The Hawaiian Islanders were the first team in AF2 history not from the mainland. However, this did not mean they would be a good franchise. In 2002, the Islanders lost nine of their first ten games and finished at 5-11. The following season was a much-needed improvement; the team won the West and advanced to the quarterfinals. They would lose on the road at Tulsa. In their final season, the Islanders returned to mediocrity, finishing at an even 8-8. As attendance dwindled and expenses to travel to the mainland built up, the team would lose money. The Hawaiian Islanders folded following the 2004 season.