Rainbow Warriors Gear Up for Spring Football: A Look at the 2026 Roster
The University of Hawai’i football team is preparing for its 2026 spring practice, kicking off on Tuesday morning. The team has been undergoing rigorous training, inspired by the “mission mindset mentality” developed by associate head coach Chris Brown, drawing from the experiences of military veterans.
Quarterback Competition Heats Up
Micah Alejado will benefit from a much-needed break this spring after playing through multiple injuries last season. Contact reps will be divided between freshman Maika Eugenio, an early enrollee from Bishop Gorman High and Virginia transfer Bjorn Jurgensen. Head coach Timmy Chang intends to maintain a quarterback room of four players, with plans to add a walk-on before training camp.
Defensive End Contenders Emerge
On the defensive side, Ka’eo Akana is vying for a spot in the defensive end rotation. He is among the players competing for playing time as the Warriors begin spring practice.
Fresh Faces and Local Talent
The 2026 roster showcases a blend of experienced seniors and promising newcomers. Frank Abreu, a wide receiver from Kamehameha Schools-Maui, is listed on the roster. Several players hail from O’ahu high schools, including Roosevelt and Saint Louis.
A Focus on Brotherhood and Resilience
Coach Brown’s “mission mindset” emphasizes teamwork, perseverance, and a commitment to staying together. This approach is particularly relevant in the current college football landscape, where the transfer portal presents ongoing challenges to team cohesion.
Roster Highlights: Key Players to Watch
The roster includes a diverse range of players across all positions. Notable names include Zion Allen, Jahren Altura, Devin Alves, and Pofele Ashlock. Several players have unique nicknames, such as Caleb “C-Bo” Brown and Jarvis “Dino” Heimuli.
Recent Recruiting Successes
Frank Abreu has received an offer from Hawaii, demonstrating the program’s ability to attract local talent. Ka’eo Akana has garnered interest from multiple programs, including Arizona and Boise State.
FAQ
Q: When does spring practice begin?
A: Spring practice begins on Tuesday morning.
Q: Who are the quarterbacks competing for playing time?
A: Micah Alejado will be resting, with Maika Eugenio and Bjorn Jurgensen competing for reps.
Q: What is the “mission mindset”?
A: It’s a team culture emphasizing single-minded purpose, brotherhood, and resilience, inspired by military principles.
Q: Where is Frank Abreu from?
A: Frank Abreu is from Kamehameha Schools-Maui.
Q: Is Ka’eo Akana a senior?
A: Yes, Ka’eo Akana is a senior.
Pro Tip: Maintain an eye on the freshman quarterbacks, Maika Eugenio and Bjorn Jurgensen, as they compete for valuable playing time this spring.
Stay tuned for further updates on the Rainbow Warriors’ spring practice and roster developments. Explore our other articles for more in-depth coverage of Hawai’i football!
