Before stepping onto the field for the 2024 Polynesian Bowl, Moe Passi will be listening to his favorite pre-game playlist loaded with reggae classics from Bob Marley to Gregory Isaacs. The tunes will put the football player into the calm, focused headspace he needs for the impending big game.

Scheduled for January 19, Passi and his fellow Warrior Tristan Waiamau-Galindo will grace Kūnuiākea Stadium on Kamehameha Schools Kapālama campus alongside 100 other selected players for the annual Polynesian Bowl. This marks the third year KS has hosted the historic game that brings together top-tier high school seniors from around the country. The NFL Network will broadcast the event live this Friday, with kick-off set for 4 p.m. HST.

Robert Hesia, KS Kapālama's director of campus athletics and human performance, emphasized the honor of being a partner with the Polynesian Bowl.

“The Polynesian Bowl game holds profound significance for our Native Hawaiian and Polynesian players. It not only showcases their athletic prowess, but also celebrates the rich cultural heritage they bring to the field, emphasizing the leadership and drive of our Polynesian youth,” Hesia said.

Passi is eager to display his talent to college recruiters and coaches, expressing gratitude for the heightened exposure. After a junior-year injury drastically impacted his season, the running back does not take the playing time for granted. Having been an avid viewer of the Polynesian Bowl since fifth grade, he is determined to put on a captivating performance for keiki watching nationwide.

“It’s really important to me because not only are we representing Hawaiʻi but our culture and our school,” Passi said.

Waiamau-Galindo, who recently committed to playing for the Rainbow Warriors at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, sees this game as a steppingstone to the next level. The edge rusher is approaching the game with great responsibility, dedicating time for special training before bowl practices begin. His pre-game ritual involves stepping onto the field and praying.

“I pray not only for myself but for protection over my teammates and just give all glory to God,” Waiamau-Galindo shared.

Both athletes share the dream of playing for the NFL, aspiring to provide for their families who supported them throughout their passionate football careers. Believing there is no victory without sacrifice, Passi and Waiamau-Galindo are humbled by this opportunity to play for their school, communities and lāhui.

To learn more about the Polynesian Bowl and secure game day tickets to support our Warrior All-Stars, visit https://www.polynesianbowl.com/.

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kapalama,polynesian bowl, 'ōiwi leaders,ks kapalama

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Kaipuolono Article, Regions, Kona, O’ahu, Themes, Culture, Community, Kapalama Newsroom, Kapalama Athletics, Kapalama Home, KS Announcements, Newsroom, Kapalama, Oiwi Leaders, Hawaii campus, Kapalama campus, Maui campus

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