New England Patriots tight end Michael Hoomanawanui is accustomed to the speed of an NFL game, but that’s nothing like what he experienced on Monday.
Hoomanawanui and St. Louis Rams punter Johnny Hekker flew with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. The two NFL players were nominated for the flight by the Blue Angels crew for their leadership, positivity and impact on their communities.
Hoomanawanui will become a free agent on March 11. The Patriots have exclusive negotiating rights with the tight end until March 8.
“I’ve been to a lot of places, met a lot of people and seen a lot of things, but flying in a jet may just top them all,” Hoomanawanui said last week. “I am honored to have this opportunity.”
Hoomanawanui’s flight was piloted by Lieutenant Ryan Chamberlain, who, like the Patriots tight end, is a Bloomington, Ill., native and Central Catholic High School graduate.
Blue Angels can fly as high as 15,000 feet, as low as 50 feet and reach speeds of 700 miles per hour. Check out pictures of Hoomanawanui preparing for the flight below.
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