Still Pinching Myself

I still can't believe that I am about to start my professional football career. I pinch myself every night because I can't believe I am living this dream. For a guy who didn't start playing football until my second year in college I sure have come a long way.

When I was heading to the University of Hawaii out of high school I was offered a scholarship by June Jones. I played basketball in high schools and I weighed maybe 200 pounds so I really don't know what he saw in me. When I was going into UH I started working out with the football team to stay in shape before basketball season. When Coach Jones offered the scholarship my dad turned it down. I thought he was crazy turning away a free education, that's a lot of money. But he told me he did not want me to be given anything. If I was going to get a scholarship I needed to earn it.

After playing basketball my first year I decided I did want to play football and Coach Jones welcomed me to the team. He still had the scholarship for me but I wouldn't take it. I was a walk on until my junior year. I'll never forget the day when I did earn the scholarship. Coach Jones announced it in front of the team and it was the same emotion I felt when I got the call from the Lions. It was really unbelievable.

The decision my dad made really taught me to always work hard. The fact that he was paying for schooling just made me work harder for him.
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19 Comments On: "Still Pinching Myself"

 
Congratulations! Inspiring story to say the least. It's a great pleasure when you feel like you really earn something on your own and then can keep the ball rollin' towards great success. We'll be rootin' you on!

It sounds like your Dad knew what was good for you. It sounds like his NFL career helped prepare you for yours. Good luck.

June Jones is a good guy. Sounds like your dad ain't half bad either! Like the old cliche here in the Midwest, it's 10% inspiration and 90% perspiration.

WOW! Not only are you an amazing athlete, but also a grateful and inspiring person! I just joined this site to become more informed with the NFL so I can follow and support Barry Stokes since he is my brother in Christ :) But anyway, Your comment was literally the first one I read and now you have me hooked and I'm roooooootin' for you as well!!!! By reading a little bit about you, I can tell that God has blessed you with many gifts and a great family.... I'm soooo excited for you and i'm looking forward watching you!!!! Prayers goin up big shot.... one love and blessings......... Rebecca (*_*)

Congrats man! I bet it's WAYY different in Detroit then in Hawaii, haha but I'm sure your loving every minute of it, I wish you all of the luck in the world (except against the Vikings) haha just kidding, but Good luck and i hope to see you in a starting role in the near future!!

Your dad is an awesome guy. What he did made sure you truly appreciate the opportunities you had with Coach Jones and the UH Warrior football team. Wishing you the best on your new career in the NFL with the Lions!

Sup- IKAIKA? Mahalo for barking in the yard cuz. Good luck to you this season! Holla!

Nice Job Man!

Matt.

Good luck, Ikaika. I think you'll be able to make an impact for your team really quickly.

You are living the dream for all of us! Congradulations on making into the NFL. Now the truly hard part; making it IN the NFL. Coaches lover players who work hard, so just keep working hard, paying attention to detail and you will survive. My prayers are with you, Tim..

I know that's a great feeling you're having sweetie.......Keep smiling, I know you are.

I'm so glad you're in Detroit! We need high class guys like you! You have a great story!

Ikaika we're all pulling for you! Keep working at it. Can't wait to see you playing on Sundays. It's just around the corner! Good luck from all your Warrior fans!!!

Ikaika
We are soooooooo proud of you. Luv ya man!
Uncle Bill

hi kaika.

it's me naomi.

i'm so happy i can keep up wit you
wit yur blog.

!!!

well.

keep writing.

i like reading dis stuff!

love you.

-naomi

aye um uncle stan
wants to know if you got your computer yet???
we heard that your mom got you one.

so yeah.

weL0VE&&miss you.

take care.

-naomi
&&uncle stan.

You going to be barking anytime soon ?

Ikaika- Your Uncle Tracy is sooo proud of you! I got to visit with him in the hospital just before he passed and he spoke about you and the NFL. He knew THEN!
Warmest aloha, LizKauai

Go, Ikaika!

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