Mayor Mufi Hannemann's statement on the passing of former �Iolani football coach and athletic director Eddie Hamada:

�We�ve lost a legend in the passing of Eddie Hamada, �Mr. Iolani� to one and all.

�He came into my life a little more than 43 years ago�when I was a seventh-grader at Iolani�and remained an influential part of my life since, as a teacher, coach, mentor, and dear friend. He was unstinting in his support for me throughout the years, and helped shape my values, especially my commitment to serving others.

�Eddie Hamada defined the modern era of Raider sports under the �One Team� banner espoused by Father Bray, and he nurtured a legacy of athletic and academic excellence that continues to this day. But a student didn�t have to play for him to feel Mr. H�s love for young people, his desire to have them succeed in their endeavors, or his abiding commitment to the school and the people of Hawaii.

\�This is a very sad day for me and everyone at Iolani. Gail and I and the entire Hannemann ohana extend our condolences to Cynthia and the family.�