Adapt and Advance: Hawaii Football Coach Vows Innovation Amid Challenges
In the venerable “Iron Church” of Klum Gym, located within the University of Hawaii’s 67-year-old athletic facility, the football team showcases its resilience and determination. Despite the outdated equipment that was temporarily relocated during renovations to the modern Waterhouse Sports Performance Facility, the Rainbow Warriors remain steadfast in their training regimen. They lift weights, execute pulls and pushes, and engage in curling exercises, using facilities that seem untouched by time. Even during breaks from practices, meetings, video sessions, and strategic planning, head coach Timmy Chang prefers the rugged authenticity of the Iron Church over the convenience of the newly upgraded facilities.
Chang, a pivotal figure at his alma mater since assuming the head coaching position in 2022, emphasizes a philosophy that echoes throughout the program: “You don’t need a lot to do a lot.” His dedication extends beyond the football field as he takes the scenic route home each day, adhering to a policy of diligence and commitment that mirrors his approach to developing the Warriors into a competitive force.
Reflecting on his journey to becoming the 25th head coach of the University of Hawaii football team, Chang acknowledges the challenges and learning curves inherent in his role. His coaching career began humbly, spurred by an invitation from Mililani High School coach Rod York to assist and coach while navigating the financial strains of early coaching life, including relying on food stamps to support his family. These formative experiences shaped Chang’s perspective, instilling a resilient mindset and a steadfast determination to succeed against all odds.
Chang’s path back to Manoa, where he had previously excelled as a record-setting quarterback under the tutelage of June Jones, was marked by perseverance and a deep-seated passion for the game. His tenure as a graduate assistant at SMU under Jones provided invaluable insights and prepared him for the challenges of collegiate coaching.
Upon his return to Hawaii as head coach, Chang faced the daunting task of rebuilding a team that had been depleted by transfers and disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these setbacks, Chang focused on fostering team cohesion and community engagement, drawing inspiration from the strategies employed by his predecessors, including Nick Rolovich and June Jones.
Under Chang’s leadership, the Warriors experienced a transformative season marked by strategic adjustments and a renewed focus on the run-and-shoot offensive scheme—a system deeply ingrained in Hawaii’s football tradition. Chang’s adaptation of this high-octane offense, originally pioneered by Mouse Davis and refined by June Jones, reflects his commitment to maintaining the program’s identity while modernizing its approach.
In revamping the coaching staff, Chang prioritized continuity and expertise, bringing in seasoned mentors like Dan “Smooth” Morrison and Dennis McKnight to fortify the offensive line and quarterback coaching positions. These appointments underscore Chang’s strategy of surrounding himself with experienced professionals who share his vision for the program’s growth and success.
Defensively, Chang sought to implement an aggressive, attacking style reminiscent of the schemes employed by Jerry Glanville and Greg McMackin during their tenures with Hawaii. The addition of Dennis Thurman, a former NFL defensive coordinator known for his innovative strategies, further enhanced the team’s defensive capabilities and set the stage for a more competitive season ahead.
As Chang enters his third year at the helm of the Hawaii football program, he embraces the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead with a seasoned perspective. His goal remains clear and unwavering: to lead the Warriors to victory and elevate the program to new heights within the competitive landscape of collegiate athletics.
Through his leadership in the “Iron Church” and beyond, Timmy Chang embodies the resilience, dedication, and passion that define the University of Hawaii football team. His journey—from a promising young quarterback to a respected head coach—serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the enduring spirit of aloha that permeates the Warriors’ quest for excellence on and off the field.