HONOLULU (KHON2) — The loss of his mother during his UH football career only strengthened the meaning of “ohana” to Rainbow Warrior defensive back Peter Manuma.
This senior started his football career at Campbell High School, playing every position in the book — from quarterback, to linebacker, safety, running back and receiver.
“It definitely helped me, not only in the recruitment process, but just me trying to understand football more,” he said.
In his sophomore year of high school, Manuma received a call from then-UH football coach Nich Rolovich, who offered him a scholarship with the UH Rainbow Warriors.
“That was my first ever offer, that was my first time realizing that I can go further with football. And after that offer, I just decided to commit all my time and energy into football.”
And despite other offers from colleges across the country, Manuma never wavered in his decision to play at home.
“I just wanted to stay at home and be close to my family. Family is a big thing to me.”
Manuma joined the Rainbow Warriors as a freshman in 2022, the only freshman in the country to accumulate more than 70 tackles, two interceptions and a sack.
But in 2023, Manuma’s world was shattered when his mother died.
“I was a mama’s boy at heart, and you know, when it did happen, when she did pass, it affected me mentally, physically and whatnot,” Manuma said.
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The first person he turned to was one of his coaches and then his team.
“I just ultimately came to practice the next day. I didn’t know what to do. I didn’t want to just sit in my sorrows at home. So, I came to practice, and sure enough, everybody, you know, like I said it’s a family environment. There’s nothing but love; everyone’s talking you through it.”
And he felt strong enough to play in the next game.
“We ended up playing and I had one of my greatest games against Nevada that week, so I feel like it’s inspired me to take nothing for granted every day. I say my prayers before the game, I try to talk to her before the game, just go out there and know she’s got the best seat in the house.”
Now in his senior year, Manuma — husband and father — dreams of the NFL one day.
After that, he wants to use his degree in human development and family studies to inspire and help underprivileged youngsters and families.
“My biggest thing is family of course, and I just want to be able to help families that are less fortunate, as I came from one. If I can help one kid, or anybody out there to get to the NFL or to get what they dream of doing, that would mean the world to me.”
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KHON2 invites everyone to support Hawaii’s student athletes as we join the university for “Hawaii’s Team Drive,” a telethon and fundraiser.
The event is coming up on Tuesday, Sept. 9, during our newscasts. Stay with us for all the details on how you can help the home team.