Saturday, March 24, 2001

Kamehameha
tight end signs with
Southern Cal

Kapanui is first at his position
recruited for Trojans'
new system

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By Dave Reardon
and Tim Crouse
Star-Bulletin

Kolo Kapanui was known more for his basketball exploits than what he accomplished in football at Kamehameha.

But the Star-Bulletin all-state tight end hopes to make his mark on the gridiron at Southern Cal. He recently signed a letter of intent to accept a football scholarship from the Trojans.

Recruiting coordinator Ed Orgeron said Kapanui fits what the staff wants in a tight end.

"We liked his ability to catch the ball and his athletic ability," Orgeron said. "He's the first tight end that we've recruited in this style of offense (under new coach Pete Carroll). How fast he adapts to college life and (college) football is going to be a key factor in how fast he contributes."

He caught only eight passes last season (with three going for touchdowns), but the 6-foot-3, 215-pound Kapanui was a valuable blocker in the Warriors' run-oriented offense.

Kamehameha coach Kanani Souza said Kapanui could be the sleeper of this year's crop of Hawaii high school recruits.

"His potential is unlimited," Souza said. "He's been more of a basketball guy, with the summer trips and all. But the past year he's put a lot of time into football and is still just tapping into his potential."

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