Opening-day Game Will Set Tone For Hurricanes’ Season
By Jack Danilewicz
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Del.icio.usFor entertainment value, perhaps no other prep team in the state packed as much high drama into their nine-game 2009 season as Kapolei.
There were heartbreaking defeats to Leilehua and Waianae and a joyous four-game win streak, highlighted by a win over then-unbeaten Mililani in what ended up a 5-4 season. Whether or not Kapolei’s 2010 campaign will play out like last year is unclear, but it has the chance to make a huge statement early on with Punahou as their opening-day opponent Aug. 21 at Aloha Stadium.
Games continue at Leilehua Aug. 27, Aiea Sept. 4, at Radford Sept. 10, Waianae Sept. 18, at Campbell Sept. 24 and Mililani Oct. 1.
Breaking down the schedule: Catching both Waianae and Mililani at home is huge, although the toughest road assignment - late August at Leilehua - comes early. The three-game stretch versus Waianae (home), (at) Campbell and Mililani (home) to conclude the Red West season is difficult, but Kapolei will be happy to play two of these three at home. The bye week comes in the last week, which could be good or bad.
Can’t-miss game 1: Versus Mililani at home Oct. 1. An obvious subplot will play out in this one, as Trojan quarterback Trent McKinney returns to the school he spent his first two years at to face his former teammates in a game whose outcome could have a huge impact on the OIA Red West race. Kapolei won last year’s game, 41-24, in a breakthrough victory.
Can’t-miss game 2: At Leilehua Aug. 27. This game can’t come quickly enough for the Hurricanes, who had the Mules on the ropes in last year’s game with a 10-7 lead and Leilehua facing a fourth-and-three at midfield. The Mules got out of that predicament via a touchdown pass that covered all 50 yards and went on to win 14-10. Playing Punahou a week earlier can only benefit Kapolei as it looks ahead to this game.
Trap game: At Radford Sept. 10. To be in a good position entering its last three tough games, Kapolei obviously has to win this game. The Rams always get the best out of their players, and they can usually put up points, given the influence of coach Fred Salanoa, himself a standout quarterback in his playing days. Kapolei would be wise not to look past this game.
Worst-case scenario: Hurricanes finish 2-4 (2-5 overall) in the OIA Red West, defeating Aiea and Radford and losing to Punahou, Leilehua, Waianae, Campbell and Mililani. So tough is the league that a winless campaign isn’t out of the question for half the teams.
Best-case scenario: Hurricanes finish 5-1 (6-1 overall) in the OIA Red West. The parity in the Red West makes for a wide disparity between best and worst-case scenarios for Kapolei. Whether it can win the league remains to be seen, but all the parts appear to be in place.
Make plans for the 2010 post-season if: the Hurricanes can hold their own on defense. The prototypical team can score points, so all eyes will be on the defense, especially in the two critical opening games.
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