Newport Harbor Football Opens 2026 Season in Hawaii with Special Return to the Islands
The Californer/10344360

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. - Californer -- Newport Beach, Calif. — Newport Harbor High School Football will begin its 2026 campaign in unforgettable fashion, traveling to Hawaii for a special season-opening matchup against Nanakuli High School on Friday, August 14, 2026, in Waianae, Hawaii.

The game marks more than just the start of a new football season. It represents a milestone experience for the Sailors program, combining competition, travel, team bonding, and the opportunity to represent Newport Harbor on a broader stage.

For the Newport Harbor community, the trip carries added significance. The Sailors' last journey to Hawaii came in 2022, when Newport Harbor earned an impressive 26-7 victory over Farrington High School on August 19, 2022. That trip created lasting memories for players, coaches, families, and supporters while showcasing the pride and tradition of Newport Harbor Football beyond California.

Now, four years later, the Sailors return to the islands ready to write the next chapter.

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"This is exactly the kind of opportunity high school football should create for young men," said Head Coach Matt Burns (https://www.tarfootball.com/coaches/matt-burns/). "Yes, we're excited to compete, but more importantly, we're grateful to give our players an experience they'll remember for the rest of their lives. Trips like this build brotherhood, perspective, and memories that go far beyond the game."

Beyond the Friday night matchup, the team will take part in several meaningful team-building experiences, including a visit to the Pearl Harbor Memorial, a traditional Hawaiian luau, and time together at the legendary North Shore for beach activities and fellowship. These moments are expected to become just as valuable as the game itself, strengthening relationships and creating lifelong memories for the players and coaches.

Their 2026 opponent, Nanakuli High School, brings pride, passion, and home-field energy as the Golden Hawks welcome the Sailors to Waianae for what promises to be a memorable opening-night atmosphere.

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"This trip is only possible because of the incredible support from our families, boosters, alumni, and community," said Newport Harbor Football Boosters President Sam Stremick. "We are deeply grateful for everyone who continues to invest in these young men. Opportunities like this shape lives, strengthen our program, and create memories our players will carry forever."

For Newport Harbor players, the Hawaii opener is about more than football. It is an opportunity to grow together, strengthen team culture, and experience something few high school athletes ever get the chance to do.

For alumni, parents, boosters, and fans, it is another proud moment for a program that continues to think bigger, compete harder, and create meaningful opportunities for its student-athletes.

As the countdown to kickoff begins, excitement is already building for a season opener unlike any other.

Newport Harbor vs. Nanakuli High School
Friday, August 14, 2026
Waianae, Hawaii