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The Honolulu Advertiser

Posted on: Tuesday, August 24, 2004

UH roster receives infusion

By Stephen Tsai
Advertiser Staff Writer

The first day of school can be a difficult adjustment, especially for players attempting to join the University of Hawai'i football team.

JUNE JONES

On the first day of the fall semester — when the NCAA rule limiting rosters to 105 players expired — the Warriors yesterday welcomed 20 players who were not invited to the recently completed training camp. Some of the additions might not be around long enough to unpack.

"We have to see what shape they're in," UH coach June Jones said.

Jones said each newcomer must pass the 220s, a test in which a player is required to run 10 sprints of 220 yards. Time limits and rest periods are based on a player's position.

What's more, the Warriors have 120 lockers.

"There are some decisions to be made," said assistant coach Rich Miano, who coordinates the walk-on program. "Some will be made on the 220s. Some will be based on how much (locker) space we have."

The first 220 test was administered yesterday; another is scheduled for today.

Quarterback Jeff Rhode, who was competing for the job as top backup to Tim Chang during spring practice, reported to the team yesterday. In May, he was told he would not be included on the guest list for training camp.

"I didn't expect that, for sure," said Rhode, a fourth-year junior.

Yesterday, Rhode passed the 220 test for the fourth consecutive year, but remains unsure of his role this season.

"I'm just going to work hard and see what I can do," he said.

There were six quarterbacks in training camp. "Rhode knows where he fits in" as the seventh quarterback, Jones said. "I would say something would have to happen drastically for him to get into the (first) game."

Rhode said: "I wouldn't expect to play in the first game. I haven't been here for a couple of weeks. I'm not really thinking about the first game."

Among the other players who reported yesterday were linebacker Adam Ilaoa, the younger brother of slotback Nate Ilaoa, and receiver Chad Mock, a former McKinley High standout.

Defensive tackle Ali Likio is finalizing his transfer from Arizona State. Once cleared, Likio will be placed on scholarship.

Backup QBs Rolovich, Akina share workload

The Warriors usually use a 4-2 system to divide work between the quarterbacks. Chang would take four practice snaps, the No. 2 quarterback would take two, Chang would take four, and so forth.

But with Kainoa Akina and Jack Rolovich in a close battle for the backup job, UH has gone to a 4-2-2 practice rotation. Although Rolovich follows Chang in the practice rotation, Jones has said Akina would be the immediate replacement if Chang were forced to leave the game. Jones said he is trying to craft a role for Rolovich, who is expected to play extensively this season.

"We're not worried about who's No. 2 or who's No. 3," said Dan Morrison, who coaches the quarterbacks. "Our goal is to make sure No. 2 and No. 3 are ready for the first game."

Jones said freshman quarterbacks Taylor Humphrey, Brandon Satcher and Tyler Graunke remain in the running to play this season.

Graunke was held out of practice yesterday while awaiting the blessing of the NCAA Clearinghouse. Graunke apparently has met the requirements to play as a freshman, and UH should receive confirmation this week.

Slotback Se'e Poumele will no longer moonlight as the quarterback in short-yard situations. Akina or Satcher will fill that role.

Ailing receivers return to practice

Receivers Britton Komine, Poumele, Andrew Pearman and Ian Sample resumed practicing yesterday. They are suffering from leg strains and did not participate in Sunday's 52-play scrimmage.

"I'm kind of limited," said Komine, who is projected to start at right wideout. "My leg is still kind of tight. I'm trying to get it worked out so I can be at full speed by the end of the week."

Jones said: "We've got to get the guys ready who are going to play in the (first) game."

Jones said most of the practice work is going to the first- and second-string players, and the top members of the special teams.

Reach Stephen Tsai at stsai@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8051.