From YouTube to the field: The improbable story of Hawaii’s kicker

At 20 years old, Matsuzawa waited tables at Morton's Steakhouse before witnessing his first NFL game during a trip to the United States. Immediately, he became hooked on American football. With no coaches or tutors around, however, he browsed through clips on YouTube and Instagram to learn how to kick a football.

He gained enough traction online to land an opportunity at Hocking College, a junior college in Nelsonville, Ohio. Remarkably, Matsuzawa was unfazed by the transition from big-city living to small-town residency. Instead, he embraced the challenge of learning English and adapting to the United States’ culture.

Throughout his second year with the Hawks, Matsuzawa nailed 12 field goals with a long of 50 yards. The performance was good enough to be noticed by the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors, who needed a kicker in 2023.

Flash forward two years, and it was his time to shine. Matsuzawa converted on two PATs and all three of his field-goal attempts during Hawaii’s 23-20 win over the Cardinal.

Behind the arm of talented quarterback Micah Alejado, who knows what other special moments await Hawaii this season. One thing is certain: Matsuzawa’s journey is proof that dreams are always achievable, no matter how improbable they may seem.