The Centurions: 81-85

The Star-Bulletin's countdown of UH football's "Centurions" continues with numbers 81-85:

85. Kaulana Noa, offensive tackle
84. Jimmy Asato, back
83. Jim Cruikshank, lineman
82. Ed Riewerts, center
81. Abe Elimimian, defensive back

Dave Reardon profiles Jimmy Asato.

Asato played at UH from 1948 to 1951. Coach Tommy Kaulukukui saw a bit of his former self and promoted the freshman to the varsity midway through the season.

The four-year starter broke off long runs on a regular basis (often sprung by a Dick Carpenter block). He was two-time MVP, the greatest Rainbow of his time.

"So quick, great change of direction," says Star-Bulletin columnist Ben Wood. "Tough. He'd get all beat up but keep going."

Running back is rough on the body now, but think about it with the limited protective gear of the 1940s. Asato doesn't have to imagine.

"Maybe I got laid out for a game or two," he says. "I didn't wear a facemask. Then, Stanford game, broke my nose."