While this year's Hawaii football team embarked on preparations for the new season, some of those who recently left the program will take a step toward the next phase in their careers today.

UH will hold its annual pro day at the Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif., this morning, where UH's prospects will work out for professional scouts.

Among those drawing the most interest will be center John Estes, a three-time All-Western Athletic Conference center and finalist for the Rimington Award. Estes played in the East-West Shrine Game in January, but wasn't invited to the NFL combine.

“;In the 12 years I've been here, I've never been as disappointed as John Estes not being invited to the combine,”; said UH associate coach Rich Miano, who coordinates pro day. “;So I think for him, it's a huge day, which is going to bring attention, and more scouts and more personnel people for the rest of our Warriors.”;

Miano, head coach Greg McMackin and offensive line coach Gordy Shaw left yesterday to attend pro day and will return in time for tomorrow's practice.

The list of former Warriors expected to take part in the tests and drills includes linebackers Blaze Soares and R.J. Kiesel-Kauhane, offensive linemen Aaron Kia, Raphael Ieru and Ray Hisatake, defensive linemen Victor Clore, Fetaiagogo Fonoti, Chris Leatigaga, Tua Mahaley, Rocky Savaiigaea and Tuika Tufaga, running backs Leon Wright-Jackson and Jayson Rego and receiver Jovonte Taylor.

“;It's what we've been fighting for since our last game,”; said Soares, who will take a leaner frame into pro day after training with Kiesel-Kauhane and former UH lineman Fale Laeli at Triple Threat Performance in Arizona. “;My dream was always to be an NFL player and it boils down to this one shot.”;

Offensive lineman Laupepa Letuli and linebacker Brashton Satele are also slated to take part. Both are awaiting rulings on their requests to the NCAA for another year of eligibility, but will test for the scouts in case their appeals are denied.

While teams measure height, weight and speed during pro day, Estes' body of work over the last four years also figures to factor into his prospects. Agent Kenny Zuckerman compares him favorably with other centers represented by Priority Sports, including Dominic Raiola, Olin Kreutz and Kevin Mawae.

“;He's going to be a great get for a team,”; Zuckerman said. “;There's been a lot of interest. He had a great East-West week. I think he showed he is able to handle 320, 340-pound guys. He has such great technique, great hands and balance. He's rarely on the ground.”;

Injury report

UH defensive end Elliott Purcell and cornerback Tank Hopkins are among those who sat out the first day of spring practice as they recover from offseason surgery.

“;We just don't want to take any chances. We're not going to push anyone that's injured,”; McMackin said.

Receiver Rodney Bradley, who suffered a broken leg last season, isn't part of the rotation yet as he continues his comeback. He caught a few passes and served as a stand-in in the secondary for the offense.