Giovanni Iovino, a linebacker for the University of Hawaii, received an unexpected scholarship during the live broadcast of the “Timmy Chang Show” on October 25, 2023. The announcement came as a surprise while Iovino was present to support teammate Jalen Smith, marking a significant milestone in his athletic career.
Moment of Recognition
During the show, Chris Brown, associate head coach and linebackers coach, called Iovino to the head table. He praised Iovino’s impressive performance, specifically highlighting his 41-yard interception return for a touchdown against Sam Houston. Following this recognition, Brown announced that Iovino had been awarded a scholarship, eliciting a heartfelt response from the athlete.
“It was an awesome experience,” Iovino reflected. “I’m forever grateful.” The scholarship represents a significant achievement for Iovino, who has previously navigated his college career as a walk-on at both Washington State and the University of San Diego.
A Journey of Dedication
Iovino’s journey to this point has been shaped by several pivotal moments. Initially a walk-on at his previous institutions, he emphasized the importance of receiving this scholarship, stating, “It’s everything. I’ve been a walk-on guy my whole college career. Getting that scholarship by my name is pretty cool.”
His transfer to the University of Hawaii this summer was influenced by his connections to Bishop Gorman, a renowned high school football program in Las Vegas. In 2021, Brown, who was then involved with Bishop Gorman, recommended Iovino to the former coach of Washington State, Nick Rolovich. After a coaching change at Washington State, Iovino made the decision to leave and spent two years with the University of San Diego, an FCS program, where he completed his bachelor’s degree.
With aspirations to return to the FBS level for his final season, Iovino sought out opportunities at UH, where he had maintained close relationships with several former Bishop Gorman players, including linebacker Jamih Otis and quarterback Micah Alejado. He expressed a strong desire to rejoin the Lion’s Den, the nickname for the UH linebackers.
Embracing the Team Culture
Brown noted Iovino’s strong fit within the team, emphasizing the discipline and toughness he seeks in his players. “He wanted to come back to the Lion’s Den. He saw what we were building here, what we were doing,” Brown stated. “He knows my mentality. He fits right in there.”
Upon committing to UH, Iovino shared his longstanding connection with Brown, saying, “I’ve known him since I was 14 years old. He’s like family to me. He treats me like that.” This bond has fostered a deep level of trust, enabling Iovino to feel confident in his decision to join the program.
Reflecting on his transition to UH, Iovino remarked, “I felt something was special here. And the guys — the coaches, the staff, my teammates — as soon as I came in … it was like home. It was one of the best decisions I made in my life.”
As Iovino prepares for the remainder of the season, the scholarship not only signifies a personal achievement but also serves as a testament to his perseverance and dedication to the sport. With his recent success, he is eager to give back to his teammates, stating, “Treat my teammates. Go out to eat. Get some all-you-can-eat sushi.”
The University of Hawaii football program continues to cultivate talent and foster a supportive environment, exemplified by Iovino’s inspiring story and scholarship recognition. With each game, Iovino hopes to contribute to the team’s success while embracing the culture and camaraderie that defines the Lion’s Den.
