Arizona Football’s Polynesian players bring Ohana and Aloha to Tucson
The University of Arizona Football program is currently basking in the glow of an impressive 6-3 record with three crucial games left in the season.
Not just making waves this season, Arizona Football has the potential to shock the world. This remarkable journey to success is driven by a combination of talent, coaching excellence, and a unique atmosphere of Ohana, full of Aloha.
Talent Meets Chemistry
The Wildcats’ impressive season can be attributed, in part, to the infusion of extraordinary talent from players like four-time Pac-12 Freshman of the Week quarterback Noah Fifita (pronounced Fa-Fee’-tah, accent on the FEE), wide receiver sensation Tetairoa McMillan (TMAC), tight end Keyon Burnett, and Lott Impact Player of the Week linebacker Jacob Manu, who all joined the Wildcats from Southern California powerhouse Servite High School.
What makes this group particularly remarkable is that they brought their families, or Ohana, and a spirit of Aloha, which represents love, with them to Tucson.
The chemistry and camaraderie these players share have significantly contributed to the team’s on-field success. Their ability to treat one another like family has fostered a sense of unity and purpose within the roster. The tight-knit bonds between players have translated into resilience and support, which is evident in their performances.
Head Coach Jedd Fisch hired a combination of coaches who all have the same goal, to win! Most if not all have NFL experience.
Additionally, Fisch has welcomed back Alumni like no other coach in recent years and it has just been an absolute pleasure for all involved. Seeing Chuck Cecil and Ricky Hunley on the field with huge smiles knowing they are part of the Wildcats’ resurgence would warm any Wildcat fan’s heart. Fans love their Alumni, and the Alumni feel welcomed and wanted, more Ahola all around.
A Sea of Love and Support
The culture of Ohana and Aloha extends far beyond the players themselves. Parents are not just individual supporters; they are a tightly-knit family that echoes the team’s sense of unity and love. This collective spirit has created an atmosphere of positive energy, not just on the field but within the broader Wildcat community.
Important to note, the Quarterback group is also cohesive, and that takes everyone to be on board no matter who is playing. We would like to give major props to Jayden de Laura for his attitude and the way he has handled his injury and supporting his fellow QB without drama. Jayden went to high school in Hawaii, at Saint Louis School in Honolulu, so he also understands what Ohana means and lives it.
A significant aspect of this love-filled environment is the strong connection between the players and their families and fans.
Asked UA quarterback Noah Fifita about the role his family has had in his journey growing up. “They’ve played the biggest role. … They have instilled the faith that I have. … I wouldn’t be here without my family.” pic.twitter.com/H0Tu4wLsKq
— Aidan Wohl (@aidan_wohl) November 7, 2023
Tucson has witnessed a resurgence of Wildcat football, with supporters showing up in droves to witness the team’s remarkable journey. Fans are not just attending the games; they’re staying for the entire duration, eager to be part of the exciting ride.
Field-Storming Moments
The enthusiasm of the fans reached its zenith when the ZonaZoo and loyal supporters stormed the field not once but twice after beating No. 9 Oregon State and No. 19 UCLA. After enduring a six-year post-season bowl drought and teams with losing records (1-11 last season), the Wildcats have learned how to sing the Bear Down song and the fans are now pros at jumping the wall to storm the field.
These jubilant celebrations were more than just moments of exuberance; they were manifestations of the deep-rooted love and belief in this Wildcats team.
Unity in Tradition: Lei and Cat Walk
Unity and tradition play a significant role in the Wildcats’ journey. The players and coaches are gifted and adorn themselves with Lei, a symbol of love and respect in Polynesian culture. A lei is a popular way to express love, friendship, celebration, honor, or greeting. In essence, it represents Aloha.
As players and coaches high-five their way through the Cat Walk, it’s not just a ritual; it’s an embodiment of the strong bond they share. Some coaches even wear their Lei on the sidelines, emphasizing their commitment to the team’s values. What makes these Lei’s even more special is that TMACs grandma or Mater Dei alumni Jacob Kongaikas‘ mom actually handcraft the Lei’s for their family. So it’s not just the team sharing love, the families share their generational and cultural love.
Playing for Each Other
Ultimately, the University of Arizona football program is thriving because the players are not just playing for themselves; they’re playing for each other, their families, and the passionate fans who are filling the seats. The Wildcats are a team united by love, respect, and a shared vision of success.
As the season approaches its climax with games against Colorado, No. 13 Utah, and their arch-rivals Arizona State, the Wildcats have the potential to achieve greatness. If the season thus far is any indication, their unique blend of talent, camaraderie, and the outpouring of love from the Ohana in the stands could very well see them shock the world.
The already bowl-bound Wildcats are on a remarkable journey, and the Wildcat faithful are in for an unforgettable ride.
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