Three years after being named Hawai’i High School Football Player of the Year, Kahuku graduate Kainoa Carvalho is coming home. The standout wide receiver and kick returner has signed with the University of Hawai’i as the 14th member of its early 2025 signing class.
Known as “Kai-Kai,” Carvalho spent the past two years on a church mission in Japan following a stellar high school career that included leading the Red Raiders to two state championships. His junior season earned him the Cover2 Marcus Mariota Award as the state’s Player of the Year.
Originally signed with the University of Utah out of high school, Carvalho remained in contact with UH receivers coach Jared Ursua during his mission. Ultimately, his desire to represent his home state brought him back to Hawai’i.
“They say you can take the boy from the island, but you can’t take the island from the boy,” Carvalho said. “Being here in Japan and telling everyone I’m from Hawai’i, it has an impact. Knowing I can come back and represent the state and the people here, it’s just a blessing. Hawai’i has given me so much, and I’m excited to give my all for the people who have supported me and my family.”
Carvalho is the first of nine Marcus Mariota Award winners to sign with the Rainbow Warriors. When asked about the significance, he expressed pride and a hope to inspire others.
“I actually didn’t know that,” he said. “But I’m super excited, and I hope this sends a message to keep island boys home. Stay for the home team, represent the state, and play some big-time football. Go ‘Bows!”
Carvalho will complete his mission in Japan at the end of April and plans to enroll at UH in May. He will participate in player-led practices ahead of fall training camp, which begins in late July.
The addition of Carvalho adds a dynamic playmaker to Hawai’i’s roster and strengthens the message of keeping top local talent at home. For a look at the other members of the 2025 recuriting class, click here.
The recruiting class will be completed with the second signing period which starts on February 5, 2025.