Leilehua vs Waipahu | Hawaii High School Football | August 8

Friday night lights in Hawaii are always special, but some matchups carry an extra spark. That’s exactly what fans can expect on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 7:00 PM, when the Waipahu Marauders host the Leilehua Mules at Waipahu High School. This non-conference showdown pits two proud programs from O‘ahu against one another in what promises to be a fierce and exciting early-season battle.

Although both teams come into this game with a clean 0-0 record, there’s plenty of underlying narrative and local pride on the line. With passionate fanbases, historical rivalries, and emerging talent, this is more than just another game — it’s a litmus test for what’s to come in the 2025 Hawaii high school football season.

Watch live on the NFHS Network!

A Local Showdown Full of Tradition and Grit

Leilehua and Waipahu share a rich history in the landscape of Hawaii prep football. Both programs hail from Central O‘ahu and have developed generations of tough, disciplined athletes. While this game may not count toward league standings, it certainly matters in the hearts and minds of the community.

The matchup is being played at Waipahu High School, giving the Marauders home-field advantage. But don’t expect Leilehua’s Mules to be fazed — they travel with pride and play with passion no matter the venue.

Team Capsules

Leilehua Mules

2024 Recap:
Leilehua finished the previous season with a respectable effort, but not without its growing pains. Ranked 976 nationally and 8th in the state, they were a team in transition — balancing veteran leadership with up-and-coming talent.

Program Strengths:

• Strong Defensive Identity: Year after year, the Mules build their game plan around aggressive, hard-nosed defense.
• Stability and Coaching: Leilehua has one of the most respected coaching staffs in the state.
• Physical Front Seven: Their defensive line and linebacker corps often control the trenches.

Key Players to Watch:

• Keanu Silva (QB) – A senior leader known for his poise and football IQ. Silva has a good arm and is mobile when flushed from the pocket.
• Tama Ioane (RB) – Tough between the tackles, elusive in space. He’s the kind of back who can carry the load and keep defenses honest.
• Koa Hanohano (LB) – The heart of Leilehua’s defense. Expect him to be everywhere — sideline to sideline, setting the tone.

Waipahu Marauders

2024 Recap:
Waipahu had a season full of ups and downs, finishing 10th in the Hawaii rankings and 1,186 nationally. Despite the record, they remained competitive in every game and have built a foundation that could spark a breakout in 2025.

Program Strengths:

• Athletic Skill Players: Waipahu has no shortage of speed at the skill positions.
• Big Play Potential: This is a team that can change the game with one well-timed pass or special teams return.
• Youth Movement: They’ve built their roster around underclassmen now ready to shine as upperclassmen.

Key Players to Watch:

• Makoa Kaimi (QB) – Dual-threat with an electric first step and underrated arm strength.
• Jordan Fehoko (WR) – A deep threat with great hands and excellent route running.
• Liko Palekana (DB) – Ballhawk in the secondary with a knack for making game-changing plays.

Coaching Matchup

Leilehua is led by Coach Kaleo Kaeo, a former player who understands what it means to wear the green and gold. His leadership philosophy blends old-school toughness with a modern understanding of offensive and defensive schemes. He emphasizes accountability and fundamentals.

Waipahu’s sideline is commanded by Coach Andrew Matu’u, an energetic and passionate leader who’s not afraid to take chances. Matu’u’s teams are often fast-paced, well-prepared, and never back down from physical play. His offensive creativity could be the x-factor in this contest.

Game Preview & Key Storylines

1. Opening Night Jitters or Fireworks?

Both teams will be feeling the adrenaline of a new season. The first quarter could be a chess match — or a shootout — depending on how the opening drives unfold.

2. Quarterback Showdown

Silva vs. Kaimi is a compelling QB matchup. One is a savvy pocket passer, the other a dual-threat athlete. Whichever quarterback settles in first will give his team a massive advantage.

3. Special Teams Could Decide It

In a tight contest, look for big returns, blocked kicks, or field position battles to make a difference. Both teams have speed and awareness on their special teams units.

4. Turnovers Will Be Crucial

Early-season games are often defined by who makes fewer mistakes. A costly interception or fumble in the second half could swing the momentum permanently.

Predicted Starting Lineups (Unofficial)

Leilehua Mules (Offense)

• QB: Keanu Silva
• RB: Tama Ioane
• WR: Kekai Lyman, Nalu Kealoha
• OL: Laakea Ahuna, Pono Wong
• TE: Manu Kekaulike

Waipahu Marauders (Offense)

• QB: Makoa Kaimi
• RB: Isaiah Kalani
• WR: Jordan Fehoko, Hoku Alama
• OL: Elijah Solomona, Mateo Fatu
• TE: Kainoa Moe

Fan Expectations & Atmosphere

Waipahu High School is expected to be buzzing with excitement. From alumni to younger fans, families, and community members, the turnout will be strong. Add in cheerleaders, school bands, and food vendors offering local grinds, and you’ve got an atmosphere that is uniquely Hawaiian.

Fans from both sides will show up in force. Leilehua supporters are known for traveling well, and their chants will echo across the stands. Waipahu fans will answer with passion and pride in defending home turf.

What’s at Stake?

While it’s technically a non-conference game, this matchup has real meaning:

• Momentum into the season
• Player confidence and rhythm
• Community bragging rights

This game could also serve as a statement. Win here, and a team positions itself as a real threat going forward in the 2025 campaign.

Game Prediction

This is a close one to call. Waipahu has the home advantage, but Leilehua’s discipline and experience might carry them through in crunch time. Expect a fast, physical, and emotional game — the kind that can swing on a single possession.

Final Score Prediction:
Leilehua 27, Waipahu 21

Look for big plays in the 4th quarter and a late defensive stop from the Mules to secure a hard-fought win.

Game Day Essentials

Date: Friday, August 8, 2025
Kickoff: 7:00 PM
Location: Waipahu High School
Tickets: Available at GoFan
Match Type: Non-Conference
Teams: Leilehua Mules vs. Waipahu Marauders

There’s something magical about Friday night football in Hawaii. With palm trees swaying in the breeze, the smell of grilled food in the air, and the roar of a local crowd, the stage is set for another memorable chapter in the Leilehua vs. Waipahu rivalry. Both teams have a lot to prove and plenty of talent to put on a show.