Hilo football coach Kaeo Drummondo holds the trophy high for all to see.

(BIVN) – Hilo High School football players and coaching staff were greeted with cheers at Hilo International Airport on Sunday, after their historic victory on Oahu.

The Vikings achieved their first state title with a 35-19 win against Damien in the HHSAA Division I championship game Saturday at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu. The championship is also the first state title for the Big Island Interscholastic Federation (BIIF).

Kaleo Apao, Hilo’s senior quarterback, threw two touchdowns and ran for another en route to victory.

Mayor Harry Kim, councilwoman Sue Lee Loy, and State Senator Kai Kahele were among the boosters and proud parents waiting at the airport to welcome the athletes home.

We spoke to Vikings offensive coach – and State Representative – Chris Todd about the emotional season.

The state champs arrive to cheers at Hilo International Airport.

Also in state championship action, the Konawaena Wildcats fell to Lahainaluna in the HHSAA Division II championship, 75-69, the highest scoring game in state tournament history. The teams battled through 7 overtimes.