EL PASO, Texas » Early in his high school days, David Veikune envisioned himself someday playing at Aggie Memorial Stadium.

Veikune lived in Las Cruces from the seventh grade to his sophomore season at Onate High School before relocating to Hawaii.

Now a senior defensive end with the Hawaii football team, Veikune returns for today's Western Athletic Conference game at New Mexico State.

“;I remember growing up and wishing I could play on that field, and now it's a reality,”; Veikune said. “;It's a treat to go back home.”;

Today's game will be Veikune's second visit to Las Cruces as a Warrior. The Campbell graduate had one tackle as a reserve in UH's win in 2006, and is playing a more prominent role in the Warrior defense this time around.

Veikune leads Hawaii with 10 1/2 tackles for losses, including 4 1/2 sacks in the last two games. He'll be a key part of a Warriors defense looking to contain the WAC's top passing game.

This week's trip also brought UH receiver Mike Washington back to his roots.

Washington's family was stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso during his childhood.

“;It was some of the best years I had, staying here in Fort Bliss,”; Washington said. “;I was here for 2-3 years and had a lot of friends out here.”;

Having gotten acclimated over a week in El Paso, the Warriors enter their final road game of the season looking to avoid being swept on a two-game mainland swing that started with a loss at Utah State a week ago.