As we enter 2025, a compelling narrative is emerging in the Hawaiian sports scene, highlighting quarterbacks born on the island. Over the past decade, three quarterbacks who honed their skills in Hawaii have emerged as finalists for the famous Heisman Trophy, including one, Marcus Mariota, who won the prestigious honor. While that doesn’t yet qualify Hawaii as a quarterback factory, the trend is undeniable: The islands are producing elite talent who continue to make a splash on the national stage.
Dillon Gabriel, representing Mililani, is currently leading the undefeated Oregon Ducks to a crucial College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl, after finishing in third place in the Heisman voting. The implications of Gabriel’s performance are immense, and local fans are sure to tune in to witness this defining moment in Hawaiian soccer’s legacy.
The narrative takes on added historical significance by echoing the accomplishments of former Heisman finalist Mariota, who led the Ducks to victory in the 2015 Rose Bowl over Florida State. However, there is one caveat as Oregon prepares to face Ohio State, the same opponent that dashed Mariota’s championship dreams in the 2015 College Football Playoff finale.
Gabriel, who previously starred at UCF and Oklahoma, has an impressive 153 career touchdown passes, just three shy of the Division I record set by Cam Ward. As NFL scouts evaluate Gabriel, he is currently projected as a mid-to-late round draft prospect. If he makes it onto an NFL roster, Hawaii could witness a remarkable feat: having three quarterbacks representing the islands at a professional level.
Former Heisman runner-up Tua Tagovailoa continues to make his mark in the NFL, currently in his fifth season with the Miami Dolphins after signing a lucrative four-year extension. Alongside him, Marcus Mariota serves as a backup for the Washington Commanders, proving that Hawaiian talent is firmly entrenched in the league. Additionally, rookie quarterback Micah Alejado is making strides at the University of Hawaii, having shown immense potential in his debut performance.
In other Hawaii sports news, the University of Hawaii is looking for a new athletic director following the departure of Craig Angelos. Keith Amemiya, with an impressive track record in Hawaiian sports, has emerged as a candidate, although he remains undecided on pursuing the role. Meanwhile, the New Aloha Stadium project finally appears to be gaining momentum, with expectations for a contract to be signed and the old stadium approved for demolition by summer.
The overall landscape of UH sports is going through a period of rebuilding. The football team has struggled since the 2020 pandemic season, and the volleyball, basketball and softball teams are also navigating through changes, including coaching transitions and player departures. However, the introduction of women’s flag football as a state-sanctioned sport represents an exciting opportunity for growth and development in the sport in Hawaii.
In conclusion, the year ahead promises an exciting journey for Hawaiian sports, showcasing the legacy of the islands’ quarterbacks and the transformative potential of the University of Hawaii’s athletic programs.
