Kaʻū News Briefs, Tuesday, July 4, 2023

Todd Marinovich, former USC and LA Raiders quarterback, is assisting with coaching the
Ka'u High Trojans, as well as 'Ohana Flag Football. Photo by Mark Peters

 'OHANA FLAG FOOTBALL LEAGUE HAS LAUNCHED for keiki in Kaʻū, led by former University

Luka Monk #5 and Shaizley Martinez #6
play flag football. Photo by Mark Peters

of Southern California quarterback Todd Marinovich, who led the Trojans to a Rose Bowl victory in his freshman year. He also served as Los Angeles Raiders quarterback. Now 54 years of age, Marinovich has made his home here and is also assisting with Kaʻū High School Trojans football.

    Marinovich started 'Ohana Flag Football after seeing many of his friends suffer from CTE, the progressive brain disease that often comes from head injuries in football. He said he is passionate about youth refraining from putting on helmets and pads until they are in high school. Flag Football helps to prevent head injuries because there is no tackling.
    The first session of 'Ohana Flag Football on July 1 drew more than 25 keiki to Pahala Ball Field, where the second session is set for Saturday, July 8 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The League will move to Na'alehu Ballpark on Saturday, July 15.
    'Ohana Flag Football will continue until Aug. 5 on Saturdays 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. A statement from the organizers says, "The emphasis is on kindness and providing a fun and safe environment for youth ages six to 12 to play football. This is free to all."
    For more information, contact Marinovich at 949-981-8268.

Former NFL quarterback Todd Marinovich has moved to Kaʻū and started Ohana Flag Football.
Photo by Mark Peters

VOLCANO VILLAGE HELD ITS ANNUAL FOURTH OF JULY PARADE on Tuesday. See photos below and more in the Wednesday Kaʻū News Briefs.

A sign of the time, July 4, the day of the annual Volcano Parade. Photo by Sara Espaniola

Miss Liberty and Uncle Sam show up every year at the Volcano July 4 parade.
Photo by Sara Espaniola

Revelers lined Old Volcano Hwy and Wright Road and greeted The Village Church
Photo by Sara Espaniola

Wheels of Justice appear to hold up the American flag. Photo by Sara Espaniola

A Color Guard brings in the flag. Photo by Sara Espaniola

Tow truck becomes a flag bearer. Photo by Sara Espaniola

Grand Marshal John Verbiske with an affordable ride.
Photo by Sara Espaniola

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