CARSON, Calif. – The University of Hawai'i conducted its annual Pro Day for draft eligible football players at the Home Depot Center Thursday. Nearly two dozen former Warriors participated and were put through various tests for scouts and player personnel from the 32 NFL teams.
The event is organized by associate head coach Rich Miano, who is the team's liaison to the NFL and an 11-year league veteran having played for the New York Jests, Philadelphia Eagles, and Atlanta Falcons. Also attending were head coach Greg McMackin and offensive line coach Gordy Shaw.
Among the recent UH alumni participating were
Victor Clore,
Jo Pierre Davis,
John Estes,
John Fonoti,
Ray Hisatake,
Raphael Ieru,
Aaron Kia,
R.J. Kiesel-Kauhane,
Chris Leatigaga,
Laupepa Letuli,
Antwan Mahaley,
Jayson Rego,
Brashton Satele,
Rocky Savaiigaea,
Blaze Soares,
Jovonte Taylor,
Tuika Tufaga,
Leon Wright-Jackson.
Also participating were former Warriors Jakeen Hawkins, Nate Ilaoa, Fale Laeli,
Daniel Libre, and Erik Robinson.
The Warriors receiving the most interest were center
John Estes, offensive lineman
Aaron Kia, and linebacker
Blaze Soares, who has been mentioned as possible draft picks. Estes was a four-year starter who played in and started an NCAA-record 54 consecutive games. Kia was an two-year starter and second-team all-WAC left tackle while Soares was a first-team all-WAC selection after leading the team with 107 tackles in 2009.
Each participant was measured and went through various skills tests including the vertical jump, broad jump, 225-pound bench press, 20-yard dash, 40-yard dash, pro agility, 60-yard shuttle, and L-test.
For the past several years, the Warriors have conducted their Pro Day at the Home Depot Center, which is a closer proximity to the scouts than Honolulu. The NFL Draft is April 22-24 at Radio Music Hall in New York City.
A UH athlete has been selected in nine of the past 10 drafts, including a school-record five picks in 2007. Last year, three Warriors were selected; David Veikune, Ryan Mouton, and Jake Ingram.
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