Despite accolades from a season ago, McKinley quarterback Abel Werner and Castle linebacker Blaze Soares still made it a point to improve their performances. Their off-season work was reflected in being named the Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year on the O'ahu Interscholastic Association Eastern Division All-Star Team.

Kahuku's Siuaki Livai is the East's Coach of the Year.

East coaches made the selections.

Werner, a 5-foot-11, 170-pound senior, was a second-team all-state selection last year basically because of his passing performance. This season, he added another dimension by being able to scramble, keeping defenses honest.

"This year, he's a lot quicker," McKinley coach William Moeava said. "He's a little more agile, side-to-side. Last year, he couldn't run away from guys. This year, he had that separation. He did a lot of running and worked out at the weight room to get better and stronger."

Werner, a starter since his sophomore year, completed 98 of 194 passes for 1,484 yards and 16 touchdowns against eight interceptions. He also rushed for 323 yards on 94 carries, including six TDs.

He also was a good leader.

"Abel was like an extra coach on the field," Moeava said. "I liked the way he leads our kids out there."

Soares was an all-state selection last year as a sophomore, but continued to make himself a better player, Castle coach Nelson Maeda said.

"He has a passion for the game and does all he can to prepare himself," Maeda said.

The 6-1, 180-pound junior made the varsity as a freshman. Last year, he established himself as one of the top linebackers in the state in helping the Knights reach the state finals. He continued his outstanding play this season.

"He's blessed with great football smarts and instincts," Maeda said. "He set himself a goal to do the best he can do to get a college scholarship."

East champion Kahuku and Castle led the first-team selections with seven apiece.

Representing the Red Raiders are wide receiver Spencer Hafoka, offensive lineman Jeremy Perry, defensive linemen B. J. Beatty and Shosei Yamauchi, defensive backs Al Afalava and Afa Garrigan, and linebacker Walker Vave.

Joining Soares from Castle are wide receiver Ikaika Ho, offensive lineman Keoni Gomes, linebacker Antone Watanabe, defensive lineman Travis Paaga, and special teams players Ethan Gonsalves and Jarred Suzui.

Farrington had four selections on the first team with running back Matt Bell, offensive lineman Shawn Lauvao, defensive back Taeao Fagalele and defensive lineman Luavalu Sagapolutele.

Kailua and McKinley had three selections each.

The Surfriders are represented by running back Kekoa Sua, offensive lineman Kea Crowell and defensive back Derek Mailau.

McKinley offensive lineman Raphael Ieru and receiver Iakopo Taumua join Werner on the first team.

Livai led the Red Raiders to the Eastern Division, OIA and state titles. Kahuku went 7-0 during the regular season after winning a preseason game at Lahainaluna. The Red Raiders then went on to win three games in the OIA playoffs and three in the state tournament en route to their third state title.