Honoring Polynesia’s mighty football history
Welcome to the Polynesian Football House of Fame. As you enter, you will see that you are walking over a bridge symbolizing our Hall of Famer’s journey over the sea to begin their professional careers. Every type of material was specially selected to represent their culture. You will find ohia logs, koa wood, lava rock, tapas and rough matting. The designer, Norm Harris utilized these materials to symbolize how the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame brings accomplishments of these famous and successful athletes back to their culture.
As you exit the tunnel, you will note a picture of hall of famers. Above, across the ceiling, is a wave – which brings you into the exhibit. The art on both sides is also created by Norm Harris. The one at the right represents tapa cloth, which symbolizes their connection with their Polynesian culture. The 4 stripes represent the threads of the football. On the left is Marcus Mariota’s frame, the 2015 Heisman Trophy winner. As the first Polynesian recipient, this fine young man carries a tremendous weight on his shoulders. He has expressed his desire to represent his people well. We think he is doing an amazing job!
The artistic canoe to the left of the entrance represents the journey of our Hall of Famers. The matting on the log and the ohia logs represent their culture.
Inside the main room of the exhibit are 12 display cases highlighting well known Polynesians in the world of professional football. Our first 5 honorees were inducted in January of 2015. Every year there will be 5 more inductees.
The mats under the display cases sit on a map. In the Polynesian culture, a mat is always placed on the floor for honored guests to use. We are equally honored that our inductees provide a proud and rich heritage for their exceptional athleticism.
You will note a special display case for Junior AhYou on his own wall. Junior is a local boy, and is very much beloved. He is a great contributor to the community, and generous with his time and his special love of the Polynesian culture. He and his family actually own Tita’s Grill. You will find one of their food trailers in the Hukilau Marketplace, and their main restaurant in Kahuku.
Each inductee has generously shared some of their memorabilia for our display cases and we are grateful for their interest and support. If you want to learn more about each inductee, touch the screen in front of their display case. While you’re listening, you will notice that the speakers are specifically designed towards the viewer, allowing them to hear the presentation no matter how busy or loud the surroundings.