Warriors’ Owens
to join Chang
in Shrine Game

The UH receiver/kick returner
earned an invite after scoring
three TDs in the Hawaii Bowl

Hawaii receiver/kick returner Chad Owens has accepted an invitation to play in the East-West Shrine Game.

"It's awesome, I'm really looking forward to it," Owens said.

Owens, a second-team All-America all-purpose player, joins his UH teammate, quarterback Tim Chang, on the West squad in the Jan. 15 All-Star game at SBC Park in San Francisco. Kahuku products Aaron Francisco of BYU and Chris Kemoeatu (Utah) are already on the team.

Owens was invited after a three-touchdown (two receptions, one punt return) performance in UH's 59-40 victory over UAB in Friday's Sheraton Hawaii Bowl. It capped a final run in which Owens scored 12 TDs in his last three games, two of which where on national TV.

"It wasn't just that, but it certainly didn't hurt," Shrine Game executive director Jack Hart said. "He was on our watch list all season. We are delighted to fit him in. He reminds us of Wes Welker, who was in our game last year and every time I see a Miami Dolphins game he's catching a pass or returning a kick."

Hart said UH cornerback Abraham Elimimian might still be invited to the Shrine Game. Elimimian is also awaiting a possible invitation to the Jan. 29 Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala.

Chang, Elimimian, Owens, offensive lineman Uriah Moenoa and defensive tackle Lui Fuga have all accepted invitations to play in the Jan. 22 Hula Bowl Maui at War Memorial Stadium.

"It will be fun," Owens aid. "I feel I have to go, because it's one more game for the state and the people want me to be there. It's good exposure for me, too."

Owens will accept the Mosi Tatupu Award in conjunction with the Hula Bowl. The award is named after the former Punahou and USC standout who starred on special teams for the New England Patriots.

Owens finished his UH career with a multitude of school records.