Waipahu, HI
Hawaiʻi high school football is officially back, and opening night delivered a statement. The Waipahu Marauders welcomed the defending state champion Campbell Sabers in a matchup that carried plenty of history, with the Sugar Cane Knife sitting in Campbell’s possession since 2004.
After 22 years, Waipahu finally had a chance to take it back.
After 22 years, Waipahu finally had a chance to take it back.
The Marauders wasted no time setting the tone, jumping out to a 17-point lead early behind an offense that came ready to attack. Arona Liaina opened the scoring with a 2-yard touchdown run before Jayse Braun connected with Jake Garcia on a 51-yard touchdown pass. Campbell managed to get on the board with a field goal before halftime, but Waipahu had already established control and never allowed the Sabers to completely settle in.
Waipahu continued to apply pressure after halftime, using a balanced attack that kept Campbell’s defense moving. Garcia finished the night 11 of 16 passing for 163 yards and two touchdowns, while Waipahu totaled 287 yards of offense. The Marauders also found success on the ground with 117 rushing yards, led by Elias Mahuka and Rocco Silofau, who each finished with 45 yards. Silofau added a touchdown, while Liaina contributed another touchdown through the air.
The receiving group gave Garcia plenty of opportunities, with Jayse Braun leading the way with four catches for 62 yards and two touchdowns. Lyric Anuenue added 46 receiving yards, while Ian Tutuvanu chipped in 25 yards. Aliʻi Togiaʻi Woodard also found the end zone on a 7-yard touchdown reception from Liaina as Waipahu continued to build its lead.
Campbell continued to fight back throughout the night, but Waipahu’s defense made it difficult for the Sabers to string together enough plays to close the gap. Campbell finished with 239 total yards, but managed just 22 rushing yards. Kenaniah Fiu led the Sabers with 6.5 tackles, while TJ Alualu added six. On the Waipahu side, Caleb Puletasi recorded two sacks as the Marauders continued to pressure Campbell's quarterbacks.
By the final whistle, Waipahu had done more than just open the 2026 season with a win. The Marauders had taken down the defending state champions and, after 22 years, reclaimed the Sugar Cane Knife. It was a statement night for Waipahu and a strong opening chapter to what could be a memorable 2026 season.
final score: Waipahu 40 - Campbell 17
for more pictures, head over to our photo gallery.
pictures taken by: Alan Velasco - @oscalev_
