Hawaii celebrates Polynesia’s football legends and future stars

George D. Szigeti, president and CEO of the Hawaii Tourism Authority

George D. Szigeti, president and CEO of the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA), issued the following statement commenting on the celebration of Polynesia’s football’s heritage and future with the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Ceremony and Polynesian Bowl taking place January 19 and 20.

“The Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Ceremony and Polynesian Bowl are the world’s premier events honoring Polynesia’s football legacy and its future.

“We extend our aloha to this year’s inductees into the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame, and to their families, for earning this prestigious honor that will live forever. The Hall of Fame inductees are much more than heroes for their impressive football accomplishments. They have been role models to the next generation of football players and community members who have followed in their footsteps, both Polynesians and non-Polynesians.

“Our congratulations also go out to the young men who are playing in the Polynesian Bowl, and to their families for all they have contributed to help them achieve this success so early in their life. We look forward to seeing them develop as athletes and, more importantly, to grow into adults and role models that inspire the next generation of young men and women who follow them.

“We are blessed to have so many outstanding football talents, role models and mentors of Polynesian ancestry throughout the country. Their admirable qualities and strength of character comes from their parents and families, the way they were raised, and support they received within their communities.

“The Hawaii Tourism Authority is proud to support this inspiring celebration of Polynesia’s football heritage. The Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Ceremony and Polynesian Bowl epitomize what we seek to accomplish with our sports marketing strategy by supporting local events highlighting Hawaii’s traditions and distinctiveness as a place, people and community of islands.”