Kansas football: Loss of former Jayhawk stuns current and former players
The Kansas football community was stunned Sunday afternoon by the news of former Jayhawk Isi Holani passing at the age of just 24 years old.
Today is a sad day for anyone involved in the Kansas football program, whether they’re a coach, player, or fan. Defensive lineman Isi Holani played for the Jayhawks under head coach David Beaty from 2016 through 2018, and it was announced that Holani has died at the age of 24. The cause of death has not been released.
Holani was a Kaumana, Hawaii native and he transferred to Kansas after attending Riverside Community College. After totaling seventeen tackles and a pair of sacks during his two seasons, Holani graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in General Studies in Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Understandably, the news of Holani’s passing has generated reactions from his former teammates and coaches. Former Kansas football defensive lineman Daniel Wise spoke on Twitter regarding he and Holani’s friendship:
"“I’m truly lost for words, just don’t doesn’t seem real. My great friend Isi Holani was called home early yesterday. He was a true warrior, a great man, friend and brother. Always in good spirits, and full of life! Love you bro.”"
Many other players and coaches have also expressed their sadness over Holani’s death, including Hakeem Adeniji, Clint Bowen, Chris Hughes, Kameron McQueen, Jelani Brown, and many others. Current Kansas head coach Les Miles summed it up best regarding the loss of Isi and the impact on the program:
"“Myself and the Kansas Football family are saddened by the loss of one of our very own. He was a great member of our program and will always be remembered for his dedication to the Jayhawks. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. May you Rest In Peace, Isi Holani.”"
As the team attempts to overcome this tragedy and prepare for their season, Holani will undoubtedly be on everyone’s mind as Kansas gears up for Coastal Carolina in less than three weeks.