Hawai'i's state tree is the family tree.

It is rooted in common beliefs and interests.

Its branches extend beyond bloodlines.

In Hawai'i, the word 'ohana — family — is indeed a relative term.

We refer to our elders as "Uncle" or "Auntie."

We greet our friends as "brah" or "sista."

A homegrown hero — Bryan Clay, a Waipi'o baseball player, Jasmine Trias — is an Island Son or Island Daughter.

Keiki o ka 'aina.

Child of the land.

The concept of 'ohana has become ingrained in the culture of Hawai'i football.

Greg McMackin, the first-year University of Hawai'i head football coach, has preached a family atmosphere.

He arranged the work schedule so that his assistant coaches can spend quality time with their families.

"They need to be with their kids in the morning or at night," McMackin said.

'Ohana also is found in the stands. Season-ticket holders have created their own neighborhood, watching each other's children grow and then buy additional tickets for their own families.

Tail-gate parties have become weekly family reunions. Some never make it inside the stadium to watch the game.

A village might raise a child, but a community can support a football team.

Chili sales and car washes pay for uniforms, equipment and other expenses.

And when the local high school team wins, the entire town celebrates, as it did in Wahiawa last year.

Or in Kahuku in previous years.

McMackin, who was born in Oregon, has traveled the country. Hawai'i, he insisted, is his home.

"The most important thing is your family," McMackin said. "I have my personal family — my wife, my daughter and my grandkids. But I also have this family — my team. My players, my coaches, that's my family, too. If you have your family, you have everything."