said. "Last year I didn't even know about leadership. This year I went through a lot with my teammates. Summer workouts and pre-season workouts and I learned a lot."
Puletasi hopes to take some of the positives from this year with him to Laramie when practices begin next August. "I got better as a leader," he said. "Last year I didn't even know about leadership. This year I went through a lot with my teammates. Summer workouts and pre-season workouts and I learned a lot."
First Team All State-The Oklahoman
SONNY PULETASI LAWTON Class: Senior Position: Defensive line College choice: Wyoming This season: Puletasi had to be accounted for on every snap. He had 100 tackles and 12 sacks, but that’s only half the story. He also blocked five punts and an extra point, and coach Randy Breeze said Puletasi is one of the best leaders he’s coached. What is your hidden talent?: Playing piano.
Oregon All State Team
Jefferson High's (Portland) Saia Kofe was selected first team all state (5A) at both guard and defensive line. Teammate Josh Tonga was selected first team at the tackle position. Lake Oswego Cole Naone linebacker was a second team all state (6A) selection.
Honorable Mention selections
5A
Honorable Mention selections
6A
DL Timote Pongi (Westview, Portland)
DL Matt Tanuvasa (Southridge Beaverton)
Link to Oregonian 6A Team
5A
QB Noa Aluesi (Jefferson Portland)
OG/DL James Atoe (The Dalles-Wahtonka) selected as both offensive and defensive lineman
LB EC Unga (Jefferson Portland)
DL Isaac Seumalo (Corvallis)
Maika Polamalu All-Area
Maika Polamalu was selected first team all area by The Mercury (serving Pottstown, PA and The Tri County area). The junior is likely to be an all state selection.
Maika Polamalu, Pottsgrove Running Back … Junior, 6-0, 210
Carried 166 times for 1,441 yards, second only OJR's Ryan Brumfield … Averaged an area-high 8.7 yards per carry … Finished with 18 touchdowns and 112 points overall … Also played outside linebacker, helping the Falcons to their second straight PAC-10 title and first District 1-AAA championship … All PAC-10 selection.
Maika Polamalu, Pottsgrove Running Back … Junior, 6-0, 210
Carried 166 times for 1,441 yards, second only OJR's Ryan Brumfield … Averaged an area-high 8.7 yards per carry … Finished with 18 touchdowns and 112 points overall … Also played outside linebacker, helping the Falcons to their second straight PAC-10 title and first District 1-AAA championship … All PAC-10 selection.
Fort Worth Star Telegram Super Team
Tongans Ross Apo and Isikeli Cocker to the Fort Worth Star Telegram's Super Teams Offense
WR Ross Apo, Arlington Oakridge, Sr.
Had big play written all over him. Averaged 23.6 yards per catch, with a touchdown every third time he caught the ball.
OL Isikeli Cocker, Euless Trinity, Sr.
The only returning starter on the Trojans line. Quickly became an example setter and a key reason the unit became stronger every week.
WR Ross Apo, Arlington Oakridge, Sr.
Had big play written all over him. Averaged 23.6 yards per catch, with a touchdown every third time he caught the ball.
OL Isikeli Cocker, Euless Trinity, Sr.
The only returning starter on the Trojans line. Quickly became an example setter and a key reason the unit became stronger every week.
SF Chronicle All Metro
First Team
DL Sione Tupouata Fremont (Oakland) 6'4, 250, Sr
OAL MVP led Fremont to first Silver Bowl title.
Second Team
OL Daniel Musika Milpitas 5'11, 270, Sr
SCVAL's outstanding OL, led Milpitas to CCS Crown
DL Toni Pole James Logan (Union City) 6'3, 275, Sr
Also a TE, Pole required constant double teams
LB Eric Tuipulotu Serra (San Mateo) 5'11, 205, Sr
Recorded 159 tackles in Metro Area's toughest league.
LB Maki Musika Milpitas 6'1, 245, Sr
Another in long line of standout Milpitas LBs.
DB Makana Garrigan Casa Grande 5'10, 180, Jr
Had 117 tackles, Metro Area-best 11 interceptions.
Honorable Mention
RB Pat Ale Galileo (San Francisco) Sr
LB Sam Atoe Maria Carillo (Santa Rosa) Jr
OL/DL Jovesa Cakau Lincoln (San Francisco) Sr
OL/DL Shawn Numera Galileo (San Francisco) Sr
DL Sione Tupouata Fremont (Oakland) 6'4, 250, Sr
OAL MVP led Fremont to first Silver Bowl title.
Second Team
OL Daniel Musika Milpitas 5'11, 270, Sr
SCVAL's outstanding OL, led Milpitas to CCS Crown
DL Toni Pole James Logan (Union City) 6'3, 275, Sr
Also a TE, Pole required constant double teams
LB Eric Tuipulotu Serra (San Mateo) 5'11, 205, Sr
Recorded 159 tackles in Metro Area's toughest league.
LB Maki Musika Milpitas 6'1, 245, Sr
Another in long line of standout Milpitas LBs.
DB Makana Garrigan Casa Grande 5'10, 180, Jr
Had 117 tackles, Metro Area-best 11 interceptions.
Honorable Mention
RB Pat Ale Galileo (San Francisco) Sr
LB Sam Atoe Maria Carillo (Santa Rosa) Jr
OL/DL Jovesa Cakau Lincoln (San Francisco) Sr
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Stockton Record All-Area Football Team
First Team
TIGHT END
Foloi Vae, Edison senior
Primarily a blocker, the 6-2, 240 Vae was one of three TCAL co-top offensive linemen. He finished with 14 catches for 183 yards and three touchdowns.
Second Team
LB-George Mafi, St. Mary's
Honorable Mention
LB-T.J. Sataua, Sierra
TIGHT END
Foloi Vae, Edison senior
Primarily a blocker, the 6-2, 240 Vae was one of three TCAL co-top offensive linemen. He finished with 14 catches for 183 yards and three touchdowns.
Second Team
LB-George Mafi, St. Mary's
Honorable Mention
LB-T.J. Sataua, Sierra
Modesto Bee All District Football Team
First Team
Wasn’t a more feared linemen in the MMC, as he used his weight (280 pounds) and surprising quickness to shoot gaps and disrupt offenses. He was agile enough to play fullback, as well, but Hosea was at his best when chasing QBs and drilling runners.
Second Team
LB TJ Sataua Sierra 5'11, 210, Sr
LB TJ Sataua Sierra 5'11, 210, Sr
All East Bay Football Team
First Team
OL – Sione Maile, San Leandro
DL – Sione Tupouata, Fremont
Second Team
DL – Toni Pole, James Logan
Third Team
OL – Sinilau Tauteoli, Fremont
OL – Freddie Tagaloa, Salesian
DL – Cedric Lousi Washington
DL – William Fukofuka San Lorenzo
LB – Aoese Noa San Lorenzo
OL – Sione Maile, San Leandro
DL – Sione Tupouata, Fremont
Second Team
DL – Toni Pole, James Logan
Third Team
OL – Sinilau Tauteoli, Fremont
OL – Freddie Tagaloa, Salesian
DL – Cedric Lousi Washington
DL – William Fukofuka San Lorenzo
LB – Aoese Noa San Lorenzo
Gotta hand it to Ho
The demeanor never changes.
Back against the wall after an early-season loss to 'Iolani, Ryan Ho said flatly, but precisely, "This is do or die."
After a state-title run and news that coaches and media voted him the Star-Bulletin offensive player of the year, he was equally deadpan.
"There's other people that deserve it too, but it wasn't our choices. I didn't go into the season thinking I'll win this award," said Ho, who had 1,530 rushing yards (6.7 per carry) and 19 touchdowns. "I just do what our team needed me to do."
After the loss to 'Iolani, Kamehameha's prolific, durable running back called it like it was.
"The loss was pretty good for us. It snapped us into reality. We needed a wake-up and not take days off," Ho said.
The Warriors responded, banking on the 5-foot-6, 175-pound senior for pile-moving yardage between the tackles and breakaway runs on the perimeter.
Starting with a 28-10 win over defending state champ Punahou, Kamehameha kept handing the ball to Ho and won nine games in a row, including a 34-21 victory over Kahuku in the final.
Kamehameha's defense was air-tight, to no surprise. The passing game, though, was a work in progress from the start. Carrying the Warriors from Point A to Point B was Ho, who was consistent and always knew exactly where the first-down marker was. Often facing stacked defenses, he never had less than 94 rushing yards in a game.
Kamehameha's offense didn't record a 200-yard passing game until Oct. 9. To that point, Ho had 785 yards and nine touchdowns in six games. After quarterback T.C. Campbell caught fire, Ho was still highly productive, amassing 745 yards and 10 touchdowns in the last six games.
That included 147 yards and two touchdowns against Saint Louis; 153 yards against Punahou; 107 yards and a touchdown against Leilehua; and 121 yards and two scores against Kahuku.
Ho credited the offensive line.
"They improved from last year, more as one unit this year. Last year was a couple of standout guys. This year everybody worked together," he said.
"Props to the whole team and coaching staff. It wasn't a single character; we relied on our offense, defense and special teams every single game."
FIRST TEAM
Micah HatchieWaialua, OL, Sr.
Ht.: 6-5 Wt.: 275
Possibly best lineman in Bulldog history; committed to Washington
Joseph Siliga
Farrington, OL, Sr.
Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 260
Co-captain and left tackle anchored a bulldozing line
Jiniki Timoteo
Leilehua, OL, Sr.
Ht.: 6-3 Wt.: 300
Left guard overcame head injury for a stellar senior season
Jamal Napeahi
Kahuku , OL, Jr.
Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 265
Center was a key piece of Kahuku's transition to more balance
Lindon Kahana
Farrington, OL, Sr.
Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 300
Veteran center helped RB Tuimaseve lead state in rushing
Shaydon Kehano
Castle, WR/R, Sr.
Ht.: 5-11 Wt.: 165
68 catches, 1,150 yards, 19 TDs, including 11 catches vs. Kahuku
London Amorin
Pac-Five, WR, Sr.
Ht.: 5-11 Wt.: 170
101 catches, 1,653 yards, 20 TDs; 141 yards, 2 TDs vs. Kamehameha
Kamana Akagi
Leilehua, WR, Sr.
Ht.: 5-9 Wt.: 170
74 catches, 1,093 yards, 13 TDs; 8 catches, 124 yards vs. Farrington
Harry Tuimaseve
Farrington, RB, Sr.
Ht.: 5-10 Wt.: 175
1,786 yards, 5.9 ypc, 15 TD, state-high 301 carries; 258 yards vs. Honokaa
Andrew Manley
Leilehua, QB, Sr.
Ht.: 6-3 Wt.: 220
3,099 yards, 137.8 rating, 28 TDs, 11 INT; committed to NMSU
Dalaunte Stevenson Mililani, AP, Sr.
Ht.: 6-2 Wt.: 190
"Taz'' a threat as RB, WR, returner and safety; committed to Washington
Cameron Mercado
Kahuku, K, Sr.
Ht. 6-0, Wt. 170
12 FGs, long of 49 yards; 49-for-50 PATs; huge weapon on kickoffs
SECOND TEAM | |||||
| Player | School | Pos. | Cl.. | HT. | WT. |
| Jordan DeCorte | Kailua | OL | Sr. | 6-3 | 290 |
| Steven Siilata | Kahuku | OL | Jr. | 6-0 | 250 |
| Graham Rowley | Waialua | OL | Sr. | 6-4 | 270 |
| Jase Toomalatai | Kahuku | OL | Sr. | 6-1 | 280 |
| Shane Brostek | Hawaii Prep | OL | So. | 6-3 | 300 |
| Trevyn Tulonghari | 'Iolani | WR | Jr. | 6-1 | 180 |
| Duke Bukoski | Saint Louis | WR | Jr. | 5-11 | 175 |
| Jordan Fukumoto | Saint Louis | WR | Sr. | 5-9 | 155 |
| Keoni Napierala-Rose | Waianae | RB | Sr. | 6-0 | 205 |
| Tahje Canyon | Moanalua | RB | Sr. | 5-9 | 176 |
| P.J. Minaya | Pac-Five | QB | Sr. | 5-10 | 150 |
| Garrett Paredes | Castle | AP | Sr. | 5-8 | 200 |
| Andrew Skalman | 'Iolani | K | Sr. | 5-9 | 150 |
| Solomon Dixon | McKinley | R | Jr. | 5-9 | 142
|
THIRD TEAM | |||||
| Player | School | Pos. | Cl. | HT. | WT. |
| Frank Loyd | Moanalua | OL | Sr. | 6-3 | 253 |
| Michael Ansagay | Waipahu | OL | Jr. | 5-9 | 262 |
| Bronson Smithe | Leilehua | OL | Sr. | 5-11 | 235 |
| Blaze Ryder | Kamehameha | OL | Sr. | 5-11 | 240 |
| Kaiwi Crabb | Punahou | OL | Sr. | 6-5 | 272 |
| Kevin Barayuga | 'Iolani | WR | Jr. | 5-8 | 150 |
| Ro Wilson | Baldwin | WR | Jr. | 6-2 | 170 |
| Blaise Cuban | Kamehameha | WR | Sr. | 5-8 | 160 |
| Victor Moananu | Waipahu | RB | Sr. | 5-8 | 177 |
| Clinton Aina | Kailua | RB | Sr. | 5-10 | 185 |
| Jarrett Arakawa | 'Iolani | QB | Sr. | 6-0 | 180 |
| Awa Poggi | Word of Life | AP | Jr. | 5-8 | 150 |
| Kaimi Fairbairn | Punahou | K | So. | 5-10 | 160 |
| Alvin Faamausili | Farrington | R | Sr. | 6-1 | 170 |
Journey fulfills Jamora
On the outside, he was a self-described "fat boy" whose mother wouldn't let him play Pop Warner football.
Inside? Hauoli Jamora grew up watching Kahuku football, vowing one day to play for the Red Raiders.
But the optimistic kid found himself relocating from Hauula to California. After moving back to Oahu -- "I was begging my mom about Kahuku," he said -- they returned to Hauula for a short time.
Then came a move to Pearl City, and Jamora's dream wouldn't die. In fact, he spent his sophomore year catching the bus from Pearl City to Kahuku, getting to the bus stop at 5 a.m., transferring in Haleiwa and arriving at school after 7. Then came wrestling practices after school, then another long haul back to Pearl City.
Jamora hadn't even played a down of football for Kahuku, but he was content. Within two years, Jamora transformed into one of the state's top recruits.
His eye-popping performances wowed coaches and media, who in turn voted Jamora the Star-Bulletin defensive player of the year.
Kahuku's defense was particularly effective, a 3-4 system that put Jamora's strength and quickness to good use. Whether it was long fumble returns for touchdowns or blocked punts in the end zone, Jamora's motor never slowed.
It all came because he wouldn't stop working.
"The explosiveness, that came through the extra work we put in. The weight room, the running, everything," said Jamora, who moved to Laie by his junior year, living with his grandmother, Leona Kulesa.
Once a 5-foot-10, 180-pound eighth-grader, Jamora is now 6-3 and 235 pounds, widely recruited and solidly qualified. His 3.3 grade-point average opened doors: Arizona, Boise State, BYU, Hawaii, Oregon State, Washington and Wyoming have scholarship offers on the table.
The state final loss to Kamehameha still stings, especially when he recalls the missed tackle on a scramble by Warriors quarterback T.C. Campbell on a key third and long. But there are no regrets about all the miles and sweat. He's taken what he's learned from Reggie Torres -- his football, wrestling and judo coach -- to heart.
"There's always hype," Jamora said, "but humility is something we all need."
FIRST TEAM
Landon AanoKamehameha, DT, Sr.
Ht.: 5-9 Wt.: 285
One of state's top sackers, strong penetration inside, unending motor
Seali'i Epenesa
'Iolani, DT, Sr.
Ht.: 6-2 Wt.: 315
Raiders defense limited foes to 2.8 yards per carry
Charley Tua'au
Leilehua, DE, Sr.
Ht.: 6-4 Wt.: 290
Force in Mules' defense with combination of strength, speed
Jeremy Ioane
Punahou, LB, Sr.
Ht.: 5-11 Wt.: 195
Savvy, quick playmaker, goes sideline to sideline for an elite defense
Ben Mamea
Kahuku, LB, Jr.
Ht.: 5-11 Wt. 200
Tremendous instincts vs. run; Kahuku allowed 1.4 yards/carry
Kawika Stant
Kamehameha, LB, Jr.
Ht.: 5-10 Wt.: 205
Middle of Warriors' defensive storm; unit permitted less than 1 yard/carry
Chaz Bajet
Kamehameha, CB, Sr.
Ht.: 5-8 Wt.: 170
Lockdown cover man had eight of his team's 22 interceptions
Alvin Faamausili
Farrington, CB, Sr.
Ht.: 6-1 Wt.: 170
Swarming defender; also a lethal weapon as returner and receiver
Brian Suite
Punahou, S, Sr.
Ht.: 6-3 Wt.: 188
A dominant force on deep coverage, sure tackler against the run
Marcus Umu
Saint Louis, S, Sr.
Ht.: 5-11 Wt.: 180
Physical and punishing, solid coverage in backfield
Fred Padrones Leilehua, P, Jr.
Ht.: 5-7 Wt.: 160
Most consistent and deep punter
David Stant
Kamehameha
Coach of the year
Demanded great commitment in offseason, preseason, yielding title
SECOND TEAM | |||||
| Player | School | Pos. | Cl. | HT. | WT. |
| Kaena Moose | 'Iolani | DT | Sr. | 6-1 | 270 |
| Eleu Wilson | Waianae | DT | Sr. | 6-1 | 315 |
| Beau Yap | Kamehameha | DE | Sr. | 6-2 | 235 |
| Kona Schwenke | Kahuku | DE | Sr. | 6-4 | 220 |
| Zachary Quines | Mililani | LB | Sr. | 6-3 | 215 |
| T.J. Tito | Kahuku | LB | Jr. | 5-10 | 195 |
| Chivas Paris | Waianae | LB | Sr. | 6-0 | 200 |
| Johnny Tupuola | Kahuku | CB | Sr. | 5-10 | 162 |
| Walter Santiago Jr. | Kamehameha | CB | Jr. | 5-10 | 150 |
| Wave Ryder | Kamehameha | S | Sr. | 6-2 | 185 |
| Sean McFadden | Punahou | S | Sr. | 6-1 | 190 |
| Trevyn Tulonghari | 'Iolani | P | Jr. | 6-1 | 180 |
THIRD TEAM | |||||
| Player | School | Pos. | Cl. | HT. | WT. |
| Veteson Sauni | Kahuku | DT | Sr. | 6-0 | 285 |
| Keith Chargualaf-Tuilaepa | Farrington | DT | Sr. | 5-10 | 280 |
| Koa Ka'ai | Kamehameha | DE | Jr. | 6-4 | 235 |
| V.J. Fehoko | Farrington | DE | Sr. | 6-0 | 210 |
| Justin Vele | Farrington | LB | Jr. | 6-0 | 200 |
| Seth Ilae | Farrington | LB | Sr. | 5-10 | 200 |
| Tyson Tynanes-Perez | Campbell | LB | Sr. | 5-11 | 200 |
| Ikaika Kamaka | Radford | CB | Sr. | 5-9 | 175 |
| Reid Saito | 'Iolani | CB | Jr. | 5-10 | 175 |
| Xavier Peterson | Moanalua | S | Sr. | 6-0 | 200 |
| Guyson Amina | Waianae | S | Sr. | 5-10 | 155 |
| Ikaika Marfil | Kamehameha | P | Sr. | 6-0 | 200 |
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