Mayor Mufi Hannemann's statement on the passing of former ‘Iolani football coach and athletic director Eddie Hamada:

“We’ve lost a legend in the passing of Eddie Hamada, ‘Mr. Iolani’ to one and all.

“He came into my life a little more than 43 years ago—when I was a seventh-grader at Iolani—and remained an influential part of my life since, as a teacher, coach, mentor, and dear friend. He was unstinting in his support for me throughout the years, and helped shape my values, especially my commitment to serving others.

“Eddie Hamada defined the modern era of Raider sports under the ‘One Team’ banner espoused by Father Bray, and he nurtured a legacy of athletic and academic excellence that continues to this day. But a student didn’t have to play for him to feel Mr. H’s love for young people, his desire to have them succeed in their endeavors, or his abiding commitment to the school and the people of Hawaii.

\“This is a very sad day for me and everyone at Iolani. Gail and I and the entire Hannemann ohana extend our condolences to Cynthia and the family.”