Each year since 2006, MaxPreps has recognized outstanding performers in high school football. America's source for high school sports continues the tradition to close out the 2021 season by naming the top player in each state. Selections are based on team success and individual excellence, in addition to local and state accolades.
Kainoa Carvalho of
Kahuku is the 2021 MaxPreps Hawaii High School Football Player of the Year. The 5-foot-7, 160-pound junior wide receiver helped the Red Raiders to a 10-0 record and Open Division state championship.
Carvalho helped Kahuku beat St. Louis (Honolulu) 49-14 in the title game, catching six passes for 135 yards and two touchdowns. He also converted all seven point-after attempts. The win snapped St. Louis' run of four consecutive state titles.
For the season, Carvalho finished with 64 receptions for 1,023 yards and 10 touchdowns. He finished first in the Open Division in receptions, receiving yards and tied with teammate
Kealoha Kaio for the lead in receiving touchdowns. He added two rushing scores, five return touchdowns and made two field goals to go with 45 PATs.
Kainoa Carvalho looks for daylight during a game against Wai'anae.
Photo by Steve Phang
