» Neil Cabico
» UH-Hilo
» Golfer

There’s small town. And then there is Lanai City.

"Everyone is family, you know everyone there," said Hawaii-Hilo senior golfer Neil Cabico, who was born and raised in Lanai City (pop. 3,164). "The best thing about growing up on Lanai is it’s slow, laid-back.

"There’s not much to do. Fishing, free-diving and golf."

Cabico worked at the courses on the island and got to play for free. When it came time for college, he decided to walk on for the Vulcans.

Island-hopping was the right move for Cabico, who has honed his game as well as his conversation skills.

"I don’t think he said a word when he first got here," UHH golf coach Earl Tamiya said. "He’s really grown while he’s been with us.

"He’s a really hard worker, very humble and a leader."

Earlier this month, Cabico was the top finisher for the Vulcans, tying for 28th in the field of 114 at The Amer Ari Invitational. He carded a 3-under 213 on the Kings’ Course at Waikoloa, UHH’s home course, and earned the first PacWest weekly golf honor of the year.

"I’m pretty excited about the rest of the season," said Cabico, who is majoring in business administration with the goal of becoming a golf course manager. "We have some good tournaments coming up."

The Vulcans tied for 11th last season at the NCAA Division II regionals and "our goal is to make it to nationals this year," he said. "If we keep working hard, I think we have a good shot."