Hilo quarterback Ka‘ale Tiogangco already has a dream college picked out because his role model went there: University of Oregon, the former home of Marcus Mariota.
The 5-foot-10, 160-pound junior hopes to follow in the Tennessee Titans QB’s footsteps, and not just his career path.
“I’m inspired by his humbleness and being a great leader,” Tiogangco said. “He’s very respectful. I look up to him in every way.”
It’s rather noteworthy that the Viking first-year starter mentioned Mariota’s character first before his skill-set of passing and running, similar fundamentals necessary in Hilo’s pistol offense.
Tiogangco, who was on the junior varsity last year, has been described as a “natural QB” by Hilo co-head coach Kaeo Drummondo and offensive coordinator Danny Saragosa for his smooth mechanics and tendency to go through his progressions on passing plays, instead of ditching the pocket at the first hint of pressure.
Though Tiogangco is a new starter, he’s embraced the role of the QB, steering the ship and running an offense that relies on rhythm and cohesion.
“I like being the leader on the team,” he said. “I try to make sure everything goes right and mostly push my teammates.”
Last season, the Vikings ran the spread with the running back to the side of the QB. The pistol allows the running back a better read, and a two-way running option. The passing routes are based on defensive coverage reads.
“Ka‘ale is a natural QB. He’s long on skills, and things will come together with experience,” Saragosa said. “The more games he plays the better he’ll get. We’re definitely young at the skill positions. Speed is our biggest weapon.”
Tiogangco noted that his patience is growing under Saragosa’s tutelage. Saragosa is also the QB coach.
“Coach Danny has helped me with play management,” Tiogangco said. “It’s don’t force throws, make your reads. Basically, it’s don’t mess things up, stay calm in the pocket. I like the balance in our offense, and I like running and passing. We have multiple options.”
Tiogangco also enjoys the disciplined coaching style of Drummondo, who will keep his role as the defensive coordinator.
“He’s really hard on us,” Tiogangco said. “He keeps us on our toes. He makes sure we don’t give up on each other. If we do something wrong, he makes sure we pick ourselves up and don’t do something wrong again.”
During the summer, Tiogangco attended the Maximum Exposure camp on Oahu, where more than 30 colleges were present, including Oregon.
His dad Ka‘ale Tiogangco, who works for Sun Construction, influences the Viking QB, who’s a role model to his three younger brothers.
His dad is less concerned about touchdowns, and more so about education and commitment, the biggest keys to opening college possibilities.
“My dad is always pushing me to be at practice every day, and keep my grades up,” Tiogangco said. “He keeps me on my toes, mainly. I’m the oldest of four and they look up to me as the oldest brother. They try to follow in my footsteps.”