Livai bids aloha to Kahuku football

His legacy includes four state titles and four alumni in the NFL

For 10 years, algebra teacher Siuaki Livai tackled one of the most complex tasks imaginable in Hawaii high school sports -- head football coach at Kahuku High School -- with passion and simplicity.

In the end, one of those attributes, simplicity, also became a rallying point for detractors.

Yesterday, when he announced his resignation, it was unclear on what terms Livai was leaving the helm of the Red Raiders program. As a coach, though, he undeniably changed the landscape of Hawaii high school football.

Livai, 46, led the Red Raiders to four of the last six state championships, including their most recent crown in December. The algebra teacher leaves with a 102-20 win-loss mark.

The victories included a 2000 state championship win over Saint Louis that released a 15-year private school stranglehold on the top perch in local prep football.

Livai's reign has been at times almost as controversial as successful, including diminishing support from some of his assistant coaches.

But Livai said he is leaving on his own terms.

"I promised my wife the past few years, every year, that it would be my last," said Livai, who has a family of 12, including foster children. "I've been neglecting responsibilities at home with my family."

In addition, he could not conceive the continuation of coordinating and coaching in the off-island football events (the Samoa Bowl and Kingdom Bowl games) while still in position at Kahuku.

"It wasn't an overnight decision. I discussed it with my family. For the past week, I've tried to picture life without the job, and I felt joy," Livai said. "And whoever takes over will do a great job."

Athletic Director Joe Whitford said the school will name a replacement within a month. Former Kahuku head coach Doug Semones and former defensive coordinator Byron Beatty, and current junior varsity coach Reggie Torres are among those who might apply.

Hawaii High School Athletic Association Executive Director Keith Amemiya said Livai will be missed.

"Siuaki's commitment and devotion to his players and the program are unparalleled," Amemiya said. "And he doesn't always get the proper recognition for what he does, especially behind the scenes. He oversaw the team's study-hall programs. He took them on weekend camping outings.

"He's brought nationwide recognition to the program and the state."

Under Livai's watch, Kahuku football evolved into a higher force not just locally. On a national scale, the program could not be ignored. Five former Red Raiders play in the National Football League today (four played under Livai), a number topped by no other high school. In February, 11 players signed with Division I universities to play football.

Kahuku ranks second in the nation in the number of current Division I-A players.

"That's the ultimate goal, to move on to college. Football is just a vehicle," Livai said.

He plans to remain at Kahuku as a math teacher and help the football program "any way I can."

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