Murphy has contributed much to University of Hawai'i athletics for the past 11 years, particularly as president of the Na Koa football booster club. His restaurant has hosted numerous UH team events and fundraisers, as well as KKEA radio's Call the Coach show over stretches of the past decade.

The speakers at the event were more than happy to talk of Murphy's generosity and accomplishments to the more than 50 club members and guests.

"There's a uniqueness in this man that I don't think I've found anywhere else," UH football coach June Jones said. "He will do anything for anybody. He means a lot to me, and to everybody in this room."

Jones said the football program owes much of its success to Murphy's contributions since the coach took over in 1999. His sentiments were echoed by UH softball coach Bob Coolen and UH women's basketball coach Jim Bolla, and Bob Nash, associate men's basketball coach.

The coaches presented Murphy with a UH-emblazoned apron for his hard work for the university and in the kitchen of his restaurant.

"We can't begin — begin — to thank him for all he's done for our programs," UH athletic director Herman Frazier emphasized.

When Murphy finally took the podium, the description given of him by the nine previous speakers was proven justified.

"It's an honor to be up here," said Murphy. "I'm really touched and humbled, but I am just so lucky to be able to do what I do — help the university."

Murphy is slated to do more than just help. Last month, it was announced that he would become president of 'Ahahui Koa Anuenue, UH-Manoa's umbrella athletic booster organization. He is currently the vice president, and will succeed attorney Bert T. Kobayashi Jr. on July 1.

"If (Murphy) were on a football team, he would be the quarterback," said Paul Durham, a former UH athletic director. "If he were in jail, the warden would bring him lunch."

Murphy moved to Hawai'i from California in 1986, and opened up his restaurant on Merchant Street a year later. Since then, it has become known as the location of the "Rainbow Pigskin Pigout," as well as the Ronald McDonald House charity for kids during Christmas.

"He is truly a man for all seasons," said veteran sportscaster Les Keiter.

"Today I'd like to be the first to put Don Murphy's name in for governor in 2006," said Don Robbs, general manager of KKEA. "The slogan would be, 'Murphy gets it done.' "

Judging by the loud applause in the ballroom, Murphy would win at least a few votes in that election.