They’ve had to prove themselves so many times it’s become a habit — a very good one.
Ryan Pasoquen and Justin Vele are fifth-year seniors on the University of Hawaii football team. They’ve endured four consecutive losing seasons (the first in 2011 while redshirting under former coach Greg McMackin). But while they aren’t star players — maybe not even starters — if UH is to break that bad streak this fall, Pasoquen and Vele will probably be factors in it.
“Great character and team guys,” coach Norm Chow said after Saturday’s practice. “(They) shut their mouths and give great effort every day. Easily could sit around and gripe, but they never do that. They’re grateful to play college football and obtain a college education. No team can get along without guys like them. I love ‘em.”
Like the matchmaking service commercial says, like comes before love. Three years ago, guys like Pasoquen and Vele had to convince Chow they were worthy.
“When Coach Chow came we got experience and background. But discipline was the most important thing. He threw a lot of bullets at us,” Vele said.
Holdover players from a previous coaching staff must prove themselves all over again. Pasoquen and Vele did that by being willing to switch positions and overcoming serious knee injuries.
It helped that they were roommates.
“We always push each other,” said Pasoquen, who converted from safety to receiver in the spring of 2014. “I just have to remember who I am and be a role player.”
Both said they never thought of transferring.
“When I came in the plan was to play Division I football and take advantage of any opportunity I could get,” Vele said. “That didn’t change.”
Pasoquen, a former walk-on, had no desire to switch to a smaller school on the mainland where he might play more.
Vele came in as a linebacker and was shifted to fullback and tight end.
Their diligence, adaptability and loyalty has paid off. With offensive coordinator Don Bailey’s fast-break offense, Pasoquen will be in the mix. He got in on 15 plays in Friday’s scrimmage.
“This is the most solid receiving corps since I’ve been here,” Pasoquen said. “But it’s a fast tempo, and if a receiver goes downfield, has a long route, he’s probably coming out the next play. You have to be ready on the sideline, helmet on.”
Although it might be labeled a finesse attack by some, Bailey said the 240-pound Vele remains a valuable asset.
“Protecting the quarterback is still a big deal in this offense, and he can run between the tackles as well,” Bailey said. “They’re solid veteran guys who understand they have to be ready to be called on at anytime. They know what this program is about, and they know their roles.”
Pasoquen came from Leilehua and Vele from Farrington, both winning programs. They never get used to losing; for them it’s not a habit, but a circumstance they continue to battle against.
“Every year (the burden) grew,” Vele said. “You just try to help the young guys learn so it will change.”
Reach Dave Reardon at dreardon@staradvertiser.com or 529-4783. His blog is at Hawaiiwarriorworld.com/quick-reads.
