Former University of Hawai'i football player Ikaika Alama-Francis expects to be healthy enough to participate in next month's National Football League Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.

Two weeks ago, Alama-Francis suffered a torn right pectoral muscle during the Hula Bowl. He underwent surgery in San Francisco last week, and has started a rehabilitation program in Hawai'i.

"It was something that happened," said Alama-Francis, a defensive end. "My chest just gave out."

Such an injury could have necessitated a recovery period of up to six months. But Alama-Francis said the San Francisco-based surgeon "really took care of me. He's one of the best in the country."

Alama-Francis promised: "I will make the combine. I'll participate in it."

For now, the injury prevents him from upper-body training. But he can run, and he plans to focus on strengthening his legs.

He said he might finish his rehabilitation in California.

"I know I'll be healthy for the (NFL) draft (in April)," he said.

Alama-Francis will be a guest instructor at the Hawai'i Speed and Quickness clinic tomorrow at UH's Klum Gym. There are sessions tomorrow and Sunday, from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Admission is $10 per session. The clinic is open to ages kindergarten through eighth grade.

"I want to help kids from Hawai'i as much as I can," Alama-Francis said. "I come from Hawai'i, and kids from Hawai'i are fantastic. They're our future. People who played at UH should be role models."

For camp information, call 739-5444 or log on to: www.hawaiispeedandquickness.com.

Reach Stephen Tsai at stsai@honoluluadvertiser.com.