It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Kahuku Sugar Mill in Kahuku, HI gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Kahuku, HI is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Ernel was very; helpful, knowledgeable, empathetic and professional yet affable. Her understanding and compassion, along”
“I love how office workers are reachable, friendly & helpful. I would love to get”
“After years of refusing In-home Care due to cost, My dad finally agreed to try”
“I am a current client of this provider They help me out a lot. I have good”
“I am a current client of this provider With my dad's everyday needs, especially bathing they”
“Tyler and his team are great! Love working with them.”
“After hiring the services of Always Best Care for approximately 70 consecutive days, I wanted”
“Always Best Care Senior Services have helped me in caring for my uncle while I”
“The new care we have is the best one I could ever ask for!! ”
“The worker was professional,,caring and punctual.”
“The new care we have is the best one I could ever ask for!! ”
“My aunt has been living in a nursing home for the last five years. In”
“Highly skilled, reliable and loving caregivers. They are the only agency to provide consistent care”
“We feel very blessed to have found Always Best Care! Tyler and his staff are”
“We feel very blessed to have found Always Best Care! Tyler and his staff are”
“Thank you Always Best Care for being a trusted parter with our transportation company. Looking”
“Thank you Always Best Care for being a trusted parter with our transportation company. Looking”
“I am a current client of this provider She will clean and she cooks. I like that”
“I am a current client of this provider She will clean and she cooks. I like that”
“Best home care agency so far! My dad is a was veteran who has been”
“Always Best Care has been caring for my husband for almost a year now. The”
“I highly recommend Always Best Care. When we needed their service, Marcus was able to”
“Staff was very professional and considerate of my needs. Response time and answering my questions”
“Ernel was very; helpful, knowledgeable, empathetic and professional yet affable. Her understanding and compassion, along with the friendly professionalism she displayed, really is helping to assuage my angst during this difficult time. I am looking forward to working with her concerning the care of my aging mom in the future. Onward & upward….!????????”
“I love how office workers are reachable, friendly & helpful. I would love to get a service for them in the future. I worked here as a NA for almost 6 months already and this is the best agency out of 4 agencies I been to. They have a very efficient schedule, good team work, and appreciates or value their workers. I’m proud to say I’m part of this team.”
“After years of refusing In-home Care due to cost, My dad finally agreed to try Always Best Care to take him to see his doctors. At 95, my dad is not an easy person to get along with let alone for a stranger to be with him for a few hours and transporting him, with his walker, to and from the hospital. My dad just called and he is thrilled with his caretaker Madeleine for her kind attitude and helpfulness. I'm relieved that he has found a trusted person that can take him to see his doctors. I began talking to Ernel, the manager, about two months ago regarding this type of service for my dad and we stayed in touch. Ernel was always friendly and professional and was able to get Madeleine for my dad in very short notice. Tita, the administrator, followed up with all the contracts and statements and I'm now enrolled into their online system. Overall, the 5 star rating is well deserved. Aging is not fun. Watching my dad struggle with his daily routine is difficult. Having good people around like Always Best makes it a bit easier for the both of us. Thank you.”
“I am a current client of this provider They help me out a lot. I have good service from them that improves my health.”
“I am a current client of this provider With my dad's everyday needs, especially bathing they have helped. They are easy to work with, get ahold of, and communicate with us well. The people they sent have been good.”
“Tyler and his team are great! Love working with them.”
“After hiring the services of Always Best Care for approximately 70 consecutive days, I wanted to give the company a detailed review. I can honestly say I unequivocally and without hesitation, would recommend Always Best Care as a home health care agency. A vast majority of the caregivers are very conscientious and punctual. The company keeps our family very well informed via their "Family Room" function on their website. The administration and office staff are very thorough and meticulous. Special recognition to office staff (Marina, Abby, and Tita). A+++ company!!!!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services have helped me in caring for my uncle while I get more time to do my other affairs. I know he is in the best care and really appreciate their services.”
“The new care we have is the best one I could ever ask for!! She cares so much for my husband and is always there when he needs her to be. She is truly a angel that was sent to me by your company and I thank you so much for hiring her!! Aloha Jeff & Freda Pohaku”
“The worker was professional,,caring and punctual.”
“The new care we have is the best one I could ever ask for!! She cares so much for my husband and is always there when he needs her to be. She is truly a angel that was sent to me by your company and I thank you so much for hiring her!! Aloha Jeff & Freda Pohaku”
“My aunt has been living in a nursing home for the last five years. In the last year however, we have seen her health and cognitive abilities slowly decline. A social worker asked us to seek extra help from a home care agency to provide additional caregivers due to her growing needs. They provided our family with some options, but in the end, highly recommended Always Best Care. We asked other residents in the facility who were also using ABC, and they too recommended the agency . My aunt has been so pleased with her caregivers and we appreciate the entire staff at ABC. Their communication is outstanding, caregivers are compassionate and reliable and they always go out of their way to accommodate our changing needs. I highly recommend Always Best Care.”
“Highly skilled, reliable and loving caregivers. They are the only agency to provide consistent care for my dad who is receiving VA benefits.”
“We feel very blessed to have found Always Best Care! Tyler and his staff are very helpful, caring and pleasant to work with. I love that they can be reached 24/7 and are quick to find a caregiver for my sweet 90 year old mother, even at the last minute! True to their name, they always give their best care! I highly recommend you check them out! ????”
“We feel very blessed to have found Always Best Care! Tyler and his staff are very helpful, caring and pleasant to work with. I love that they can be reached 24/7 and are quick to find a caregiver for my sweet 90 year old mother, even at the last minute! True to their name, they always give their best care! I highly recommend you check them out! ????”
“Thank you Always Best Care for being a trusted parter with our transportation company. Looking forward to working with you and the wonderful team at ABC in the many years to come.”
“Thank you Always Best Care for being a trusted parter with our transportation company. Looking forward to working with you and the wonderful team at ABC in the many years to come.”
“I am a current client of this provider She will clean and she cooks. I like that the caregiver is on time and she completes her job.”
“I am a current client of this provider She will clean and she cooks. I like that the caregiver is on time and she completes her job.”
“Best home care agency so far! My dad is a was veteran who has been receiving in home care for awhile now. Our past experiences with other agencies have always been inconsistent. It's been difficult finding an agency who can provide experienced and reliable caregivers. However, the VA introduced us to Always Best Care about 6 months ago. Since then, we have been so pleased with the services they've provided. The office staff are so accessible and easy to talk to and the caregivers are second to none. They really enjoy their work and love working for the company. This really says a lot about ABC as a company, who treats their employees well. We feel safe and in good hands.”
“Always Best Care has been caring for my husband for almost a year now. The caregivers are so companionate, respectful and extremely reliable. The office staff are wonderful to work with. They stay in constant communication with my family and are always willing to go above and beyond what they are required to do. I recommended ABC to many of my friends and family members. Thank you!”
“I highly recommend Always Best Care. When we needed their service, Marcus was able to get us set up right away. Their caregivers provide my mom with excellent care. They help her with task around the house, meal prep, exercise, etc. Their staff is very friendly and accommodating. My mom looks forward to seeing them every day. I know my mom is good hands with Always Best Care.”
“Staff was very professional and considerate of my needs. Response time and answering my questions was timely. The services are very affordable. I recommend you contact them at the earliest opportunity to get a medical professional assigned to you & confirmed. I had no issues with them here.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Kahuku District Park in Kahuku, HI with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Seven Brothers - Kahuku "At the Mill" or visit Opana Radar Site Memorial, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
Request More Information
While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Kahuku, HI, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Kahuku, HI understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Kahuku, HI 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
St. Louis and Kahuku, despite already playing each other, seem to be destined to meet again in the Open Division championship down the road. Both programs have tested themselves with juggernaut, out-of-state programs like Mater Dei, St. John Bosco and Bishop Gorman.Here are the latest Top 10 high school football rankings in Hawaii as of September 23, 2025:1. Saint Louis (3-1)The Crusaders put up a decent game against No. 1 St. John Bosco (CA), falling 49-20. Wins over local Kahu...
St. Louis and Kahuku, despite already playing each other, seem to be destined to meet again in the Open Division championship down the road. Both programs have tested themselves with juggernaut, out-of-state programs like Mater Dei, St. John Bosco and Bishop Gorman.
Here are the latest Top 10 high school football rankings in Hawaii as of September 23, 2025:
The Crusaders put up a decent game against No. 1 St. John Bosco (CA), falling 49-20. Wins over local Kahuku and Mililani keeps St. Louis at No. 1 | Next: vs. Punahou
The Red Raiders have played a national schedule, taking on Bishop Gorman (NV) and Mater Dei (CA). Both resulting in losses, but there's nothing Kahuku won't have seen the rest of the way. | at Leilehua
The Trojans only loss is to No. 1 St. Louis, and are coming off a 48-12 win over Farrington on Sept. 13. | Next: at Campbell, Saturday
Kap has played a tough schedule, including a Southern California Los Alamitos team that is still unbeaten. However, two straight losses to Kahuku (HI) and St. John's (DC) will look to be quickly erased this week. | Next: vs. Farrington
A 31-30 win over Punahou shows the Warriors are capable of a deep playoff win. Brady Lau had a big game, scoring the game-winning touchdown. | Next: BYE
Brayden Medeiros threw for 149 yards and three TDs to give Campbell a 41-20 win over Leilehua on September 13. | Next: at Mililani
The Buff n' Blue have a couple weeks to prepare for St. Louis on Oct. 11. | Next: BYE
The Marauders are coming off three straight blowout wins. The most recent was a 56-25 win over Moanalua. | Next: at Wai'anae
Could the Seariders' unbeaten record be at stake this weekend against Waipahu? | Next: vs. Waipahu
Keenan Alani tossed for 243 yards and five TDs in a 61-6 win over Honokaa. Kainalu Alves added 134 yards and one TDs. | Next: at Keaau
PREVIOUS RANKINGS
As a refresher, here's what happened during the 2024 high school football season in Hawaii.
Saint Louis returned to glory in the Open Division, Kap?‘a captured its first state crown in Division I, and Kamehameha Maui won Division II.
Junior back Titan Lacaden ran like a man on a mission — 31 carries, 155 yards and two touchdowns — helping St. Louis control tempo and flip the script on Kahuku’s recent dominance.
It was Saint Louis' first state title since 2019.
In one of the season’s best endings, Kap?‘a outlasted Konawaena in overtime, 10–7, to win its first-ever Division I state title. Micah Rapozo’s 33-yard field goal was the walk-off winner in a gritty, defensive slugfest.
For the first time ever, Kamehameha-Maui hoisted a football state title trophy, steamrolling Kaiser 37–14 in the Division II final. Junior star Zedekiah Campbell ran for 239 yards on just 18 carries.
After watching rival Kahuku run the state for three straight seasons, St. Louis reminded Hawaii who built the Open Division standard. Behind a bruising ground attack and a big-game defense, the Crusaders beat Kahuku 17–10 to win the Open Division state championship at Clarence T.C. Ching Complex.
The Warriors scored 17 unanswered in the second half and left no doubt.
QB BREAKS STATE RECORD
Quarterback Jaron?Keawe Sagapolutele of Campbell High put together a jaw-dropping season: 3,404 passing yards, 46 touchdowns, just three picks. His final career tally? 10,653 yards — a new Hawaii state record, passing Dillon Gabriel, the former Oregon and Oklahoma standout.
Sagapolutele was named the Polynesian High School Football Player of the Year.
One of the stunning storylines out of Hawaii came in the spring when Sterling Carvalho stepped down from being the head coach at Kahuku with a 59-18 record. Carvalho was 59-18 in his six seasons at the helm and took the Red Raiders to four straight state championship finals. He won three Open Division state titles in a row from 2021 to 2023. (STORY)
Kahuku won 32 consecutive games against Hawaii opponents starting in 2021, but the program's greatest feat under Carvalho was when the Red Raiders stunned top-ranked St. John Bosco (CA) — the defending national champions at the time — 30-23 at home in September of 2023.
There are two programs to keep an eye on in 2025: Kahuku and St. Louis. The two storied programs in Hawaii are favored by various media outlets to be the Open Division state champion by the end of the 2025 season.
On3 Massey has Kahuku No. 1, citing its elite defense and experience at QB. ScoringLive Hawaii has St. Louis as its No. 1 team, leaning on its returning championship roster, high-level offense and a winning pedigree.
To get live updates on your phone — as well as follow your favorite teams and top games — you can download the SBLive Sports app:
SANTA ANA — Few expected Mater Dei would be clinging to a one-point lead at the half against Kahuku, which travelled 2,500 miles from Honolulu to take on the top-ranked team in the nation.Even fewer could have predicted the game would come down to an on-sides kick.But the Monarchs were forced to recover one with 40 seconds remaining to preserve their 21-18 victory against Kahuku at Santa Ana Stadium.“We’re not used to being in close games as much,” Mater Dei coach Raul Lara said. “So, hats o...
SANTA ANA — Few expected Mater Dei would be clinging to a one-point lead at the half against Kahuku, which travelled 2,500 miles from Honolulu to take on the top-ranked team in the nation.
Even fewer could have predicted the game would come down to an on-sides kick.
But the Monarchs were forced to recover one with 40 seconds remaining to preserve their 21-18 victory against Kahuku at Santa Ana Stadium.
“We’re not used to being in close games as much,” Mater Dei coach Raul Lara said. “So, hats off to Kahuku for staying in the game and making us earn the game.”
The margin of victory was especially surprising considering Bishop Gorman, which is ranked No. 2 in the nation behind Mater Dei in USA Today’s Top 25, went to Oahu last weekend and pounded the Red Raiders, 38-0.
“We played a lot better tonight,” Kahuku interim football coach Nihoa Pule said. “We were more dialed in on both sides of the ball. Bishop Gorman, we were on the field quite a bit defensively. Still, an awesome team to play against.”
The Monarchs are scheduled to travel to Bishop Gorman on Sept. 19, but they still need to get past Centennial next Friday, Sept. 12, in another road test.
“We just need to get in a rhythm offensively,” Lara said. “Once we get in rhythm, then we’re going to be fine.”
Mater Dei (2-0) appeared to seal the victory when Malachi Roby scored on a 3-yard run with 2:27 remaining to extend the lead to 21-10.
The Red Raiders marched down the field, however, and made it a three-point game with a 32-yard touchdown strike from Troy Mariteragi to 6-foot-6 wide receiver Christian Sanford-Tupuola, followed by a successful quarterback sneak on the 2-point conversion.
Kahuku attempted the on-sides kick, but Mater Dei wide receiver Koen Parnell covered it up.
“We needed to do a better job of executing,” Lara said of the offense. “If we do a better job of executing, obviously we’ve got a lot of talent. We’ve just got to get these guys the ball and here we go.”
After the Red Raiders went three-and-out on their first drive of the game, Mater Dei went 63 yards on four plays on its first possession, scoring on a 20-yard touchdown pass from Ryan Hopkins to Gavin Honore just 1:42 into the game.
Shaun Scott ran in the two-point conversion to make it 8-0.
Mater Dei lined up for a 38-yard field goal on their third drive, but after an offsides penalty on Kahuku, the Monarchs sent their offense back on the field on fourth-and-7, but Hopkins threw the ball over the head of wide receiver Chris Henry Jr. and out of bounds.
Mater Dei got the ball back near midfield, but Hopkins was intercepted by safety Madden Soliai, a UCLA commit, who stepped in front of Kayden Dixon-Wyatt on a post pattern.
The Red Raiders then marched 76 yards in 13 plays, getting a first down on third-and-12 with a 26-yard pass from Mariteragi to Sanford-Tupuola, and another first down on fourth-and-6 with a 21-yard pass from Mariteragi to Kea Lerner.
Kahuku was on the 7-yard line when Mariteragi rolled out and faked a handoff before throwing the ball back against the grain to wide open tight end Rhino Aumua for the touchdown with 32 seconds left, cutting the lead to 8-7.
“I feel like we kept our composure,” Mater Dei running back Kennie Leggett said. “There was no type of doubt.”
Kahuku (Hawaii) travels to No. 1 nationally-ranked Mater Dei (Calif.) on Friday, Sept. 5, 2025 at Santa Ana Stadium.How to watch: You’ll need a subscription to NFHS Network, a nationwide streaming platform, to watch Friday night’s contest.With NFHS Network, you can watch games at any time from anywhere — both live and on demand — from any device.Here’s what you need to know:What: High School FootballWho: Kahuku vs. Mater DeiWhen: Friday...
Kahuku (Hawaii) travels to No. 1 nationally-ranked Mater Dei (Calif.) on Friday, Sept. 5, 2025 at Santa Ana Stadium.
How to watch: You’ll need a subscription to NFHS Network, a nationwide streaming platform, to watch Friday night’s contest.
With NFHS Network, you can watch games at any time from anywhere — both live and on demand — from any device.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: High School Football
Who: Kahuku vs. Mater Dei
When: Friday, Sept. 5 (9/5/25)
Time: 10 p.m. ET
Where: Santa Ana Stadium (Calif.)
Live stream: NFHS Network
A subscription to the NFHS Network is $13.99 per month or $79.99 per year (a 53% discount to subscribe annually). The network often runs early season promos.
Yes, the NFHS Network is available on smart TV devices like Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Google TV.
You can also watch events via the NFHS website or with NFHS Network Mobile Apps for iOS and Android.
1) Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.)
2) St. John Bosco (Bellflower, Calif.)
3) Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas, Nev.)
4) St. Frances Academy (Baltimore, Md.)
5) Grayson (Loganville, Ga.)
6) IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.)
7) American Heritage (Plantation, Fla.)
8) Duncanville (Texas)
9) Buford (Ga.)
10) St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.)
11) Mission Viejo (Calif.)
12) Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, Calif.)
13) Edna Karr (New Orleans, La.)
14) Corner Canyon (Draper, Utah)
15) DeMatha (Hyatsville, Md.)
16) Bergen Catholic (Oradell, N.J.)
17) Santa Margarita (Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif.)
18) Southlake Carroll (Southlake, Texas)
19) Grimsley (Greensboro, N.C.)
20) North Crowley (Fort Worth, Texas)
21) Centennial (Corona, Calif.)
22) Thompson (Alabaster, Ala.)
23) Orange Lutheran (Calif.)
24) Cass Tech (Detroit, Mich.)
25) Carrollton (Carrollton, Ga.)
Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription.
DRAPER, Utah, Sept. 5 — The No. 1 Mater Dei Monarchs beat the Kahuku Red Raiders, 21-18, Friday night.Mater Dei enters the game having taken an unexpected bye week when last week's opponent was unable to field a team due to suspensions.Kahuku, meanwhile, is in the middle of a brutal two-game stretch. The Red Raiders lost, 38-0, at home to the No. 2 Bishop Gorman Gaels last week.Now, they hop on a plane and fly to the mainland to take on the nation's top-ranked team...
DRAPER, Utah, Sept. 5 — The No. 1 Mater Dei Monarchs beat the Kahuku Red Raiders, 21-18, Friday night.
Mater Dei enters the game having taken an unexpected bye week when last week's opponent was unable to field a team due to suspensions.
Kahuku, meanwhile, is in the middle of a brutal two-game stretch. The Red Raiders lost, 38-0, at home to the No. 2 Bishop Gorman Gaels last week.
Now, they hop on a plane and fly to the mainland to take on the nation's top-ranked team.
__________
Refresh for updates
__________
And Kahuku can't convert the onside kick, and that's your ballgame in Santa Ana, California. What a game, and what an effort from the boys from Hawaii's North Shore.
FINAL — MATER DEI 21, KAHUKU 18
__________
But Kahuku isn't done yet. They answer and convert the 2-pointer to pull within a field goal with under a minute to play.
4th Qtr — MATER DEI 21, KAHUKU 18
__________
Mater Dei adds a touchdown to put Kahuku on the ropes
4th Qtr — MATER DEI 21, KAHUKU 10
__________
Kahuku continues to hang around late. They add a field goal, to trim Mater Dei's lead.
4th Qtr — MATER DEI 14, KAHUKU 10
__________
Kahuku gets another stop deep in their own territory, but Mater Dei adds another field goal. Still, all in all, that's a win for Kahuku getting the stop there.
4th Qtr — MATER DEI 14, KAHUKU 7
_________
Kahuku gets a huge fourth-down stop deep in their own territory. Mater Dei gets a field goal, but it could have been worse.
End of 3rd Qtr — MATER DEI 11, KAHUKU 7
_________
We're under way in the second half.
__________
And we've got a shocker here tonight. Mater Dei leads by a single point at the half.
Halftime — MATER DEI 8, KAHUKU 7
__________
Definitely a score that will turn heads around the country. Kahuku is hanging tough with the nation's No. 1 team, trailing just 8-7 in the second quarter.
2nd Qtr — MATER DEI 8, KAHUKU 7
__________
And Kahuku limits the damage through one quarter.
End of 1st Qtr — MATER DEI 8, KAHUKU 0
__________
After a quick Kahuku possession to start the game, Mater Dei marches quickly down field and takes an early lead.
1st Qtr — MATER DEI 8, KAHUKU 0
__________
We're under way!
__________
Coming soon!
__________
OUR PRESEASON ALL-AMERICA TEAMS ...
Finally, don't miss out on The Sporting News Preseason All-American Teams that just debuted today!
__________
MORE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL HEADLINES ...
No. 1 Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.) slipped by Kahuku (Hawaii) 21-18 on Friday night. After an early Mater Dei touchdown from Ryan Hopkins to Gavin Honore, the Red Raiders defense kept the Monarchs out of the end zone until Malachi Roby scored with 2:27 left to put the game away.Kahuku UCLA commit Madden Soliai intercepted a Mater Dei pass and the Red Raiders took advantage. With under a minute left in the first half Troy Mariteragi hit Rhino Aumua to cut the lead to 8-7.Mater Dei drove down the field multiple times in the seco...
No. 1 Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.) slipped by Kahuku (Hawaii) 21-18 on Friday night. After an early Mater Dei touchdown from Ryan Hopkins to Gavin Honore, the Red Raiders defense kept the Monarchs out of the end zone until Malachi Roby scored with 2:27 left to put the game away.
Kahuku UCLA commit Madden Soliai intercepted a Mater Dei pass and the Red Raiders took advantage. With under a minute left in the first half Troy Mariteragi hit Rhino Aumua to cut the lead to 8-7.
Mater Dei drove down the field multiple times in the second half but were held to field goals as the Kahuku defense led by Talanoa Ili held firm.
Kahuku had its best chance to tie midway through the fourth quarter by driving to the Mater Dei 12-yard line, but ended up settling for a field goal to cut the lead to 14-10 with 5:58 left.
The Monarchs ran the ball every play on its next possession and it ended as Roby scored the touchdown with 2:27 left.
Kahuku wasn't done and rolled down the field to score a touchdown with 40 seconds left. The ensuing onside kick was unsuccessful and Mater Dei ran out the clock.
No. 2 St. John Bosco (Bellflower, Calif.) used two second half touchdowns to defeat No. 4 St. Frances Academy (Baltimore, Md.) 21-14.
Down 14-7, Braves sophomore quarterback Koa Malau'ulu hit four-star senior Madden Williams with a touchdown to tie, and then found senior Carson Clark for the go-ahead score late in the game.
St. John Bosco four-star junior Isala Wily-Ava intercepted the final St. Frances Academy opportunity late in the fourth quarter.
Malau’ulu finished with three touchdowns on the day. St. Frances Academy jumped out to a 14-7 lead after Jaylen Burke ran for a 51-yard touchdown followed by a 19-yard scoring run by quarterback Jae'Oyn Williams.
Chaminade-Madonna (Hollywood, Fla.) took down No. 7 American Heritage (Plantation, Fla.) 28-24 on Friday night as four-star senior Jasen Lopez hauled in the game-winning touchdown pass with 2:42 left from freshman quarterback Malik Leonard. The Lions got a stop on defense in the redzone to seal the win.
American Heritage jumped out to a 24-14 lead as five-star Texas pledge Dia Bell tossed three touchdowns, two of which went to Jeffar Jean-Noel. Chaminade-Madonna cut the deficit to 24-21 when four-star Texas commit Derrek Cooper scored his third touchdown of the day. The Lions defense got another stop to get the ball back and win when Lopez caught the pass from Leonard.
No. 8 Duncanville (Texas) defeated South Oak Cliff (Dallas) 35-28 as Maximus The Great Denson threw three touchdown passes. South Oak Cliff came into this game on fire after a 41-31 win over North Shore last week. Down 35-21 against Duncanville, running back Torrin Teague rushed for a 76-yard touchdown with 2:34 left to play. The Panthers were able to run the clock out and win.
Zach Turner, Trenton Yancey and Emmanuel Ellison caught Denson's touchdown throws while Brayden Arnold found the endzone twice for the Panthers. Levon Morton had a great night for South Oak Cliff and scored two touchdowns.
No. 16 Bergen Catholic (Oradell, N.J.) held on to defeat West Boca Raton (Boca Raton, Fla.) 21-14. After trailing 7-0, the Crusaders scored three straight touchdowns to go up 21-7 late in the fourth. Sophomore quarterback Trey Tagliaferri threw for three touchdowns. Austin Busso caught two of them and Bryan Porter caught the third one.
Basha (Chandler, Ariz.) pulled the upset over No. 23 Orange Lutheran (Orange, Calif.) 30-24. The Bears led 24-0 at halftime as quarterback Brodie Vehrs threw for a touchdown and ran for another. Defensively Kaden Williams returned a blocked kick for a touchdown.
Orange Lutheran went out and scored 24 straight points in the second half to tie the game up with a passing and rushing touchdown from quarterback Reagan Toki. The Lancers then scored a defensive touchdown to tie the game. With 2:44 left, Basha put the game away on a Joshua Gaines touchdown run.
No. 24 Cass Tech (Detroit, Mich.) needed overtime to defeat Grandville 31-28. Fabian Garza hit the overtime field goal. Running backs Carson Lovett and Julian Taylor each scored two rushing touchdowns.
MaxPreps Top 25 National Scoreboard
No. 1 Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.) vs. Kahuku (Hawaii)Friday, 7 p.m. (All times local) - Watch live NFHS Network
Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Idle
Friday, 8 p.m.
Friday, 7 p.m.
Friday, 7 p.m.
808-207-8558
