Print subscriber but without online access? Activate your Digital Account now.
Now that the Hawaii football team appears to have fixed its kicking problems, it is prepared to add a new wrinkle.
Head coach Greg McMackin said he is considering having running back Joey Iosefa handle some kickoffs during practices this week.
During Friday’s walk-through in Idaho’s Kibbie Dome, Iosefa launched long kickoffs during warm-ups. That playful venture seized the attention of the UH coaches.
"He’s an athlete," McMackin said. "He can run, throw and catch. It looks like he can kick, too."
In high school in American Samoa, Iosefa played quarterback and defensive back. He also played volleyball, basketball and rugby.
The Warriors have three place-kickers on the roster — Kenton Chun, Tyler Hadden and Kyle Niiro. In Saturday’s 16-14 victory over Idaho, Chun was used for point-after kicks and field-goal tries up to 40 yards. Hadden was used for kickoffs and long-range attempts. Hadden hit a season-long 47-yarder, and Chun converted two field-goal attempts, including the game-winner from 35 yards with 32 seconds left.
But Chun, who has endured tendinitis in his left (non-kicking) knee, does not have the leg strength for deep kickoffs. Hadden has had to battle a hip injury that has hindered the depth of his kickoffs.
The Warriors are seeking insurance if Hadden’s hip condition worsens. Kenny Estes, a kicker and soccer player in high school, was one consideration.
Now Iosefa is viewed as an emergency option.
"We’ll give him a look," McMackin said.
Against New Mexico State, Chun could not continue to play when he experienced difficulty with the weight-bearing leg he uses to plant on kicks. But after intensive treatment, he improved enough to earn the final spot on the travel roster to Idaho.
"He’s a tough guy," McMackin said. "Both of our kickers are tough guys."
72