LAHAINA — The Arthur Osamu “Oscar” Chihara Memorial Passion and Poise scholarship award returned this year to honor two Lahainaluna High School senior football standouts.

The recognition had been put on pause during the pandemic chaos, but returned this year to recognize the two Luna players that most exhibited the energy and control that characterized the spirit of the award.

Selected by the Luna coaching staff, the 2023 honorees are Jaysen Akahi-Vida and Keawe Kane-Keahi.

Head Coach Dean Rickard described Kane-Keahi as an all-around talent on the defensive line, saying, “Keawe definitely had the physical toughness and relentless play, but his speed off the edges and the ability to separate and evade blockers made him an integral part of our defense.”

Coach Dean continued to say, “Jaysen was the anchor of our offensive line and a ‘smash mouth’ blocker who enjoyed being on the gridiron. His unquestionable work ethic along with his off-season commitment allowed him to grow into the player he became, and he was always willing to do whatever was necessary for the overall betterment of the team. His positive leadership ability as team captain and his never quit mentality and football IQ were obvious.”

“Without a doubt, Keawe and Jaysen will certainly be missed next year, and we wish both of them nothing but success in their collegiate journey (to Whitworth and Western New Mexico University, respectively.). And, as always, we hope that their legacy inspires our younger players to pursue their goals and dreams with the same passion they did.”

Both student-athletes were awarded scholarship awards of $2,500 each and custom plaques created by Maui Marking Device.

The awards are funded by the Gorst/Compass Company and supported by Oscar Chihara’s friends and business associates Mike and Jane Heagerty, as well as the Chihara family of Lahaina.

Congratulations to both recipients and thank you for your commitment and contribution to Lahainaluna football!