Bengals counting on tackle Peko to be a force in the middle

BY MARK CURNUTTE | MCURNUTTE@ENQUIRER.COM

Like teammates T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Jonathan Fanene who arrived before him, Domata Peko first was noticed by Bengals fans because of his hair.

Peko, starting his second season with the Bengals, has a long, thick mane - which he colors with lighter streaks - flowing out of his helmet and down the back of his jersey.

News flash: The guy is not a novelty act. He can play. At least he had better be able to play.

The Bengals are counting on Peko to be a force as a tackle in the middle of the defensive line. Coaches are so confident in his talent that they terminated Sam Adams' contract in the offseason and promoted Peko to starter.

"I'm just making the best of my opportunity," Peko told reporters during training camp at Georgetown College. "Everyone has a role, and I'm going to do my role on this team. All you can do is your best, and God will take care of the rest."

Despite starting just one season of major college football at Michigan State, Peko made a quick transition to the NFL. He played in all 16 games last year, and his role increased as the season wore on. He finished with 49 total tackles, including 23 solo, and had 2½ sacks.

Bengals players and coaches alike have nothing but good things to say about Peko. He made the leap to the pros because of a vicious work ethic that contradicts his gentle personality off the field.

"He asks a lot of questions, which is good. I like that in a young player," said ninth-year lineman John Thornton, who will start beside Peko at tackle. "He's confident, but he's still trying to learn. He'll always ask me what I see."

At 6 feet 3, 319 pounds, Peko is a physical force in the middle. Still just 22 years old, he moves well for a large man.

"He's flexible. He can get out of blocks," Thornton said. "If he is double-teamed, he can get between the block. He makes a lot of tackles."

Peko is easy to coach, too, said Jay Hayes, the Bengals' defensive line coach.

"He's really hungry and wants to be considered a great player," Hayes said. "He has that desire and is very intelligent."

Peko is a fast learner. He did not start playing football in American Samoa until he was in high school. His first two seasons of college ball were spent at College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita, Calif. He was a backup at Michigan State in 2004.

He is one of three Samoans vying for a spot on the Bengals' defensive line. Fanene, an end and a lifelong friend of Peko's, is having a strong preseason and staying healthy for the first time in three years. Rookie tackle Matt Toeaina, who played at Oregon and was the Bengals' sixth-round pick this year, could start the season on the team's practice squad. He is 6-2, 311 pounds. Fanene is 6-4, 295.

"The guys from Samoa are real nice," Thornton said. "They're real big and strong but wouldn't hurt a soul. Those guys are really good to be around. We like Domata a lot."

It's in their nature as Samoans, Peko said during camp.

"I guess we're built for that," he said of playing defensive line in the NFL. "One of my teammates (asked), 'Are there any small Samoans?'

"It's in our genes. We're just known as being really big guys, warriors. That's what we're known to be - savages and stuff like that. That's how it is on the field for us. Samoans are relentless out there. That's how I like to be: every play give it my best."

It's a snap for Sauafea

By Dave Reardon / dreardon@starbulletin.com

Perhaps the most accurate quarterback in college football and a posse of fleet-footed receivers to catch his passes. A group of 16 defensive linemen, all appearing worthy of Division I. Reinforcements at cornerback to add depth at a position where it is often rare.

Yes, in many ways Hawaii looked like a Top 25 team at practice yesterday. But none of it will matter if the Warriors can't snap the ball properly to quarterback Colt Brennan.

Several players had all kinds of difficulties getting the football to Brennan during the 2 1/2-hour session -- even starter John Estes, who had been on light duty nearly a week with an elbow sprain.

"We're not really concerned about it now because we have two weeks (before opening with Northern Colorado on Sept. 1)," Brennan said. "But it's an issue, obviously. So many guys have been snapping because John's been out. John was rusty today because he hasn't had reps."

After a particularly bad flurry of bouncing and flying footballs, Larry Sauafea was summoned from his right guard spot. He stabilized things nicely.

Sauafea played center for the first time in spring practice earlier this year. In high school, he played offensive tackle and linebacker. At UH, he's mostly been a guard, and was moved to defense on two occasions when the Warriors were short on that side of the ball.

He's glad to have a position to call home.

"I feel really good at right guard," the senior from Pago Pago, American Samoa, said. "But I have no problem with a ball in my hand. It was kind of strange at first, but I'm used to it.

"We had to adjust a little bit today. John and Aaron (Kia) are both a little bit sore. Everybody's going to have an off-day. They'll pick it up."

Sauafea hasn't had many bad days. He's been a rock at right guard this fall after reporting at 6-foot-2 and 294 pounds.

"He really committed himself. He lost 30-something pounds (in the offseason)," Brennan said. "Coach (June Jones) challenged him and he responded.

"Larry's done some snaps before. We have five guys snapping before practices and Larry's one of them. You never know when you'll need a new center."

Sauafea is known by some teammates as "Liger" for his long hair and resemblance to the half lion-half tiger drawing in the movie, "Napoleon Dynamite."

He said he likes the nickname because he loves the movie.

"It doesn't bother me at all," Sauafea said with a big smile. "The movie's hilarious. Funny, stupid-funny. Some people get it, some don't. Most of our guys get it."

Ex-UH star Sopoaga getting chance as 49er nose tackle

Former University of Hawai'i defensive lineman Isaac Sopoaga of the San Francisco 49ers is getting his chance, for now.

Sopoaga finds himself in a starting role following an injury to Aubrayo Franklin, whom the 49ers signed during a busy offseason in which they picked up four possible defensive starters.

Continue Article at Link

Matt Toeaina TD Return versus Detroit

Rookie Matt Toeaina -- a 6-foot-2, 311-pound defensive tackle -- from Oregon and American Samoa (Samoana HS) caught the fluttering football and rumbled 81 yards for a score that gave Cincinnati a 26-10 lead early in the fourth quarter.

See Video Link at 2:25 into the video.

Dolphins add 5 Samoans, typify the islands' growing influx in NFL

BY ANTONIO GONZALEZ

ASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER

DAVIE, Fla. -- Several rookies who share one corner of the Miami Dolphins' locker room quickly formed a bond by eating together, studying playbooks together and telling jokes they say only a Samoan would find funny.

They've helped formed the "Samoan Block" - a group of six players of Polynesian descent. Five are from Samoa and one from Tonga, a neighboring island.

"It's just a little dot on the map," rookie defensive tackle Paul Soliai said.

But the South Pacific islands have long been fertile territory for the NFL, especially this year for the Dolphins.

There's Soliai, center Samson Satele, fullback Reagan Mauia, guard Tala Esera and defensive tackle Brian Soi, each a rookie. Defensive tackle Steve Fifita is Tongan and a second-year pro.

Their home is a series of Polynesian islands that are divided between the independent nation of Samoa and American Samoa, a territory of the United States, that have a combined population of about 250,000. Despite the small size, the Samoas have produced an abundance of outstanding football players - an ESPN study in 2002 estimated that a Samoan is 40 times more likely to reach the NFL than a boy growing up in the 50 states.

The Samoan Dolphins say they're not trying to segregate from the team by hanging out together; they just "understand each other," Soi said. He and Soliai are even related - they're second cousins.

"Samoans are all about respect," said Soliai, born and raised in Pago Pago, American Samoa. "You have to give it, and you have to earn it. We know that. It makes it easy to live when you have so many people on the same team that understand you."

The Samoan Dolphins communicate in their native language, but also speak fluent English. Rookie quarterback John Beck, who learned some Samoan at Brigham Young, is an honorary member of the group. They call him "the half Samoan," and his locker is also stationed on the Samoan Block.

"They called me palagi, or white boy," at BYU, Beck said. "Really, though, they are the coolest people you will ever meet."

Some 6,000 miles from Samoa, South Florida offers few comparisons - other than the steamy weather - but the six players say they haven't had a problem adjusting. Even though Samoan towns often have "one street, maybe," crowded Miami hasn't worn them down, Soliai said.

"We're always hanging around each other," Soliai said. "We're always helping each other out."

The five Samoan rookies were acquired by new coach Cam Cameron. He said the team didn't gear its draft strategy toward the island, but he likes the attitude of the Samoans and appreciates their bond.

Nate Ilaoa and Melila Purcell sign NFL contracts

Nate Ilaoa and Melila Purcell from the University of Hawai'i have signed contracts with the Philadelphia Eagles and Cleveland Browns. Ilaoa was set to enter Eagles camp with Zach Tuiasosopo, unfortunately he was released last week. Purcell will be one of two Samoans on the Browns, the other is offensive lineman Fred Matua. Link

St Francis (PA) Lineman Derek Uperesa to transfer to Hawai'i

Posted on: Thursday, June 14, 2007

Another Uperesa to play for UH

By Stephen Tsai
Advertiser Staff Writer

Offensive lineman Derek Uperesa will join the University of Hawai'i football team in the fall.

Uperesa, who is 6 feet 6 and 350 pounds, was an offensive tackle at Saint Francis University in Pennsylvania last season. He requested — and received — a release from his Saint Francis scholarship in April.

"There were a lot of reasons, but more than half of my decision was based on football," Uperesa said. "I wanted a change."

Uperesa spent last Christmas break with relatives in Hawai'i. His cousins are Dane Uperesa, a former UH offensive tackle now with the Cincinnati Bengals, and Drew Uperesa, a Punahou School graduate who will join the Warriors in January.

While training at UH during his vacation, Derek Uperesa decided he wanted to transfer.

"I knew it was time to make a move," Uperesa said.

After receiving his scholarship release, Uperesa contacted the UH coaches.

In accordance with NCAA transfer rules, Uperesa must redshirt this season. But he will be allowed to practice with the team and attend classes. He will be a senior during the 2008 season.

"I'm glad he's going to be a Warrior," Dane Uperesa said. "He's a good player. I know he's taller than me. He's big, but he carries his weight well. It's definitely exciting to have another cousin play for Hawai'i."

The Uperesas also are related to Mana Lolotai, a linebacker who joins the Warriors this summer, and Waylon Lolotai, a UH recruit who is on a church mission. Waylon Lolotai will enroll at UH in January 2009.

Derek Uperesa was born and raised in American Samoa. He is a graduate of Samoana High School.

Uperesa said he chose Saint Francis because "I wanted to go to a different environment."

Uperesa, who answers to the nickname "Beese," moved to Hawai'i last week. He is participating in the Warriors' unsupervised summer workout program.

2007 AIGA Foundation All Stars (3rd Team)

2006 ALL STAR TEAM (3RD TEAM)

OFFENSE

QB HERMAN SWORD Leone HS (American Samoa)

American Samoa High School Athletic Association (ASHAA) MVP

RB *JACK SULA Carson HS (CA)

LA City (4A) 1^st Team, 1^st Team LB Press Telegram Dream Team, 1^st Team Daily Breeze (All Purpose)

Rushed for 1854 yards on 233 carries and had 20 TDs, 330 yards receiving and 4 TDs and 2 passing TDs.

RB *SIONE MATAELE Palo Alto HS (CA)

San Jose Mercury News 2^nd Team, Cal-Hi Sports All Underclassman (3^rd Team)

Rushed for 721 yards on 145 carries and had 19 TD (17 rushing) in helping Paly HS to the DI State Championship versus Orange Lutheran.

WR JORDAN HO CHING Pac-5 (Honolulu, HI)

Honolulu SB 1^st Team All State Utility, Honolulu Advertiser 2^nd Team All State Utility

WR JORDAN STRICKLAND Auburn HS (WA)

Signed WESTERN OREGON

TE SAVAI’I ESELU Moanalua HS (Honolulu, HI)

Signed CAL

OL MATAGISILA LEFITI Mater Dei HS (Santa Ana, CA)

Signed HAWAI’I

OL JOHN MANU OLEVAO Kahuku HS (HI)

Signed HAWAI’I

OL MATTHEW MASIFILO Campbell HS (‘Ewa Beach, HI)

Signed STANFORD

OL MICHAEL MATAMUA Kapolei HI (HI)

Signed SAN DIEGO STATE

OL ANA TUIASOSOPO JR St Louis HS (Honolulu, HI)

Signed NEW MEXICO STATE

DEFENSE

DL JAMES AIONO Murray HS (West Valley, UT)

Signed UTAH

DL DAVID ANGILAU Niwot HS (Longmont, CO)

Signed BYU

DL NATI FOTU Kahuku HS (HI)

Signed UTAH

DL VAUGHN MEATOGA Kamehameha Schools-Kapalama (HI)

Signed HAWAI’I

LB SIAOSI TAFUNA Kahuku HS (HI)

Signed NEW MEXICO STATE

LB *STEVEN FANUA Milpitas HS (CA)

1^st Team All San Jose Mercury News, NorCalPreps.com Defensive POY

LB DEVIN MAUSIA Timpview HS (Provo, UT)

MVP (SL Tribune), 1^st Team All State (SL Tribune, Deseret News)

LB LEWIS TUIAVI’I Franklin HS (Stockton, CA)

1^st Team Stockton Record, Stockton Hall of Fame Player of the Year

DB *KAMUELA FOKI Kapolei HS, HI

2^nd Team All State (Honolulu Advertiser & Honolulu Star Bulletin)

DB ANDREW GODINET Kamehameha Schools-Kapalama (Honolulu, HI)

1^st Team All State (Honolulu Advertiser), 2^nd Team All State (Honolulu SB)

DB *MANUMALO MUASAU Buena HS (Sierra Vista, AZ)

1^st Team All Southern Arizona (Tucson Citizen)

*INDICATES UNDERCLASSMAN (CLASS OF 2008, 2009)

2006 AIGA Foundation All Star Team (2nd Team)

2006 AIGA Foundation Second Team

Offense
QB RONNIE FOUCH Redlands East Valley HS (CA)
Signed WASHINGTON

RB KARL FINAI Kearns HS (UT)
Signed WEBER STATE

RB ROMAN PULA Lincoln HS (Tacoma, WA)
Signed EASTERN WASHINGTON

WR AARON SANTIAGO Kapolei HS (HI)
Signed NAVY

WR ELIJAH LESU Farrington HS (Honolulu, HI)
Signed HAWAI’I

TE DEVIN MAHINA Upland HS (CA)
Signed BYU

OL FAMIKA ANAE Timpview HS (Provo, UT)
Signed BYU

OL NIKO MAFULI University HS (St Louis, MO)
Signed NORTHWESTERN

OL KEALAKAI MAIAVA Baldwin HS (Wailuku, HI)
Signed COLORADO

OL EATHYN MANUMALEUNA Timpview HS (Provo, UT)
Signed BYU

OL SIONE TAU Damien HS (Honolulu, HI)
Signed COLORADO

Defense

DL SIMI FILI Cottonwood HS (Salt Lake City, UT)
Signed OREGON

DL STAR LOTULELEI Bingham HS (South Jordan, UT)
Signed BYU

DL HANS PHILIP Arroyo Valley HS (San Bernardino, CA)
Signed ARIZONA

DL LEI TALAMAIVAO Rancho Cucamonga HS (CA)
Signed UTAH

LB SEFA HEIMULI Kahuku HS (HI)
Signed WEBER STATE,

LB THOR SALANOA
Signed UTAH

LB FONOMANU SEKONA Leuzinger HS (Lawndale, CA
Signed IDAHO

LB TO’OLEFUA SAMUELU
Signed NORTHERN ARIZONA

DB *SHILOAH TE’O Kahuku HS, HI
1^st Team All State (Honolulu Advertiser & Honolulu Star Bulletin)

DB *TUIKE TUIPULOTU Serra HS, San Mateo, CA
1st Team All Metro (SF Chronicle), 1^st Team All San Jose Mercury News

DB *WAYNE HEIMULI Trinity HS, Euless, TX
1^st Team 7-5A

*INDICATES UNDERCLASSMAN (CLASS OF 2008, 2009)

2006 AIGA Foundation All Star Team (First Team)

2006 AIGA Foundation First Team

Offense

QB MIKE CLAUSEN North HS (Riverside, CA)

Signed UNLV

RB ROY HELU JR San Ramon Valley HS (Danville, CA)

Signed NEBRASKA

RB GABE TUATA Kealakehe HS (Kailua-Kona, HI)

Signed HAWAI’I

WR MIAH OSTROWSKI Punahou HS (Honolulu, HI)

Signed HAWAI’I

WR LOFA LI’ILI’I ‘Aiea HS (HI)

Signed OREGON STATE

TE RHETT ELLISON St Francis HS (Mountain View, CA)

Signed USC

OL MARTIN COLEMAN Edison HS (Huntington Beach, CA)

Signed USC

OL FRED KOLOTO Palo Alto HS (CA)

Signed SAN JOSE STATE

OL PO’U PALELEI Bishop Gorman HS (Las Vegas, NV)

Signed ARIZONA STATE

OL ADAM TELLO Norco HS (CA)

Signed ARIZONA STATE

OL MANAAKI VAITAI Trinity HS (Euless, TX)

Signed BYU

Defense

DL SOLOMONA AIGAMAUA St Louis HS (Honolulu, HI)

Signed CAL

DL SAM FEHOKO Farrington HS (Honolulu, HI)

Signed TEXAS TECH

DL KANIELA TUIPULOTU Kahuku HS (HI)

Signed ARIZONA

DL CHRISTIAN TUPOU Grant HS (Sacramento, CA)

Signed USC

LB TYLER BECK Vista Murrieta HS (Murrieta, CA)

Signed BYU

LB DAVID PA’ALUHI Wai’anae HS (HI)

Signed OREGON STATE

LB APIATA TUIHALAMAKA

Signed ARIZONA

LB WILLIAM VEA Pahrangat Valley HS (Alamo, NV)

Signed UNLV

DB BRANDON HARDIN Kamehameha Schools-Kapalama (Honolulu, HI)

Signed OREGON STATE

DB GARY NAGY Kahuku HS (HI)

Signed BYU

DB NATE VAIOMOUNGA Corona HS (CA)

Signed COLORADO

SPECIAL TEAMS

Punter William Opeta (Franklin HS, Stockton, CA), Kicker Petey Puga (La Habra HS, CA), Kicker Kamaka Tuata (Kamehameha Schools-Kea’au, HI)

Athletic talent and 'a special spirit' set Dolphins Samoan rookies apart

Athletic talent and 'a special spirit' set Dolphins Samoan rookies apart
By Harvey Fialkov
South Florida Sun-Sentinel

May 11, 2007

While most coaches focus on speed and athletic ability when building a championship team, Dolphins coach Cam Cameron has repeatedly stressed character, family and values as a major part of his selection process.

Perhaps that explains why Cameron and General Manager Randy Mueller brought in four Samoan players via the Polynesian Pipeline in renovating the Dolphins' roster.

Of course, all four Samoans -- offensive lineman Samson Satele (second-round draft pick), defensive tackle Paul Soliai (fourth), fullback Reagan Mauia (sixth), and lineman Tala Esera (free agent) -- are also considered agile and powerful football players.

"They're all different. Their families are different. But what we have seen in these guys is that spirit, that spirit of enthusiasm, that pride," Cameron said. "When they step on the football field, they know they represent someone bigger than themselves, and that's important. We believe in that."

Samoans are one of several cultures in the more than 1,000 islands in the South Pacific collectively known as Polynesia. American Samoa, Hawaii, New Zealand, Tonga, Tahiti, Easter Island and Marquesas are all in the Polynesian Triangle.

The wave of Polynesian players in the NFL is growing, with more than 50 dotting current rosters. At least 30 are from Samoa or the 77-square mile American Samoa.

The Dolphins have a fifth Polynesian player: second-year Tongan defensive tackle Steve Fifita, who is playing in NFL Europa.

"These kids have a special spirit about them in terms of their faith and commitment level," said Alema Te'o, who runs the All-Poly football camp in Bountiful, Utah, for mostly impoverished Polynesian-born high school players. "It's a respect thing. When it comes down to competition, you don't want anyone else.

"These kids lay it on the line because they know they're not just playing for themselves. They know that when you leave home, you'd better not come back empty-handed."

More than 50 college coaches and scouts attend the annual camp, and last year they handed out 40 Division I-A scholarships. Satele, Mauia and Esera are three of seven rookies (five drafted) from the University of Hawaii on NFL rosters.

"When I first came here in 1999, we had 19 Polynesians out of 105 on the team," said Hawaii coach June Jones, a former Atlanta Falcons coach. "Now, we've got 76, including three Sateles. They're just very solid players and even better people."

Al Lolatia is thought to be the first Samoan to play in the NFL, in 1945, but the Pacific Islanders' lineage began to flourish in the 1970s with Bengals quarterback Jack Thompson, aka "The Throw'n Samoan," and Patriots fullback Mosi Tatupu, whose son Lofa is a linebacker for the Seahawks.

The current generation hopes to continue in the footsteps of future Hall of Fame linebacker Junior Seau and Steelers Pro Bowl safety Troy Polamalu, both of Samoan ancestry.

"Everyone wanted to be Junior Seau, even if you were playing quarterback," said Mauia, a cousin of Satele and Hawaii teammate Melila Purcell, taken by the Browns in the sixth round.

Te'o and Honolulu-based NFL agent Max Hannemann said these players are all about doing things the Samoan way, called fa'a Samoa, and by always showing respect, or fa'aaloalo, to their families, coaches, teammates and opponents.

Satele, who at 6 feet 2 and 310 pounds has the traditional long hair and size of his ancestors, said he wants to eradicate the negative stereotype of Samoans as being lazy, overweight beachcombers.

"We're only laid-back on Sundays," Satele said of Samoa's traditional day of rest. "Monday through Saturday, we're putting in the work. I guess we need a new day to rest now."

The 6-4, 345-pound Soliai, who developed his quick burst from playing Samoa's most popular sport, rugby, agrees.

"We hear how Samoans are lazy and not healthy and that most Samoans die of heart attacks," Soliai said. "If they [Seau, etc.] could make it, we could make it in the new generation."

The 6-3, 312-pound Esera is considered the leader of the Dolphins' Samoan contingent for his ability to lead them in the pregame Haka, a New Zealand war dance that inspired his teammates at Hawaii while intimidating and respecting their opponents.

"We're a new breed: smarter, more mature and aware of our role models," Esera said. "They showed us if we work hard and make good choices we can get to that level and do what we were born to do."

Their attitude and rituals seem contagious. Dolphins rookie quarterback John Beck speaks a little Samoan.

"They called me palagi, or white boy, at [Brigham Young]. I even play the ukulele," said Beck, who played in the Polynesian-laden Western Athletic Conference. "They have a really cool culture. They're so laid-back and chilled, but the minute they turn that switch they're like fire."

Despite losing more than 100 pounds when switching from nose guard to fullback, Mauia isn't about to give up his love of Samoan food, such as taro. He may, however, stick to creating holes in defensive lines instead of drywall, as he did at a training facility in Arizona while preparing for the draft.

"We were breaking down the wall already," said Mauia, whose nickname is Juggernaut. "It was crazy, but we had some fun with it.

"I couldn't ask for a better deal to be with the Dolphins. We're going to bring something different this year."

Perhaps the Haka?

"Only if the veterans let us," Esera said.

Harvey Fialkov can be reached at hfialkov@sun-sentinel.com.

Bengals' Samoa pipeline

Bengals' Samoa pipeline
3 from island now on roster

By Kevin Goheen
Post staff reporter

Imagine the Bengals taking a player from Greater Cincinnati three years in a row in the NFL draft. Imagine those players growing up on the West Side together, going to neighboring schools - think Elder vs. Oak Hills - but always having a friendship that has now been renewed through professional football.

Replace Greater Cincinnati in that scenario with a South Pacific island and that's exactly what the Bengals have done.

When the Bengals selected Oregon defensive lineman Matt Toeaina in the sixth round of last weekend's draft it marked the third consecutive year they had taken a player hailing from Pago Pago, American Samoa. Toeaina (pronounced toe-EE-nuh) follows last year's selection of defensive tackle Domata Peko in the fourth round and the drafting of Jonathan Fanene in the seventh round in 2005.

"It's good to have someone who is a friend, someone you've known for a long time," said defensive line coach Jay Hayes. "I think that will lend itself to keeping them focused. They can talk to each other. There's no question on the field they're going to be able to talk to each other and say things to each other that people on the other side won't be able to understand because they can talk to each other in Samoan."

Hayes is part of a similarly tight relationship on the Bengals coaching staff. His brother Jonathan coaches the tight ends and the two were childhood friends of head coach Marvin Lewis in McDonald, Pa.

American Samoa totals 123.7 square miles, or roughly the size of the District of Columbia.

"To be honest, it does make me more comfortable," said Fanene. "I'm used to being around different races but seeing the same nationality around you and having your friends from back home, it makes me happy to work with them."

Fanene attended Tafuna High School. Peko went to Samoana High School, the same high school Toeaina attended after he spent his freshman year at Tafuna.

Toeaina spent this past weekend acclimating himself to Cincinnati and the Bengals during the team's rookie mini-camp. He picked up some advice from Peko and Fanene before arriving.

"They told me not to forget to have fun and play the game," said Toeaina, who weighed in at 311 pounds and stands 6 feet 2. "They said they'd take care of me when I get here so I'm counting on them to do that."

Peko enjoyed a good rookie season in 2006 in which he finished with 49 tackles, 2½ sacks and one forced fumble while playing in a reserve capacity behind starters Sam Adams and John Thornton. The Bengals like Fanene's potential - he tackled Steelers running back Willie Parker for a 4-yard loss on his first play from scrimmage as a rookie - but a hamstring injury kept him on the sideline until the final four games last season.

Part of the reason the Bengals were willing to allow Shaun Smith to sign with Cleveland as a restricted free agent - the Bengals chose not to match Cleveland's four-year deal worth $9 million - was their belief in Fanene. Smith was on the inactive roster for the final three games last season while the Bengals began playing Fanene more in the defensive line rotation.

"Last year was last year. It's over," said Fanene. "They saw that I still have that potential and I can play. I don't know about Shaun's situation but I believe I can play and I can be here if I want to and work at it. If they didn't like me they would have let me go long ago."

Toeaina is physically more comparable to Peko than Fanene in his stocky build. His calves bear a striking resemblance to tree trunks.

"He weighed 311 the other day but he can bend and when he gets down he uses that leverage and he's tough to move. He's got a little bit of quickness to him," said defensive coordinator Chuck Bresnahan. "He's a fun kid to coach. He really is. He's a fun kid. He enjoys the game, he flies around. He's not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, he's got a long way to go, but he's a bright kid, he understands, he's good in the classroom, he's good in his individual drills and he takes it to the field for team."

3 picks hail from Polynesian Triangle

By Harvey Fialkov
South Florida Sun-Sentinel

April 30, 2007

DAVIE · The previous Dolphins regime favored Southeastern Conference teams for filling its drafting needs such as recent picks Jason Allen (Tennessee), Ronnie Brown (Auburn), Channing Crowder (Florida) and Travis Daniels (LSU).

Farewell SEC, Aloha WAC via the Hawaiian-Samoan pipeline.

Dolphins coach Cam Cameron and General Manager Randy Mueller plucked three of their 10 draft picks from the Polynesian Triangle, including two distant cousins from the University of Hawaii -- 311-pound center/guard Samson Satele in the second round and mammoth fullback Reagan Mauia in the sixth -- in hopes of adding power and bulk to the offense.

They also drafted 6-foot-4, 334-pound Pago Pago native Paul Soliai, an American Samoan from the University of Utah, in the fourth round to compete with second-year defensive tackle Fred Evans for playing time behind nose tackle Keith Traylor, 37.

"We found out that Hawaii does produce some good players and they like playing," Mueller said after a draft which included five players from UH, a program that has 10 players already on NFL rosters. "They're very close and as you know their culture is one of passion and caring ... and those are good team-building identities that we want."

Mueller's Hawaiian connections go back more than 20 years with Warriors coach June Jones, as well as assistant coaches Mouse Davis and Wes Suan, who coached Mueller at Linfield College (Oregon) in the early '80s.

"I'm excited for the Dolphins because they got two good football players and great kids, just what they're looking for," said Jones, who coached the Falcons from 1994-96. "Of all the players I've ever coached, and that includes [Pro Bowl fullback] Craig ``Ironhead'' Heyward, Reagan is the most physical and best football player.

"Samson is a powerful pass pass protector and run blocker, and I put him in the same category as [Pro Bowl center Olin Kreutz] on the Bears."

The 6-foot, 272-pound Mauia, named for late President Ronald Reagan, and the long-haired Satele, named for biblical strong man Samson, are related on their grandmother's side. They formed a one-two punch in the Warriors' run-and-shoot offense in 2006, which led the nation in total offense on the way to an 11-3 season.

"That's what I was known for, to be able to block very well," said Mauia, a converted defensive tackle who has dropped nearly 100 pounds during the past two seasons. "[Samson's] going to be awesome, just like we did it here in Hawaii, great blocking and just connecting really well with the O-Line."

Jones said he'd be surprised if Satele isn't starting his rookie season like former Hawaii product Vince Manuwai did with the Jaguars in 2003.

"When Samson gets on the field he gets that look in his eye, and you don't want to be across from him," Jones said.

Harvey Fialkov can be reached at hfialkov@sun-sentinel.com.

Copyright © 2007, South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Cleveland Browns select Melila Purcell in 6th Rd

Browns pick DL Melila Purcell

Jeff Walcoff, Staff Writer

04.29.2007

The Browns have selected defensive lineman Melila Purcell in the sixth round (200^th overall) at the 2007 NFL Draft.

Purcell was a three-year starter along the Hawaii defensive line, marking 208 tackles with 36.5 tackles for loss and 20 sacks during his career. At 6-feet-5 and 269 pounds, he'll likely compete for a job along the team's defensive line.

Purcell was born and attended school in American Samoa and is cousins with 2007 second-round pick center Samson Satele of Hawaii.

Cincinnati Bengals 6th Rd Pick Matt Toeaina

2007 NFL DRAFT
Sunday, April 29, 2007
at Paul Brown Stadium


Cincinnati Bengals
news conference transcripts


ROUND 6


MARVIN LEWIS
Head coach

Initial comments...

“Matt Toeaina went to Oregon as a fullback, so he is a really good athlete. Although most of his time has been at defensive tackle,
he has slid out and played some defensive end due to injuries. Even when do their three-man front, he was an outside end pass
rusher. He’s a big man at 6-foot-2, 300-plus pounds. He’s a good athlete who’s played a lot of football at Oregon. It fits us in a good
need. He is a good young prospect and a guy we can shape, mold and coach into a top defensive lineman.”

Did he grow up with Domata Peko?

“He grew up on Samoa, but I’m not sure if he knows (Bengals defensive tackle) Domata (Peko).”

Where does he fit in?

“He will compete for a roster spot at defensive tackle. Even though he has played some defensive end, we drafted him to line up at
defensive tackle.”

You seem to be building some depth at that position…

“Just like last year, this guy is very similar to Domata, as far as the athleticism and being able to move his feet and bend his knees.
That’s the exciting part of it.”

Since they brought him in as a fullback, he must be pretty light on his feet and able to move pretty well…

“That was probably 60 pounds ago. He kept maturing as a kid. He has already graduated with a degree from the University of
Oregon. He has a lot of upside to him.”

Is he a leveraging machine?

“Well, at 6-foot-2, you don’t have that low center of gravity. He’s a good prospect and one that we were excited to pick.”

What does he need to work on?

“I think he just needs to learn the game at this level. We talked about it earlier with (first round pick) Leon Hall. You don’t see as
much diversity in the NFL. They see a lot of the spread offense in college. You don’t see as many pounding offenses in college football,
and that’s the biggest thing. He’s able to separate from blocks. That’s why you want a guy who can bend his knees and be an athlete,
like Matt, so he can finish the play. If they can capture you with one guy, then they can cut the defense in half, and then we haveissues.”

JAY HAYES
Defensive line coach

Another America-Samoan connection?

“Yeah, it’s where he grew up. These guys traditionally like to be together. (Bengals defensive linemen) Domata (Peko) and
Jonathan (Fanene) played against one another in high school, along with Matt. It’s a small island.”

One more to complete the line?

“Not that I know of, but you never know.”

What was it that stood out about him?

“Just how athletic he was. He could play inside or out. He played end for them last year. He’s by no means a finished product. He
has good size and he can run. He is very intelligent. It adds to the whole package. I know some of the coaches at Oregon, and they
speak very highly of this young man.”

I don’t know if this is a fair comparison, but after Bengals DE Jonathan Fanene’s production last season, did it have anything
to do with you drafting Matt?

“It had none.”

How are Peko and Toeaina similar?

“Peko is a little bigger and heavier than Matt. Matt is probably a step faster. Domata has played and has been very productive.
This young man will come in and try to earn a spot on our roster. The guys we have are established. Matt is going to have to come in
and do a very good job for us in order to be part of our equation.”

Matt has good versatility? He can play inside or out?

“I think so. One of the things I watched him do on film in our evaluation was run step-for-step with Adrian Peterson from Oklahoma
and make a tackle from the left end position on a cutback for a negative-yardage play. That showed how athletic he was. For a guy
300-plus pounds to do that to someone who was a Heisman candidate at the time speaks well of him. There are things he will need to
improve on. I think he needs to lower his pad level. I think that translates to the fact he wasn’t a defensive lineman for a great deal of


his career. The upside on him is his ability to improve.”

When did he make the change from fullback to defensive tackle?

“I don’t think it was very long (playing fullback). He got on campus, and they made the switch pretty quick. He’s very excited. He
told me his father came from Samoa to be with him. His father is a minister and his mother is a school administrator. Sounds like a very
solid background.”

Where did he grow up?

“America-Samoa. Very articulate young man.”

MATT TOEAINA
Defensive tackle, Oregon

Do you know Bengals defensive linemen Domata Peko and Jonathan Fanene?

“I went to school with both Domata and Jonathan as a freshman.”

You’ve got to pleased that you’re coming here with your friends...

“Oh yeah, definitely. I think it will make me more comfortable in situations. I’m just glad to be a part of the program now.”

What do you hope to show us on Sundays this fall?

“I worked hard to get to this point. I just want to do what I can to the best to my abilities and show you that I am a legit pick.”

You originally went to Oregon as a fullback. Is that correct?

“Yeah, coming from the island, I came in only weighing in at 245. I gained weight fast, and they formed me into a defensive
lineman.”

What did you eat to gain all of that weight?

“I don’t know. I think the dollar menu across the street from the dormitory didn’t help.”

The dollar menu?

“At McDonald’s.”

They have a nutritionist here who will break you of that habit...

“I already broke the habit. It was just coming from a small island — eating a big juicy burger — we didn’t have that there.”

Are you going to wear your sarong in the locker room?

“Why not? You know it’s the most comfortable piece of clothing that I have.”

It sounds like you’re versatile, like you can play tackle and end...

“Definitely, because I was under 300 pounds, and I gradually gained a lot of weight. I couldn’t play D-tackle at 260, so I started out
at D-end and eventually grew into a D-tackle body. But I still had the instincts of playing defensive end. I think that was very beneficial
for me at the University of Oregon.”

Do you remember the play where you chased down Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson?

“Yeah. I think that’s what it’s all about — never giving up. That’s the attitude that you’ve got to have, and I think that’s the
difference between good and great players.”

Do you remember any specifics about that one play in particular?

“Yeah. I was at defensive end. I think he rushed up the middle and I quickly engaged off of my man and just pursued him and
made the tackle.”

How do you get here from Samoa?

“It’s about a five-hour flight from Samoa to Hawaii, and another five-hour flight from Hawaii to the main land.

Miami Dolphins Profile 4th Round Pick: Paul Soliai

PAUL FUAPAPA SOLIAI

April 29, 2007

Defensive Tackle/Nose Guard/Offensive Guard
University of Utah
6:04.0-344
Pago Pago, American Samoa
Coffeyville Community College
Nuuuli Poly-technical High School

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Paul Soliai Photo Gallery

* Watch Paul Soliai's Video College Highlights in 300k and 56k

* Read Paul Soliai's draft statement

* Paul Soliai Draft Notes

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OVERVIEW
One of eight children, Soliai was team captain and an offensive lineman at Nuuuli Poly Tech in Pago Pago, American Samoa. He also lettered in basketball and soccer. Upon graduating, Soliai moved to the United States. He enrolled at Coffeyville Community College in 2002, where he
excelled as an offensive guard. The two-time All-Jayhawk Community College Conference choice added All-American honorable mention as a freshman and first-team national honors in 2003.

Soliai transferred to the University of Utah in 2004, spending the season redshirting on the scout team. He suited up for the team’s fourth game of the season vs. Air Force, but did not appear in that game. He shifted to the defensive line in 2005 spring camp, gaining valuable experience behind Kelly Talavou at nose guard. He managed just five tackles (4 solos) with a sack and 1.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage.

Soliai earned second-team All-Mountain West Conference honors in 2006, starting the team’s first twelve games at nose guard. He registered 35 tackles (13 solos) with 2.5 sacks, 3.5 stops for losses and four pass deflections. He caused and recovered a fumble while also blocking an extra point attempt.

In 24 games at Utah, Soliai started 12 contests. He produced 40 tackles (14 solos) with 3.5 sacks for minus 27 yards and five stops for losses totaling 31 yards. He caused and recovered a fumble. He also was credited with four pass break-ups and one blocked kick.

CAREER NOTES
The team compiled a 5-1 record in games that Soliai had a tackle behind the line of scrimmage.

2006 SEASON
All-Mountain West Conference second-team selection…Started the first twelve games at nose guard…Recorded 35 tackles (13 solos) with 2.5 sacks for minus 17 yards and 3.5 stops for losses of 19 yards…Recovered and caused a fumble…Blocked an extra point attempt and had four pass deflections.

2006 GAME ANALYSIS
UCLA…In his first career start, he responded with three solo tackles…Head to Head Competition-OC#54-Robert Chai.

Northern Arizona…Posted four tackles (3 assists with a pair of pass deflections, a 2-yard sack and 1.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage)…Took down Jason Murrietta for no gain on a third-&-1 run late in the first quarter Sacked Murrietta for a 5-yard loss early in the second quarter…Head to Head Competition-OC#55-Kevin Meagher.

Boise State…Totaled a career-high six tackles (5 solos) and sacked QB Jarad Zabransky for a 10-yard loss on first-&-goal at the start of the fourth quarter…Earlier, with 2:40 left in the third quarter, he stopped Zabransky for no gain on a second-&-goal run…Head to Head Competition-
OC#69-Jadon Dailey.

Texas Christian…Followed with five tackles (2 solos), causing a fumble that he recovered when he stripped the ball from Marcus Jackson on a 1-yard run at the TCU 11 with 11:28 left in the game…Killed a third quarter drive when he stopped Lonta Hobbs for no gain on a rushing attempt and on the next play, third-&-3, he took down Jackson at the line of scrimmage, forcing the Horned Frogs to punt…Head to Head Competition-OC#75-Blake Schlueter.

Wyoming…Managed four assisted tackles…Head to Head Competition-OC#69-Jason Karcher. Nevada-Las Vegas…Registered four tackles (3 solos), including one that stopped David Peeples for a 1-yard loss on a second-&-10 run at the start of the fourth quarter…Head to Head Competition-OC#54-Aaron Mueller.

Colorado State…Credited with a pair of tackles, assisting Martai Burnett in sacking QB Caleb Hanie for a 10-yard loss on third-&-2 with 7:33 left in the third quarter…Head to Head Competition-OC#64-Nick Allotta.

Brigham Young…Deflected a pass, produced two assisted tackles and blocked an extra point attempt at the start of the fourth quarter in his final collegiate game…Head to Head Competition- OC#67-Sete Aulai.

2005 SEASON
Played in twelve games at nose guard behind Kelly Talavou…Saw action mostly in short yardage situations…Finished with just five tackles (4 assists), a 10-yard sack and 1.5 stops for losses totaling 12 yards.

2005 GAME HIGHLIGHTS
Registered his first career sack, taking down QB Adam Austin for a 10-yard loss with 1:00 left in the first half vs. Arizona…Credited with four tackles, assisting Derek Beardall in taking down Ryan Bohm for a 4-yard loss on a third-&-6 screen pass thrown by Bernard Jackson with 9:44
remaining in the game.

2004 SEASON
Redshirted during his first year at Utah…Suited up for the fourth game vs. Air Force, but did not play.

JUNIOR COLLEGE
Enrolled at Coffeyville Community College in 2002, where he excelled as an offensive guard…The two-time All-Jayhawk Community College Conference choice added All-American honorable mention as a freshman in 2002 and first-team national honors in 2003.

PERSONAL
Sociology major…One of eight children of Florence Levao Mother played softball at San Francisco State…Step-father is the Reverend Foto Levao…Born Paul Fuapapa Soliai on 12/30/83 in Orange County, California…Resides in Pago Pago, American Samoa.

Rivals.com All Pac-10 Selections

Rivals.com recently announced their All Pac-10 Team which included many of the Samoans, Tongans, and Hawaiians selected by the Pac-10 Conference earlier this month.

Oregon State's Jeremy Perry was a repeat first team selection at guard. UCLA guard Shannon Tevaga was selected to the Rivals.com first team while only garnering honorable mention selection on the official conference team. All Pac-10 center Enoka Lucas of Oregon was left off Rivals.com first and second teams. USC middle linebacker Rey Maualuga an All Pac-10 selection was picked on the Rivals.com second team. Oregon tackle Max Unger was selected to the second team by both selection committees. Oregon's Palauni Ma Sun (guard) and Matt Toeaina (defensive tackle) who were both honorable mention selections were selected to Rivals.com 2nd Team.

OG

: Jeremy Perry
Oregon State, So. 6-2, 313

The Hawaiian was the Pac-10's co-freshman of the year last season and didn't disappoint in his second season as a starter. The Beavers had 19 rushing touchdowns this year, second in the conference. Behind Perry, running back Yvenson Bernard averaged more than 100 yards per game.

OG

: Shannon Tevaga
UCLA, Jr., 6-3, 316

Tevaga has played virtually every snap on the way to another standout season. He has been a workhorse, starting 30 games in a row the last three seasons, blocking for quarterbacks Drew Olson, Ben Olson and Patrick Cowan and running backs Maurice Drew and Chris Markey equally well.

OT

: Max Unger
Oregon, So., 6-5, 296

A freshman All-American a year ago, Unger continued to play a major role for Oregon as a sophomore. Oregon's passing game had its struggles but taking sacks was not one of them. The offensive tackle led the Oregon line which allowed one sack per game which ranked fourth in the country.

DT

: Matt Toeaina
Oregon, Sr., 6-3, 301

Toeaina started the season at defensive end but played admirably after he moved to defensive tackle following the third game. Toeaina had 36 tackles and three tackles for a loss but was at his best as a run stuffer. The Ducks allowed 171 rushing yards per game before his move and 127.3 yards after.

LB

: Rey Maualuga
USC, So., 6-3, 250

By this time next year, Maualuga should be one of the premier linebackers in the country. He entered the season in a battle with senior Oscar Lua for a starting spot and ended up tied with Keith Rivers for the team lead in tackles with 76. The highlight of the year came in the finale, a loss to UCLA, when Maualuga had one of the hits of the season. Maualuga came up with a bone-crushing hit on scrambling quarterback Patrick Cowan on the sideline.

OG

: Palauni Ma Sun
Oregon, Jr., 6-6, 330

Whether it was Dennis Dixon or Brady Leaf at quarterback or Jonathan Stewart or Jeremiah Johnson at running back, Ma Sun and the Oregon offensive line held up its end of the bargain. The Ducks finished first in the Pac-10 and 11th in the country in rushing offense at 189.2 yards per game.

USC goes to Samoa for latest recruit

By Garry Paskwietz
Date: Jun 25, 2002

The Trojan staff has been aggressive in their search for top talent across the country and now comes the news that USC will be bringing in an additional offensive lineman this fall and it’s safe to say that this player qualifies as an out of state recruit.

Travis Tofi (6’4", 240) played last season at Fagaitua High School in American Samoa and his visit last week to the Trojan campus has resulted in him being offered a scholarship starting this fall. His full name is Tupulua Travis Tofi and he is the eldest of six children while growing up in the Aoa village in Samoa. He was initially overlooked by mainland scouts until George Malauulu of the AIGA Foundation, a group designed to help promote Samoan athletes, sent out tapes to many Division I schools. USC line coach Keith Uperesa helped bring him in as Travis chose the Trojans over the University of Utah with plans to major in general education.

Travis was one of 7 football players honored at the Samoa International Sports Awards this past April, an event which recognizes and celebrates the achievements of Samoan athletes in Samoa, USA and around the world.