HONOLULU- As watches struck 8 a.m. HT on Friday morning the football practice field on the campus of the University of Hawai'i was filled with over 100 student-athletes, coaching staff and support staff north of 30, a dozen local media members, and a spattering of fans with a singular thought, "football season has finally begun".

"We had great energy out there today," said head coach Nick Rolovich. "We got a lot of reps in and tried to get everyone involved so we could get them on film to start judging and move forward. We weren't surprised by anything, I appreciate the effort we put out there, and we have some things to clean up staff wise when it comes to transitions but today is a good first day to build off."



Outside of those wearing numbers, most eyes were focused in at the quarterback and wide receivers position throughout the morning. Back during spring camp, it was announced the Rainbow Warriors had directed their offensive attention to a new but familiar style in the run-and-shoot. Entering camp senior Cole McDonald is the front-runner to lead the team at the quarterback position. McDonald showcased his arm in each part of practice, locating and firing to each receiver in stride. One of the receivers in question is junior John Ursua. Last season Ursua's sophomore campaign ended early due to a knee injury but comes into camp healthy.

"My knee feels 100 percent, but my conditioning may need some work," said a joking Ursua. "The run-and-shoot offense took a toll on me out there today, but it's something I'm going to work on these next few weeks."

One element some tend to forget when it comes to the run-and-shoot offense is how much of an effect it can have on the running game in a positive way. When approached with the question of having a different mindset due to the offensive adjustments, sophomore running back Fred Holly III referred back to the explosive play of former Rainbow Warrior great Alex Green.

"All I think about is Alex Green," said Holly III. "I stay up at night and watch his highlights. His huge runs for 60 yards, 80 yards, and watch those all of the time. But I know I have to improve my pass protections, so I feel like all of this will make me a better football player."



Defensively UH will offer a different look as well in 2018, with the additions of defensive coordinator Corey Batoon and the return of linebackers coach Mark Banker for his second round of duty. According to junior linebacker Solomon Matautia, he and his fellow teammates welcome the new approach.

"It's the same thing as the offensive," said Matautia. "This defense fits our personnel better, and I think with everyone's abilities we can do well and perform."

Following a 3-9 record in 2017, along with changes to the offense and defense, UH was picked to finish fifth in the west division of the Mountain West Conference behind front-runner Fresno State, San Diego State, UNLV, and Nevada. But it's the changes and unanswered questions that make the 2018 Rainbow Warriors a dangerous team within the conference.



Camp will continue tomorrow once again at 8 a.m. and all practices until August 4th will be open to the public. The season is set to begin on August 25th at Colorado State, with the home opener slated for September 1st against Navy. Season tickets for all seven home games at Aloha Stadium are on sale now.