Tannehill fits right in as
Warriors’ replacement

The Kamehameha Warriors didn't have to go far to find a temporary replacement for Kanani Souza.

The school named Doss Tannehill as interim head football coach yesterday. Tannehill has been on staff as an assistant for the past nine seasons and knows the system thoroughly.

"It was a hard decision," Kamehameha co-athletic director Erv Kau said. "I think it's the easiest transition since he's not wanting to be a career head coach."

Tannehill, 54, is a 1968 graduate of Kamehameha. He has been a junior varsity head coach and varsity assistant during Souza's regime. Tannehill's expertise leans more on defensive line, he said, but the big picture remains the same.

"What excites me most is working with young people, just trying to continue what Kanani has built. My purpose with Kamehameha has always been to serve," Tannehill said.

He will also assume the duties of assistant athletic director, which was another role vacated by Souza.

"I'm excited, nervous, scared," said Tannehill, who began his new role on campus yesterday. "I'm from that era of fear of failure."

Tannehill missed most of last season due to a knee replacement and a hip "revision," where his artificial hip was worked on. He managed to get back for two games in the postseason, working from the coaches' box upstairs.

His versatility and knowledge are significant factors.

"Wherever Kanani told him to fill in, he filled in. And I think the coaches respect him," Kau said.

Prior to Kamehameha, he was an assistant coach at Punahou.

Tannehill's occupation had been as an oculist, a maker of artificial eyes.

Souza departed for Oregon State recently, accepting a graduate-assistant coaching position on Mike Riley's staff. He returns to Kamehameha in January 2006. Kamehameha won the state championship last fall under Souza.

"I talked with Kanani yesterday, and he was with Cav," Tannehill said of Souza and former UH assistant coach Mike Cavanaugh, who is now with Oregon State. "Kanani said he's like a hog in slop, just having a great time."

Meanwhile, back at Kapalama Heights, Tannehill is ready to start the work.

"We're behind, but I'm cautiously optimistic everyone will be back," he said, referring to the coaching staff.

Kamehameha begins spring football practice in May.