The Hawaii Rainbow Warriors football team, representing the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, has a rich and storied history in NCAA Division I FBS college football. Originally a member of the Western Athletic Conference, the team joined the Mountain West Conference in 2012.
From 2000 to 2013, the team was known simply as the Warriors before reverting to their original name, the Rainbow Warriors. The team achieved a milestone by becoming the third team from a non-automatic qualifier conference to play in a BCS bowl game. Although they lost to Georgia in the Sugar Bowl on January 1, 2008, their impressive performance solidified their place in college football history.
Let's delve into some key moments from the team's past:
Early History
The football program at the University of Hawaiʻi began in 1909 when the College of Hawaii "Fighting Deans" defeated McKinley High School by a score of 95-5. In 1920, the college became the University of Hawaiʻi, and the football team played its first intercollegiate game against Nevada, unfortunately losing 14-0.
Otto Klum Era (1921-1939)
Under the guidance of coach Otto Klum, the Rainbow Warriors experienced a golden era. In 1922, they defeated their first collegiate opponent, Pomona, with a score of 25-6. The 1923 season was marked by the appearance of a rainbow over Moiliili Field after a victory over Oregon State, leading to the team being nicknamed the "Rainbows." The next two seasons saw the team complete back-to-back undefeated seasons, earning them the moniker of the "Wonder Teams."
Eugene Gill Era (1940-1941)
Unfortunately, the football seasons from 1942 to 1945 were canceled due to the attack on Pearl Harbor and World War II. In 1946, the team resumed play as a member of the NCAA. The Hawaiʻi Warriors played local and collegiate teams as part of their schedule.
Hank Vasconcellos Era (1952-1960)
The year 1955 witnessed a remarkable upset by the Rainbows when they defeated Nebraska 6-0. This victory is considered one of the greatest upsets in the team's history. In 1961, the program was briefly abolished due to financial reasons but resumed intercollegiate competition the following year.
Jim Asato Era (1962-1964) and Shaughnessy-Sarboe-King Era (1965-1967)
Under the leadership of coach Jim Asato, the Rainbows experienced moderate success. In 1965, Larry Price performed in his third Hula Bowl as a College All-Star, showcasing the talent emerging from the University of Hawaiʻi. In 1967, Don King took over as head coach, and the team experienced a significant resurgence, garnering larger crowds and setting the stage for future successes.
Dave Holmes Era (1968-1973)
Dave Holmes began his tenure as head coach in 1968, leading the team to winning seasons and never suffering a losing record. Holmes still holds the record for the highest winning percentage in Hawaiʻi football history. This era also saw Larry Cole become the first UH Warrior to participate in the Super Bowl.
Larry Price Era (1974-1976)
The 1975 season marked an important milestone for the team as they moved from an NCAA Division II status to become a Division I member. The team, now known as the "Bows," played their first game at the newly built Aloha Stadium, a 50,000-seat facility.
Dick Tomey Era (1977-1986)
Under coach Dick Tomey, the team joined the Western Athletic Conference in 1979. This era saw several notable accomplishments, including the team's first major bowl game appearance in the Jeep Eagle Aloha Bowl in 1989. The Rainbows also achieved a share of their first-ever WAC championship in 1992, which led to a victory in the Thrifty Car Rental Holiday Bowl.
June Jones Era (1999-2007)
June Jones took over as head coach in 1999, bringing significant success to the program. In his first season, the team accomplished the best single-season turnaround in NCAA history, winning nine games and sharing the WAC championship. The team went on to claim victory in the Jeep Oʻahu Bowl, solidifying their reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
Greg McMackin Era (2008-2011)
Following June Jones' departure after the 2007 season, Greg McMackin assumed the role of head coach. McMackin led the team to several bowl game appearances, including the Sugar Bowl in 2008, where they faced Georgia. Although they lost, this marked Hawaii's first-ever appearance in a BCS bowl game.
Future Outlook
The team has seen several coaching changes in recent years, with Norm Chow and Nick Rolovich taking the helm. In 2020, Todd Graham became the head coach, leading the team to a victorious season, including a win in the New Mexico Bowl.
Currently, the team is headed by Timmy Chang, a former Hawaiʻi quarterback himself. As the program looks to the future, fans can anticipate more exciting seasons from the Rainbow Warriors.
The history of the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors football team is one filled with triumphs, upsets, and remarkable performances. From their early days to their recent successes, the team has left a lasting impact on college football.
