HONOLULU (Sept. 17, 2013) – The Honolulu Pineapples held a news conference on Friday, Sept. 13 in Aloha Stadium introduced Hawaii’s newest sports team, and only NFL team. Wide receiver DeSean Jackson and Franchise Owner John Lowery represented the Pineapples. Both expressed confidence in the team’s ability to attract fans.
Doubts about the capability of Hawaii to maintain a culture of football fanaticism were present amongst the media. To combat those doubts, Lowery presented his excitement about attracting tourists to the fan base. A popular time for vacation in Hawaii is around Christmas, coinciding with football season. “We’re hoping that since they’re already there we can show them something different,” Lowery enthuses. Lowery has no doubts that locals from other islands in Hawaii will make the trip on game day as well.
Lowery was also positive about the location of the stadium. Aloha stadium is just two miles north of Honolulu International Airport. “This is especially helpful in our attempt to accommodate players, staff, and fans on their long travels,” said Lowery, “Do not let the distance concern you.” Jackson was quick to agree, “when you got a player like me, who’s gonna show up every weekend, [the fans are] gonna come.” Jackson brought in 29.3 fantasy points during Week 2 of the season.
Information about the franchise also included discussion of their stadium, capacity of 50,000. Lowery ensures that “[weather] was definitely taken into consideration when the stadium was constructed for the University of Hawaii.” As a movable stadium, to accommodate events from sporting events to concerts, the Pineapples will expand its use to create a long-absent NFL presence on the island.
To watch the full news conference, please click here.
Report: Jen Wernimont, Honolulu Star Advertiser (FeatureHonoluluStar@Advertiser.com)