Warrior Beat

LIHUE — The Warriors held their 12th practice of spring training today on Kauai. It was a usual workout, featuring an extended situational scrimmage. It also marked a homecoming for right tackle Seanmichael Shigematsu and Saui Matagiese. Shigematsu’s first name is derived from Sean Connery — “the best James Bond,” father Delroy Shigematsu said — and Saint Michael. Here’s a Shigematsu T-shirt: * * * * * Here’s Matagiese: * * * * * Middle linebacker Brenden Daley: * * […]

Face it, there are football positions that require certain qualities. Quarterbacks need to be smart. Nose tackles need to be angry. Kickers need to be left alone. And middle linebackers need to be nuts. Sure, middle linebackers also must be sharp, agile, strong and tough. But most of all … “You have to be crazy at that position,” said Brenden Daley, the Warriors’ No. 1 middle linebacker. “You’re entitled to be crazy. You have to be loud, sometimes obnoxious.” Daley […]

Today’s spring practice: • George Daily-Lyles today practiced for the first time this spring training, and he played well in his debut as a defensive end. He even had a sack. • Fullback Marcus Langkilde continues to impress. Not only is he a ferocious blocker, he also is displaying skill as a receiver. Langkilde, who was raised on the mainland, is linebacker Art Laurel’s cousin. In case anyone is wondering, Langkilde is Samoan and German ancestry. • The Warriors’ passing […]

Punahou’s Kupono Fey and Kalaheo’s Nainoa Frank today made official what they had promised for months, signing letters of intent with the volleyball Warriors. They join a 2013-14 class that also includes setter Jennings Franciskovic and opposite Dane Keckin. The Warriors already have secured oral commitments from 2014-14 players Tui Tuileta of Punahou, Luke Owens of Kalaheo and Kama Paio of Hawaii Prep. * * * * * From yesterday’s practice: Quarterback Taylor Graham: * * * * * Quarterback […]

Question: How many UH maintenance workers does it take to change a lightbulb? Answer: None. Maintenance workers aren’t authorized to change lightbulbs, according to three people familiar with the subject. It’s no joke. Because of rules, contract languages and several things that fall under “etcetera,” custodians and maintenance workers are not permitted to change lightbulbs in the athletic department. It has something to do with job description, liability and ladders. We’re told UH restricts certain employees from working on  projects […]

Today is the first day of the spring-recruiting period, and seven UH football coaches  are visiting high schools today. Coaches are allowed to check on the academic and athletic progress of junior prospects, meaning they can meet with the players’ counselors and coaches. During the period, the coaches also may make a phone call to a prospect. * * * * * Like many Hawaii adults, Craig Cofer will be working a second job on a part-time basis. Cofer, who […]

According to people familiar with the situation, UH volleyball player JP Marks reached an agreement last week on a future contract with a team in Europe. Marks, we’re told, assumed because the arrangement would not activate until after his UH career ended — he does not plan on returning for his junior season — that it would not affect his eligibility. In fact, it appears to have jeopardized his amateur status. Marks did not play in any matches after the […]

The volleyball Warriors rallied to win in five sets to defeat UC San Diego today. Coupled with Cal State Northridge’s loss to Long Beach State, the Warriors earn the eighth — and final — berth in the MPSF playoffs. The Warriors play at No. 1 Brigham Young next Saturday. * * * * * As good as Punahou’s Larry “Tui” Tuileta is as football and volleyball player, he’s even better as a person. The guy volunteers with Habilitat for Humanity, […]