Hawaii to play at Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex starting in 2021

Hawaii Rainbow Warriors football has been in a state of unknown these last few weeks. No, not another coaching change, but for reasons few college football programs can relate to: due to Aloha Stadium being shutdown, Hawaii football has nowhere to play.

Fear not, Hawaii has found a solution, one that will last at least three seasons.

The University of Hawaii is moving forward with plans to play football at Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex starting this upcoming fall. The release states that, “The Athletics Department is working with the UH-Mānoa Office of Project Delivery to design plans that would increase the seating capacity; replace the existing turf, install a new scoreboard and speaker system; upgrade the press box; and other amenities needed to host Division I college football games.”

Also of importance, Athletics Director Dave Matlin noted that Hawaii will be playing home football games at the Ching Complex, “...for at least the next three years.”

Hawaii’s local government is not known for its swift action and development of major projects, meaning three seasons might seem long, but could prove to be an optimistic projection when it’s all said and done. Expect Hawaii to be playing at the Ching Complex for the foreseeable future.

The NCAA requires an average attendance of 15,000 fans once every two years to remain Football Bowl Subdivision Status. Hawaii did not specify any number of seats, but one would assume Hawaii will be aiming to meet those requirements.

Fans, media have speculated options for the displaced Warriors. Ching Complex, Las Vegas, Maui, but ultimately Hawaii will opt for something few thought we’d ever see: Hawaii playing home football games on campus at Manoa.

This undertaking will begin as soon as possible with Hawaii aiming for the September 4th home opener against Portland State as the debut date of the boosted Ching Complex. Details such as parking, tickets, etc. will be made known at a later date on social media.

Get comfortable, Rainbow Warriors fans. The Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex will be home for several years to come.