Micah Kaonohi‑Kaihenui, a senior tight end for the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, has earned a spot on the 2026 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watch List, a recognition that highlights his combined excellence in community service, academics and athletics.
A Dual Commitment to Service and Scholarship
The watch list, which includes 113 Football Bowl Subdivision players from across the nation, celebrates individuals who go beyond the gridiron. Kaonohi‑Kaihenui’s involvement in local food drives and coastal restoration projects exemplifies the spirit of the award.
Balancing a demanding football schedule with a psychology major, he was named to the 2025 Academic All‑Mountain West team and has earned the distinction of a three‑time Mountain West Scholar‑Athlete, underscoring his commitment to scholarly achievement.
On the field, Kaonohi‑Kaihenui proved indispensable as a key contributor on the Rainbow Warriors’ special‑teams unit during the previous season, helping the squad secure critical moments throughout the campaign.
The selection process will continue with eleven watch‑list participants being chosen for the Allstate American Football Coaches Association Good Works Team in September. Those semifinalists will then contend for the Wuerffel Trophy, with the 2026 recipient set to be announced on December 11 at The Home Depot College Football Awards.