Hawaii Football Team Seeks New Punter as Gowers Enters Transfer Portal

The University of Hawaii football team faces another offseason challenge as punter Billy Gowers has announced his decision to enter the NCAA transfer portal. This marks the third consecutive year the Rainbow Warriors are on the hunt for a starting punter, following Gowers’ impressive tenure where he set a program record with a 46.24-yard average in a single season.

Gowers, who began his college career with the Warriors in July, expressed his gratitude for his time in Hawaii. “I had such a great time in Hawaii,” said the 29-year-old Australian. He noted the positive impact of the program and the community, stating that living in Hawaii for six months provided him with a rich introduction to a new sport and culture.

As Gowers pursues a professional football career, he recognizes the urgency to maximize his opportunities. He explained that playing in a larger conference with more visibility could enhance his chances of being scouted. The Mountain West Conference, which has been undergoing changes with the addition of UTEP and Northern Illinois in 2026, is currently home to Hawaii, but Gowers is looking for options that may better suit his aspirations.

“My age is a factor,” Gowers remarked, noting that he is older than many of his peers. “I’m 29. The decision has to do with my age and having to maximize my time in the game. My clock is running out as being a professional athlete.” He emphasized the importance of utilizing his skills while his body can still handle the demands of the sport.

The competition for punters at Hawaii intensified earlier in 2024 when Australian punter James “Thor” Rendell initially accepted a scholarship offer from the Warriors but later opted for Notre Dame instead. Reports suggest that Rendell received a lucrative six-figure deal through Notre Dame’s name-image-likeness program, highlighting the financial potential in college football.

For Gowers, financial incentives were not the main consideration in his decision to transfer. “There’s money in college football, but it’s not the crux of my decision,” he clarified. His focus remains on various factors contributing to his choice, and he maintains a positive view of his experiences with the Warriors.

Before joining the University of Hawaii, Gowers played Australian rules football and even opened his own barbershop in Melbourne. Following a suggestion from his father in the summer of 2024, he connected with Nate Chapman, the director and head punting coach at Prokick Australia. After a successful tryout, Gowers began training there, ultimately earning a scholarship with Hawaii when the NCAA denied punter Lucas Borrow’s request for a sixth season.

Gowers has demonstrated impressive skills, consistently delivering powerful punts. His right-footed punting style allows him to launch kicks behind a shield of blockers or during rollouts, and he possesses the capability to execute left-footed punts extending up to 70 yards. His performance has placed him tenth nationally in punting average, showcasing his talent and potential.

As the University of Hawaii looks to fill the punting position, Gowers’ departure adds another layer of complexity to the team’s preparations for the upcoming season. The Rainbow Warriors now face the challenge of continuing their success while navigating roster changes and maintaining competitive performance.