As the 2026 football season approaches, excitement is building across Hawaiʻi, from the University of Hawaiʻi Rainbow Warriors to local high school teams.
University of Hawaiʻi Rainbow Warriors
The Rainbow Warriors are set to embark on a challenging 12-game schedule, featuring six home and six away games. The season kicks off on August 29 with an away game against Stanford University, marking the third season-opening matchup between the teams in the last four years. The home opener follows on September 5 against UNLV at the Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex. Other notable non-conference games include a home game against New Mexico State on September 12 and an away game at Arizona State on October 10. The full schedule is available on the University of Hawaiʻi Athletics website.
In a significant development, ESPN has projected the Rainbow Warriors as a potential participant in the upcoming College Football Playoff, placing them in the No. 12 spot among the nation’s top teams. This projection highlights the program’s growing national recognition and the momentum built under Head Coach Timmy Chang.
High School Football
On the high school front, the 2026 season is set to begin with fall practices starting on July 20, followed by the first games on August 7. The season will culminate with championships scheduled for November 27-28. Notably, Campbell High School enters the season as the defending Open Division state champions, following their dramatic 26-23 overtime victory over Kamehameha last year. Head Coach Darren Johnson emphasizes the importance of maintaining their championship form and not being dethroned.
Additionally, the inaugural Division II state flag football title was claimed by Kapolei High School, marking a significant milestone in the school’s 25-year history. Senior quarterback Taimane Amisone led the team to a decisive 77-19 victory over Maryknoll, throwing eight touchdowns in the process.
As the seasons unfold, fans across the islands eagerly anticipate the performances of both collegiate and high school teams, hoping for another year of memorable moments on the gridiron.