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Henry Ikahihifo - 2024 Polynesian Football HOF College Player of the Year

Graphic showing image of Henry Ikahihifo and text For Polynesian Football Hall of Fame College Player of the Year
The Polynesian Football Hall of Fame College Player of the Year award would mean the world to me. One of my goals that I told Coach Choate was I want to end my college career with this award. And I want to make sure I get this award not only for me but for my family.
-Henry Ikahihifo

Nevada defensive lineman Henry Ikahihifo made his return to Nevada in 2023, after previously spending the 2019-20 seasons in Reno. His journey back to action for the Wolf Pack has taken several turns since first leaving after the 2020 campaign. Stops at College of the Canyons and California helped Henry see that his playing destiny lay on the defensive side of the line, and he returned to Nevada ahead of the 2023 season prepared to make an impactful final college campaign. But his path was changed--Henry was denied a waiver from the NCAA which would grant him immediate eligibility in 2023. But, he leaned strongly on his foundation of family and strength, drawing upon the lessons of his Tongan heritage and upbringing, and persevered through a whole fall season and spring season, preparing for the day he would return to game action.

With the 2024 season on the horizon, Henry Ikahihifo sets his sights on having a career year for the Wolf Pack, and capturing an award that means the world to him: Polynesian Football Hall of Fame College Player of the Year.

Henry Ikahihifo flexes his arm, while in a standing pose
Henry Ikahihifo has waited nearly a year to return to the field and play the game he loves. Practicing, working, but having to stand on the sidelines and watch--and, after the Wolf Pack's 2024 Spring session, he is just months away from making his return. This spring, Henry spoke to Nevada Sports Net's Shannon Kelly about his preparation for his return.
The pride that Henry takes in his Polynesian culture is evident--the way that he prepares the extended family that is our locker room and the Warrior Spirit that this young man exhibits is tied to his heritage and I know how proud he is of that.
-Nevada Football Head Coach Jeff Choate
Henry Ikahihifo in a defensive pose
Henry Ikahihifo stands on the sideline
Henry Ikahihifo putting his helmet on on the sideline
Henry Ikahihifo celebrating a play on the sideline
Henry Ikahihifo flexes his arm, while in a standing pose