PFHOF to stage first-annual Polynesian Bowl all-star game

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - If Saint Louis Crusaders quarterback Tua Tagovailoa continues to perform the way he did last Friday against Punahou, one might expect to see him play in the final game of Hawaii's high school football postseason.

The state championship, however, won't be the final time Tagovailoa takes to the field at Aloha Stadium in his high school career.

Tagovailoa and at least 30 other nationally-ranked prep athletes from across the country have already committed to play in the first-annual Polynesian Bowl, a high school all-star game being sponsored by the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame.

The Polynesian Bowl will be played on Saturday, January 21, 2017 as part of the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Weekend. Hawaii News Now has signed on to air the game locally.

The previous two Polynesian College Player of the Year Award recipients, Tennessee Titans Quarterback Marcus Mariota and Baltimore Ravens Offensive Tackle Ronnie Stanley will serve as team captains and select players at a draft luau.

"Honoring my heritage is very important to me," said Mariota. "I look forward to working with the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame to make this the best high school all-star game in the country. This will give our Polynesian players opportunities and exposure that is much needed."

Each player will receive air fare to Hawai'i, lodging, meals, ground transportation, Nike apparel, a Riddell helmet and shoulder pads and will participate in Polynesian cultural and educational activities throughout game week.

"The Polynesian Bowl will be a great addition to the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Week festivities," said Jesse Sapolu, Chairman and Co-Founder. "It will be a meaningful experience and an opportunity for all participants to learn more about our Polynesian culture."

For more information on the game, visit www.PolynesianBowl.com.