The second annual Life Champion Senior Bowl provided a memorable experience for over 100 seniors that were playing in their final game of their prep career Saturday night.

Players from all over the state got one last opportunity to showcase their abilities in front of family, friends and nearly 20 college coaches at Paiea Stadium on the Big Island campus of Kamehameha schools.

"It feels pretty good to be here knowing that you've been someone that was selected," said Kauai's Keala Iwasaki. We're all winners here because we gained new experiences and learned new things."

The event — which is put on by the Hilo-based Hawaii Football Club — saw many players that faced off against each other during the season get to be teammates on either Team Alpha or Team Legacy.

"Once you get out on the field you guys feel like brothers," said Konawaena's Cameron Howes, who caught a spectacular 36-yard touchdown pass from Radford's Quintin Iriarte to give Team Alpha a 16-13 lead in the fourth quarter. Radford defeated Konawaena 48-46 in the Division II state semifinals.

"You're practicing with each other, throwing balls and bonding out there. Football is just a great sport and is an easy way to make long time relationships whether it's around the world or across the state."

Punahou's Laakea Look, who had four tackles and a fumble recovery for Team Alpha, echoed Howes' thoughts. 

"I think this event is really special because we all represent one state when we go off to college," he said. "It's just a nice feeling to get to know everybody and stretch our connections."

The event also provided an opportunity for players from smaller and lesser-known schools to shine against players that played in a tougher league or division.

"It just shows how much talent we do have here in Hawaii," said Lono Kanongataa, a member of Division I state champion Kahuku. "We have a lot of kids that get overlooked, but do really good."

One player who had an impressive performance in the contest was Waialua's Royce Tashiro, who passed for 153 yards and one touchdown in Team Legacy's 27-16 win.

"It's a big opportunity and a great feeling to represent everyone back at home," said Tashiro. "It's a great feeling knowing that Waialua is getting out there." 

Brendan Namba, a defensive back from Roosevelt, also had a big game with an interception and a game-high two pass breakups.

"It's a great privilege to be here," he said. "It's just a once in a lifetime experience. It was great to live it out."