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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Wednesday, January 18, 2006

Waimea's Estes says he'll play UH football

By Stephen Tsai
Advertiser Staff Writer

Kenny Estes, Waimea High School's multi-skilled athlete, has accepted a football scholarship from the University of Hawai'i.

"I'm going to be a Warrior," said Estes, who is 6 feet and 190 pounds. "It's a deal I couldn't turn down. My parents are excited. They're very excited."

At Waimea, Estes played running back, safety, kicker and punter. He also returned kickoffs and punts.

He is projected to compete as a defensive back at UH, although he might earn a shot as a kicker. He booted a 50-yard field goal against Kaua'i High.

Estes was the Kaua'i Interscholastic Federation's Offensive Player of the Year. He also was on the KIF's first team on defense.

Last year, he was named to The Advertiser's All-State soccer team as a defender. Estes, who moved to midfielder this year, has participated in the Olympic development program for soccer the past four years.

At last year's state track meet, he was a member of the Waimea team that won the 4x100-meter relay. He placed second in the state's 100-meter finals, finishing in 11.21 seconds. His personal best is 10.9 seconds. He also can run 40 yards in 4.5 seconds.

Estes received the scholarship offer Sunday, the last day of his recruiting visit. "I had an awesome time," he said.

Running back Reagan Mauia and defensive linemen Lawrence Wilson, Fale Laeli and Rocky Savaiigaea served as hosts.

"They felt like bodyguards," Estes said. "They really took care of me."

He also was recruited by Iowa State and Western Oregon.

Estes has a cumulative 3.3 grade-point average. He has received a qualifying score on the SAT.

He said he plans to major in zoology or marine biology.

Reach Stephen Tsai at stsai@honoluluadvertiser.com.