Several time zones away, preparing for a huge UFC showdown, Max Holloway thought about Hawaii’s high school student-athletes.
As the UFC’s No. 1 contender in the featherweight class, Holloway is prepping for a battle with No. 6 Calvin Kattar next week. Before Holloway departed from his training grounds in Las Vegas, he shared his thoughts about the young athletes whose fall and winter sports seasons have been cancelled by leagues across the state due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Stay positive, guys. Tough times don’t last. Tough people do. I know it’s hard for a lot of those kids. A lot of them wait for a chance at scholarships,” said Holloway, a 2010 graduate of Waianae High School.
He referred to Miami Dolphins linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill, the Kamehameha graduate who played at Eastern Illinois.
“Kamu only started playing in 11th or 12th grade, so it means a lot to them. Stay strong. Hopefully, the state can find a way. If not, make your own way,” Holloway said. “Be the author of your own path.”
Holloway was a paddling champion back in the day with Na Keiki O Ka Mo‘i Canoe Club.
He also suited up on the diamond, playing for Waianae’s baseball squad. This is a boxscore from 2009. Research provided by Jerry Campany.
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