Kahuku DB Kawehena Johnson recorded three tackles and two interceptions and added a 53 yard score off of a lateral. ScoringLive file photo

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Melissa Ing, Aven Santiago | SL

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As he had done all season long for the Kahuku Red Raiders, Kawehena Johnson made his presence felt on both sides of the ball once again, this time on the state's biggest stage, playing for the HHSAA Division I football championship.

The senior defensive back/quarterback/wide receiver was all over the place against the Buffanblu defensively, recording three tackles and two interceptions. He also was instrumental in limiting Punahou's top receiving threat, sophomore Kanawai Noa, to just 6 catches for 82 yards and no scores.

"Coach has been telling us about number 9 (Punahou's Noa), get over the top of number 9." said Johnson. "I just listen to what the coaches tell me and came out on top."

He also made an impact on offense, adding 5 rushes for 30 yards, and scoring on from 53 yards out on a lateral following an 11 yard completion to Will Cravens from Lasi Livai.

"From the huddle, I knew Lasi was going to make the throw, and I knew Will Cravens was going to make the catch." explained Johnson. "I just had to do my job and catch the lateral."

Kawe did make the catch and raced past the Punahou secondary along the left sideline for the touchdown with just seconds left before halftime to stretch the lead to 21-0.

"They all did their job, so I came out successful. Well, we all did." said Johnson.

When asked about his reaction to the win, Kawe paused, then looked briefly in the direction of his teammates.

"Just look at them, they celebrating. It just puts a smile on my face that's my reaction," said a beaming Johnson.

TOP PERFORMERS - WEEK 15

Lahainaluna QB Makoa Filikitonga Lukela, Jr. rushed for 103 yards and 2 TDs and passed for 77 yards and another score against Iolani.

Iolani QB Reece Foy passed for 299 yards and 5 TDs against Lahainaluna.

Iolani WR Chad Hanaoka had 6 receptions for 50 yards and 3 TDs against Lahainaluna.

Kahuku DB/WR Kawehena Johnson recorded 3 tackles and 2 interceptions, rushed for 30 yards, and ran a lateral 53 yards for a TD against Punahou.

Iolani RB Yuuya Kato rushed for 103 yards and added 4 receptions for 76 yards against Lahainaluna.

Iolani DB Max Look recorded 13 tackles against Lahainaluna.

Iolani DB JT Los Banos recorded 4 tackles and 3 interceptions against Lahainaluna.

Lahainaluna WR/DB Scott Medeiros-Tangatailoa recorded 5 tackles and 2 interceptions and added a 26 yard TD reception against Iolani.

Iolani WR Tanner Nishioka had 8 receptions for 134 yards and 2 TDs against Lahainaluna.

Kahuku LB Matai Paselio recorded 6 tackles and 2 sacks against Punahou.

Lahaianaluna RB Jared Rocha-Isalas rushed for 106 yards against Iolani.

Kahuku DB/WR Lasselle Thompson recorded 6 tackles and an interception and added 2 receptions for 49 yards and a TD.

Punahou RB Ryan Tuiasoa rushed for 118 yards and 3 TDs against Kahuku.

Lahainaluna RB Christian Whitehead rushed for 101 yards against Iolani.

Kahuku RB Aofaga Wily rushed for 188 yards and 3 TDs against Punahou.