By Chad Fukuoka

Since I was a little kid, I’ve always been a fan of the Hawaii football team. I remember going to promotional events and participating in activities before the games. The passing and kicking events were usually the most fun. After going to the games for several years, my family finally got a pay-per-view package that included the entire 2007 Hawaii football season. This meant I could relax and watch the games on television and wouldn’t require spending the entire day in the stadium parking lot waiting for the game to start. Although I wouldn’t be around the fans and enjoy the atmosphere, the T.V package was much more convenient.

Hawaii entered the 2007 season with an amazing offense led by Colt Brennan and a noticeably weak schedule, making an undefeated season very likely. The season opener, along with many of the games were easy, decisive wins. A couple games were decided in overtime or in the final seconds. Hawaii met the expectations of their fans and many football experts or analysts. Their biggest challenge, the final game against Washington, saw Hawaii rally from an early 21-0 deficit to win and clinch an undefeated season. The next day it was announced Hawaii would play in the Sugar Bowl, their first BCS game.

I knew going to the Sugar Bowl was a once in a lifetime experience, so I spent a week in New Orleans to attend the game. The city was incredible and the fans were very nice and friendly. Even the opposing Georgia fans talked and spent time with me before the game. The Sugar Bowl turned out to be a complete mismatch as Hawaii lost 41-10. Hawaii played a team with superior talent and was given a dose of reality, it was clear they didn’t belong with the elite teams of college football. However, the trip was lots of fun and the attractions were entertaining. The experience left me anxious for the 2008 season to start, along with the rest of the Hawaii fans.