Football came back in a big way for Kohala last season with the debut of the 8-man game. The return to the gridiron was a learning experience not only for the players — many who were getting their first taste of the game — but the coaches as well.
“We found out the 8-man game is much quicker and more about speed than strength,” Kohala head coach Reggie Tolentino said.
The Cowboys finished the season 2-2 and runner-up to Ka‘u in the inaugural year of 8-man in the BIIF. However, good numbers coming out to practice and an improved understanding of the game have Kohala moving in the right direction.
“We have almost 30 players this year, which is a big number for us. They all come out, listen and work hard. And with 8-man, we can put everyone in, let them get game experience and get us ready for the future,” Tolentino said. “It would be nice to catch Ka‘u but I don’t want to make any promises. We have the tools, but we just have to stay healthy and strong until the end.”
In Kohala’s only game of the preseason, the Cowboys fell to Molokai 46-14.
Quarterback
The immediate offensive future will be dependent on finding a replacement for first-team All-BIIF quarterback Hana Caravalho.
Tolentino said he has been working with senior Joey Salvador and junior Marc Francisco at the QB spot in the Cowboys spread offense. Both should see time this year.
Skill positions
Running the ball will be by committee for Kohala. Cayson Carlos-Ellazar and Zerex Abellera will be the primary backs. Moses Hooton could also receive carries, but will see time at tight end as well.
Isaiah Villacorte-Carvalho will be a utility player for the Cowboys at the skill positions.
“Isaiah is an all-around athlete,” Tolentino said. “We can basically plug him in anywhere and he will be a factor.”
Offensive line
With a new quarterback learning the offense, a sturdy offensive line will be key. Luckily, the Cowboys return a lot of experience up front.
Headlining the group are seniors Chase Kaluau and Nathan “Nato” Canionero-Carvalho.
“We will keep a lot the same from last year,” Tolentino said. “The kids understand the offense and know what is going on.”
Defense
JR Marquiz (5-7, 165) will hold down an end spot, while Hooton will provide the pressure up the middle. Neither have the typical frame of a defensive lineman, but have enough strength and more than enough speed to wreak havoc.
“The other teams did not pass a lot last year, so we want to focus on applying pressure,” Tolentino said.
If the Cowboys opt for more beef in the middle, they have a stable of 200-plus two-way linemen who can step in.
Abellera will be the centerpiece at middle linebacker for Kohala.
“He is a heavy hitter for us,” said Tolentino. “We are really going to concentrate on loading the box and stopping the run.”