Thursday, September 26, 1996
"I think we've talked enough about fund-raisers, charters, donations and the like," the University of Hawaii head coach said after yesterday's practice.
"The response has been nice, but it's time for me to be the head football coach again. We've got the ball rolling, now we need somebody in place to organize it."
UH president Kenneth Mortimer has been making a media tour through town, repeating the same things he has said since making the cuts in the athletic department budget last year.
He feels a person who coordinates fund-raising should be in place, and has said as much for three years.
In his mind, the onus falls squarely on the shoulders of Rainbows athletic director Hugh Yoshida, whose cry for help last week hasn't gone unanswered.
The problem is, many people who want to make donations didn't realize that 6 percent of it automatically goes to the University Foundation.
Because of that fact, some people are hesitant to give a large donation. VonAppen said most of the contributions have been in the $25-50 range.
"Hugh did tell me that someone gave us $2,000 today," vonAppen said. "But anything given to us is very helpful, no matter how large or small the amount."
Former Honolulu mayor Frank Fasi said yesterday he would give the Rainbows a loan, but vonAppen wasn't too excited about that.
"We don't need a loan," he said, then smiled. "We need cash and lots of it."
Some of the coaches and players said yesterday they appreciated what vonAppen and the athletic department are trying to do, but wished Mortimer had a more direct interest in the team.
Many players said they wouldn't know him if he walked into a room.
"I will say this for the man," vonAppen said. "He believes we should be taking care of our own business, and you have to agree with that.
"We need to make some changes around here and in a hurry. But that's really all I want to say on the matter. Let's move on."
The only other person out is tight end Gary Ellison, who also is battling a sprained knee. He said he hoped to be back next week.
Running back Randall Okimoto returned to practice this week. He injured his back in fall camp and had the flu last week. The former Farrington standout will make the trip to Fresno State.
"I've been saving them all for my senior season," Freitas joked. "I have to thank the coaches for helping me change my grip and stuff. It's working."