NFL Combine Notes

The NFL will be holding their annual Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center and RCA Dome in Indianapolis, Indiana from February 23-26.

The following Samoans, Tongans, Fijians, and Hawaiians have been invited to the combine.

Manaia Brown: Defensive Tackle (BYU)
Finished his senior year at BYU as a second team MWC selection. Finished season with 31 tackles, 3 for losses, 1.5 sacks, 2 pass break ups and 1 fumble recovery. Brown transferred from Nebraska after his freshman year (2002) where he was a member of the Cornhuskers National Championship Team. Was a high school All American at Granger HS in Salt Lake City, UT.

Freddie Keiaho: Linebacker (San Diego State)
Capped Senior Year with being selected 1st Team All MWC and was also named SDSU's team MVP. Led team in tackles with 113, 11 for loss, 1 sack, 4 pass break ups and 2 fumble recoveries. Originally recruited to SDSU out of Buena HS in Ventura, CA as a running back. Older brother George Keiaho attended Washington as a Running Back and later transferred to Cal Lutheran.

Taitusi Lutui: Guard 6'6, 305, Sr (USC)
Finished Senior Year as Consensus All American by Football Coaches, Football Writers, The Sporting News, ESPN, CNNSI, CBS Sportsline and Rivals 1st Team. Was also selected 2nd Team All American by AP, Walter Camp, and Collegefootballnews.com. Lutui was selected 1st Team All PAC-10 and was named Co-Most Inspirational Player at USC, USC Lineman of the Year, and Lifter of the Year. He moved from Right Tackle to Left Guard this season. He transferred from Snow College (Ephraim, UT). Prior to Snow JC, Lutui played one season at Mesa College in Arizona. Originally signed with Utah out of Mesa HS (Arizona). Is related to current BYU Football Players TJ Sitake and David Tafuna and Texas Tech recruit Ofa Mohetau.

Jesse Mahelona: Defensive Tackle (Tennessee)
Was a Pre-Season All American following a stellar junior year at where he was named All American and All Conference. His senior year he was named Hon Men All SEC and 3rd Team All American by AP. Was credited with 35 tackles, 8 for losses, 2 sacks, and 9 QB hurrys. He is projected to be a first day draft pick. Mahelona transferred from Orange Coast College where he was coached by AIGA Foundation member Fa'asamala "Junior" Tagaloa. Mahelona may also be the first high school football player from the Big Island (graduated from Kealakehe HS in Kailua-Kona) to gain a roster spot in the NFL since former UH and Honoka'a Offensive Lineman Kaulana Noa.

Fred Matua: 6'2, 305, Jr Guard (USC)
Matua will leave USC with a year of eligibility remaining. He redshirted his freshman year after being projected to start due to a Fall camp knee injury. Started for 3 years at USC and was named 2nd Team All Confernce this past season. Was originally recruited as a Defensive Lineman but was switched to OL. Was a HS All American at Banning HS (Wilmington, CA) where he was coached by his uncle and AIGA Foundation member Ed Lalau. Other relatives include former USC and AIGA Foundation member Titus Tuiasosopo (USC 90-92), Navy Tuiasosopo (Utah State and LA Rams), and Mike Tuiasosopo current Arizona Defensive Line Coach.
















Pictured Top Row: Travis Tofi, Fred Matua, Alatini Malu, Taitusi Lutui, and Fili Moala
Pictured Bottom Row: Hershel Dennis, Kaluka Maiava, Salo Faraimo, and Rey Maualuga

Haloti Ngata: Defensive Tackle (Oregon)
Junior will leave school a year early after being named Consensus All American by AP, CNNSI, ESPN, FWAA, and Walter Camp. He was also named First Team All Pac-10 and was the conference Co-Defensive Player of the Year. Ngata finished the season with 61 tackles, 9 for loss, 3 sacks, 5 pass break ups and 1 QBH. He's projected to be first round draft pick. Prior to Oregon Ngata was a High School All American and Highland HS in Salt Lake City, UT. He is the cousin of USC Defensive Lineman Fili Moala and former Oregon State Linebacker David Moala.

Domata Peko: Defensive Tackle (Michigan State)
Was selected Honorable Mention All Big-10. Finished the season with 53 tackes, 3 for losses, 1 sack, 3 QBH, 2 forced fumbles and 1 touchdown fumble return of 74 yards. Is the younger brother of former Indianapolis Colts Offensive Lineman Si'itupe Peko. Attended the same junior college (College of the Canyons) and high school as San Francisco 49er Nose Tackle Isa'ako Sopoaga.

Marvin Philip: Center (Cal)
Finished career as a two time First Team Pac-10 selection. Was also named finalist for the Rimington Trophy awarded to the nation's top center. Led an offensive line that blocked for over 2500 yards rushing in the PAC-10, second to USC's 3171. Philip is projected to be a first day selection. Philip attended Oak Ridge HS in El Dorado Hills, CA.
Pictured Left to Right: Will Ta'ufo'ou, Nu'u Tafisi, Mike Kane, Norris Malale, Chet Teofilo, Matthew Malele, Marvin Philip and Abu Ma'afala center.

Donovan Raiola: Center (Wisconsin)
Finished season as a 3 time Honorable Mention Big 10 Center. Was also selected to pre-season watch lists for the Rimington Trophy (Nation's Top Center) and Lombardi Award (Nation's Top Lineman). Younger brother of Detroit Lions Center Dominic Raiola. Attended Kamehameha Schools in Honolulu.

Fahu Tahi: Fullback (BYU)
Rushed for 497 yards on 97 carries and 6 TDs. Also caught 41 passes for 375 yards and 2 Touchdowns out of the backfield. Returned to BYU as a sophomore following his LDS mission to Jacksonville, FL. Was Gatorade State Player of the Year at Granger HS (Salt Lake City, UT).

These attendees will have a leg up on the competion due to being invited to the combine. However we should keep an eye out for some other Islanders looking to the make the NFL via draft or free agency.

Steve Fifita: Utah
Kurt Kahui: San Diego State
Represented by Pacific Rim Sports Agency (Bob Apisa)
Kila Kamakawiwo'ole: UH
Joe Lobendahn: Washington
Lono Manners: UH
Represented by Pacific Rim Sports Agency (Bob Apisa)
Lafaele Vaka Manupuna: Colorado

Please send any additional thoughts or comments to aigafoundation@hotmail.com

Offensive Lineman to Watch List Class of 2007 & 2008

Offensive Line

Martin Coleman: 6'6, 285, OT, Edison HS (Huntington Beach)
Teammate of BYU Recruit Romney Fuga. Hails from Tonga. Verbal commit to USC

Sean Enesi: 6'0, 285 Carson HS (CA)
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

Enesi (pictured)

Pelo Fa'ase'e: Carson HS (CA)
2006 US Army National Combine participant

Robert Fungavaka: 5'11, 210 Rite of Passage HS (Yerington, NV)
2A All State, 1st Team Northern Nevada 2A

Philip Gapelu: 6/2.5, 300 Lynwood HS (CA)
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

Fred Koloto: 6'4, 265 Palo Alto HS (CA)
2nd Team All State All Underclassman Cal-Hi Sports, 1st Team San Jose Mercury News, Honorable Mention All Metro (San Francisco Chronicle), 1st Team All Conference, Conference Outstanding Lineman

Matagisila Lefiti: 6'2, 278 Mater Dei (Santa Ana, CA)
2nd Team All Conference
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

Elmer Lim III: 6'1, 280 Kamehameha Schools-Kapalama (Kamuela, HI)
Father is Hawaiian musician Sonny Lim.

Eli Maefau: 6'2, 340 Valley View HS (Moreno Valley, CA)
2nd Team All State All Underclassman Cal-Hi Sports, 2nd Team All Riverside County

Ricky Maefau: 6'3, 290 Valley View HS (Moreno Valley, CA)

Niko Mafuli: 6'3, 293 Saint Louis University High (St Louis, MO)
2nd Team All St Louis Metro

Kealakai Maiava: 6'0, 270, Jr Baldwin HS (Wailuku, HI)
Hon Men All State (Honolulu Advertiser and Star Bulletin), 1st Team All League, Brother of USC DB Kaluka Maiava

Matt Masifilo: Campbell HS ('Ewa Beach, HI)
2006 US Army National Combine participant

Eathyn Manumaleuna 6'2, 265 Timpview HS (Provo, UT)
Alaska State Lineman Player of the Year, 1st Team All State G, 2nd Team All State, DL Conference Lineman Player of the Year, 1st Team All Conference G and DL
Moved from East HS in Anchorage, Alaska to Provo over the summer.

Isikeli Ngatuvai: 6'2, 260 San Leandro HS (CA)
1st Team All Conference

Po'u Palelei: 6'4, 330 Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas, NV)
2nd Team All State, Nevada Prep 1st Team 4A Southern Nevada, All Conference, All Division
Had 25 pancackes and 31 tackles in 2005.

Philip Putuga: 6'5 323 Franklin HS (Stockton, CA)
Moved from Nu'uuli Poly Tech HS in American Samoa to Stockton after her sophomore year.
2006 AIGA Foundation San Fernando Valley Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

AJ Savai'i: 6'3, 315 Taft HS (CA)
1st Team All State All Underclassman Cal-Hi Sports, 1st Team All Area (Bakersfield Californian), 1st Team All Conference

Alameda Ta'amu: 6'4, 330, So Rainier Beach HS (Seattle, WA)
2nd Team All State 3A, 1st Team All League, League Lineman Player of the Year

Sione Tau: 6'6, 305 Damien HS (Honolulu, HI)
Hon Men All State (Honolulu Advertiser), Hon Men All League

Jordan Tausaga: 6'1.5, 270 Western HS (Anaheim, CA)
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

*Alex Tava: 6'5, 335 Hawthorne HS (CA)
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

Elisala Tela: 6'1, 290 Carson HS (CA)
2006 US Army National Combine participant

Jacob Timoteo: 6'1, 225 Gunderson HS (San Jose, CA)
1st Team All Conference

Arthur Toeaina: 6'2, 300 Pittsburg HS (CA)

Aaron Tonga: 6'6, 295 Cyprus HS (Magna, UT)
4A 2nd Team All State, 1st Team All Region 6

Samuel Tuala: 6'2, 285 Canyon Springs (North Las Vegas, NV)
Sunrise Northeast Division 2nd Team

Denton Tuiasosopo: 6'2, 280 Pittsburg HS (CA)

TJ Tuigamala: 6'4, 285 Paloma Valley (Menifee, CA)
1st Team All CIFSS-DV, 1st Team All Conference

*Maxwell Tuioti-Mariner: 6'4, 282 Corona HS (CA)
Younger brother of University of Hawai'i Defensive Lineman Lafu Tuioti-Mariner.
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

Manaaki Vaitai: 6'3, 273 Trinity HS (Euless, TX)
1st Team District 6-5A, 5A Texas Football 1st Team Jr, led team to first state championship
5A Texas Football 2006 Watch List

Defensive Line to Watch List Class of 2007 & 2008

Defensive Line:

Spencer Afoa: 6'0, 180 Steele Canyon HS (Spring Valley, CA)
1st Team All East County, 2nd Team All Conference

Matthew Agaiava: 6'1, 265 Lynwood HS (CA)
Younger brother of Univeristy of Nevada football players Nate and Daniel Agaiava.
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

Tukia Aholelei: 5'9, 210 Kaiser HS (Honolulu, HI)
1st Team All Conference

Isaiah Aimalefoa: 6'2, 215 Mountlake Terrace (WA)
1st Team All League

*Sam Amituana'i: 6'0, 240 Independence HS (San Jose, CA)
1st Team All Conference

Savai'i Eselu: 6'3, 235 Moanalua HS (Honolulu, HI)
Hon Men All State (Honolulu Advertiser), 2nd Team All Conference

*Toa Fa'a'iti'iti: 6'3, 200 Westminister HS (CA)
1st Team All Conference

Paul Falahola: 5'11, 260 Trinity HS (Euless, TX)
1st Team District 6-5A

Jamie Fehoko: 6'2, 220 Mt Eden (Hayward, CA)

1st Team All League

Sam Fehoko: Farrington HS (Honolulu, HI)
Honorable Mention All Conference, younger brother of Whitley Fehoko (San Diego State), son of UH Mascot Vili the Warrior, 2006 US Army National Combine participant

JJ Fifita: 6'2, 265 Birmingham HS (Lake Balboa, CA)
2nd Team All State All Underclassman Cal-Hi Sports, younger brother of SDSU Defensive Lineman Siaosi Fifita.

Simi Fili: 6'3, 325 Cottonwood HS (Salt Lake City, UT)
4A 2nd Team All State, 1st Team All Region 5

Hans Philipp: 6'0, 267 San Bernardino (Arroyo Valley HS)
Younger brother of Arizona DL Paul Philipp and Southern Illinois DL Mark Philipp.

Alex Kautai: 6'1, 302 Trinity HS (Euless, TX)
2nd Team District 6-5A
5A Texas Football 2006 Watch List

Mao Leota: 6'0, 252 Trinity HS (Euless, TX)
2nd Team District 6-5A
5A Texas Football 2006 Watch List

Scott Lavala: North Thurston (Olympia, WA)
1st Team All League

Iosefa Lee-Noa: 6'2, 200 H-Town HS (San Diego, CA)
1st Team All East County, 1st Team All Conference at Helix HS (La Mesa, CA) as a junior

*Faifo Levale: 6'2, 230 Douglas HS (Juneau)
1st Team All State DE, 1st Team All Conference, 1st Team Alaska Preps All Soph OL/DL

*Sam Mafi: 5'11, 170 St Mary's (Stockton, CA)
2nd Team All Area (Stockton Record)

Mackey Ma'ilo: 6'1, 265 Carson HS (CA)
2006 US Army National Combine participant

Siosi Matafahi: 5'10, 270 Irving HS (TX)
2nd Team District 6-5A
5A Texas Football 2006 Watch List

Joshua Manupuna: 6'1, 261 Kamehameha Schools-Kapalama (Honolulu, HI)
Nephew of former Colorado and current Washington Redskin Vaka Manupuna

Greg Mauai: 6'2, 200 Mountain View HS (Tucson, AZ)
5A Southern Section Hon Men All State

Vaugn Meatoga: 6'2, 260 Kamehameha Schools-Kapalama (Honolulu, HI)
ILH Honorable Mention

Chris Patu: 6'2, 275 Rainier Beach (Seattle, WA)
1st Team All League

Matt Pupu: 6'0, 225 Mililani HS (HI)
1st Team All Conference

Joe Pututau: Granger HS (West Valley City, UT)
2006 US Army National Combine participant

Tony Savai'i: 6'2, 225 Taft HS (CA)
Bakersfield Californian All Area Hon Men, 1st Team All Conference

Junior Sefo: 6'2, 290 Taft HS (CA)
Bakersfield Californian All Area Hon Men, 1st Team All Conference

*Hamani Stevens: Hemet HS (CA)
1st Team All Conference, younger brother of UTEP signee and LDS Missionary Tevita Stevens

Randy Tavu'i: 6'0, 200 North Thurston HS (Olympia, WA)
2nd Team All State 3A, 1st Team All Conference

Johnny Tivao: 6'0, 305 Paramount HS (CA)
1st Team All Conference, 2nd Team LB Press Telegram All Area

Ana Tuiasosopo: St Louis HS (Honolulu, HI)
Hon Men All League, Son of Ana Tuiasosopo (former UH football player)
2006 US Army National Combine participant

Sam Tuione: 6'2, 220 Bingham HS (South Jordan, UT)
1st Team All Region 3

Kaniela Tuipulotu: 6'2, 261 Kahuku HS (HI)
1st Team All State (Honolulu Advertiser), 2nd Team All State (Honolulu Star Bulletin)
2006 US Army National Combine participant

Christian Tupou: 6'2, 260 Grant HS (Sacramento, CA)
1st Team All State All Underclassman Cal-Hi Sports, 2005 2nd Team All Northern California
(Nor Cal Preps), Hon Men All Section, 1st Team All Metro (Sacramento Bee)
Had 16 sacks, 85 tackles, and 3 fumble recoveries as a Junior.

Michael Tupuola: 5'10, 230 Hilltop HS (Chula Vista, CA)
1st Team All Conference

PJ Utuutuvanu: 6'1, 280 Hug HS (Reno, NV)
2nd Team All Conference

* Indicates Class of 2008

Please send comments to aigafoundation@aol.com

Linebackers to Watch List Class of 2007 & 2008

Linebackers:
Lamont Afuvai: 6'1, 214 Franlin Pierce HS (Seattle, WA)
1st Team All League

David Angilau: 6'4, 240 Niwot HS (CO)
3A 1st Team All State, 3A Defensive Player of the Year (Rocky Mountain News)
Had 65 tackles, 32 solo tackles, 15 sacks, and 25 tackles as a junior. Orignally prepped at Logan HS in Union City (CA).

Tyler Beck: 6'1.5, 200 Vista Murrieta (Murrieta, CA)
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information
Had 70 tackles and 11 sacks as a junior.

Justin Lata: 5'10, 226 Narbonne (Harbor City, CA)
2nd Team All Los Angeles City

Sisi Moala: LB, 6'2, 230, Sr (Johnson HS, Sacramento, CA)

Tu'ugalue "Louie" Muasau: 6'1, 220 Buena HS (Sierra Vista, AZ)
5A Southern Section All State 1st Team, Tucson Citizen Southern Arizona 1st Team, 2006 US Army National Combine participant (pictured below). Brother Jake Muasau (WR, 6'1, 205, Jr) is a junior to watch.
Had 117 tackles as a junior

*Ryan Panapa: 6'2, 245, Jr (St Bonaventure HS, Ventura, CA)
1st Team All Conference
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

Joape Pela: 6'3, 280 Mountain View HS (CA)
1st Team All Conference
2006 AIGA Foundation San Jose Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

Shawn Pili: 5'10, 210 East HS (Anchorage, AK)
2nd Team All Conference

Karl Pututau: 6'2, 240, Sr (Tigard HS, OR)
1st Team All Conference

*Earnie Sagiao: 5'11, 225, Jr (Edison HS, Huntington Beach, CA)
1st Team All Conference

To'o Samuelu: Berkeley HS (CA)
1st Team All Conference

Tyler Seau-Sparks: 5'11, 215, Sr (Mission Hills HS, San Marcos, CA)
He might be better suited as a safety in college, but the run-stuffing inside linebacker and son of future Hall-of-Famer Junior Seau is in the middle of things as an high school inside linebacker.

Isaac Solaita: 5'8, 165 Klohowya (Silverdale, WA)
1st Team All West Sound, 1st Team All Conference

*Wally So'oto: 6'0, 225, Jr (Carlsbad HS, CA)
1st Team All State Soph Cal-Hi Sports

Tyrone Tafili: Hunter HS (West Valley City, UT)
2006 US Army National Combine participant

George Tafuna: Kahuku HS (HI)
1st Team All Conference
2006 US Army National Combine participant

*Alek Taliulu: 6'1, 215, Jr (Tehachapi HS, CA)
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

*Wesley Tameifuna: 5'11, 215, Jr (Santiago HS, Corona, CA)
Hon Men All Conference

Lincoln Togiai: 6'1, 250, Sr (Elk Grove HS, CA):

Lewis Tuiavi'i Jr: 6'2, 200, Franklin HS (Stockon, CA)
Moved to Stockton from Leone High School in Amerika Samoa.
2006 AIGA Foundation San Fernando Valley/Ventura Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

Apiata Tuihalamaka: 6'3.5, 205 Serra HS (Gardena, CA)
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

Masi Tuitama: 6'2, 205, Sr (Pacifica HS, Oxnard, CA)

Nate Vaiomounga: 6'0, 200, Sr (Corona HS, CA)
PE Riverside Hon Men All Area

Devin Vea: 5'6, 150, Kealakehe HS (Kailua-Kona, HI)
Hon Men All State (Honolulu Advertiser), 1st Team All Conference

William Vea: 6'1, 220 Pharangat Valley HS (Alamo, NV)
1st Team Southern Nevada 1A (8-Man), younger brother of UNLV freshman George Vea.
Had 112 tackles and 1 int. On the offensive side had 79 carries for 719 yards and 18 TDs. 14 Recpeptions for 338 yards and 4 TDs.

*Reuben Faialaga Willis: 5'10, 220, Jr (Mayfair HS, Lakewood, CA)
1st Team All State Soph Cal-Hi Sports
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

*Indicates Class of 2008

Defensive Backs to Watch List Class of 2007 & 2008

Defensive Backs

*Jeff Mueller: 5'11, 151, Carson HS (CA)
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information Younger brother of El Camino CC Defensive Back Elisha Mueller.














Pita Tanuvasa: Kahuku HS (HI)
2006 US Army National Combine participant
Had 22 tackles as a junior and 5 interceptions, 2 returned for TDs.

*Shiloah Te'o: Kahuku HS (HI)
2006 US Army National Combine participant

Mark Tinahui: 6'0, 185 Paloma Valley HS (Menifee, CA)
2nd Team All League as DB/WR

Receivers and Tight Ends to Watch List Class of 2007 & 2008

Wide Receivers

Niko Aumua: 6’4, 200, Jr (Alameda HS, CA)

Kawika Emsley-Pai: 5'11, 180, Sr (Jackson HS, Mill Creek, WA)
2nd Team All State (4A), 1st Team All Area Athlete (Seattle Times), 1st Team All League

Jordan Ho Ching: 5'11, 175, Sr (Pac-5, Honolulu, HI
3rd Team All State (Honolulu Advertiser), Hon Men All State (Honolulu Star Bulletin), 1^st Team All ILH WR

Lofa Li'ili'i: 5'9, 165, Sr ('Aiea HS, HI)
1^st Team All State WR (Honolulu SB), 1^st Team All State Athlete (Honolulu Advertiser), 1^st Team All OIA WR

Jake Muasau: 6’1, 205, Jr (Buena HS, Sierra Vista, AZ)

Tight Ends

Rhett Ellison: 6’5, 225, Sr (St Francis HS, Mountain View, CA)
All Area Hon Men (San Francisco Chronicle and San Jose Mercury News), 2nd Team All League, verbally committed to Virginia Tech, son of former San Francisco 49er Riki Ellison

Savai’i Eselu: 6’3, 235, Sr (Moanalua HS, Honolulu, HI)
Honorable Mention All State, 2nd Team All Conference (DE), may also be recruited as a defensive lineman or offensive lineman

Kaneakua Friel: 6’4, 215, Sr (Kamehameha School-Kapalama, Honolulu, HI)
Verbal commit to BYU, also plays DE

Devin Mahina: 6’6, 225, Sr (Upland HS, CA)
Played behind Oregon State recruit John Reese. Had 50 tackles and 3 sacks as a junior DE.

David Rivers: 6’4, 230, Sr (Mililani HS, HI)
3rd Team All State, 2nd Team All Conference, brother of Hawai'i WR Jason Rivers

Julius Sosaia: 6’3, 245, Sr (San Lorenzo Valley HS, Felton, CA)

Ikani Vaitohi: 6’3, 260, Sr (Spanish Fork HS, UT)
Was injured part of 2005 season

Running Backs and Quarterbacks to Watch List Class of 2007 & 2008

The 2006 football season is a long ways away but the season is year round in terms of staying in shape, honing ones skills, and keeping up the grades in the classroom. Perhaps the most decorated players going into their senior years are Roman Pula of Lincoln HS (Tacoma), Vai Liu of San Mateo, Thomas Su'a St Joseph (Santa Maria, CA) and Viliami Vaipulu of Riverside Poly. Others will not doubtedly emerge in places like Hawai'i, American Samoa, Utah, and Texas. The list of sophomore and junior running backs to watch for the 2006 (2007 recruits) is as follows and is subject to changes and updates.

Running Backs
*Keola Antolin: 5'8, 170 Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas, NV)
2006 US Army National Combine participant

Josh Fitisemanu: Murray HS (UT)
4A 2nd Team All State, 1st Team All Region 5

Roy Helu Jr: 5'11, 190 San Ramon Valley HS (Danville, CA)
Hon Men All Metro (SF Chronicle), 1st Team All Conference
Rushed for 1526 yards, 19 TDs, and averaged 8 yards a rush. Had 30 catches for 500 yards.















Daniel Lavatai: 6'0, 210 Leuzinger HS (Hawthorne, CA)
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

*Ina Liaina: 6'0, 195 Rio Mesa HS (Oxnard, CA)
1st Team All League

Vai Liu: 5'10, 180 San Mateo HS
All Metro Hon Men (SF Chronicle), 1st Team All League

*Kalama Molisi: 5'7, 180 Skyline (Salt Lake City, UT)
5A 1st Team All State, 2nd Team All Region 2

*Ricky Pemasa: 6'0, 190 Lutheran HS (Orange, CA)
1st Team All League
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

Roman Pula: 6'0, 205 Lincoln HS (Tacoma, WA)
2nd Team All State (4A), Area Player of the Year, 1st Team All Area (Tacoma Tribune), 1st
Team All League, League Player of the Year
Rushed for 1682 yards and 20 TDs with 75 tackes as a safety as a junior.




Thomas Su'a: St Joseph HS (Santa Maria, CA)
All Santa Barbara County (Santa Barbara Press News), 1st Team All League

*Jack Sula: 5'11, 175 Carson HS (CA)
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

*Isaiah Tapusoa: Granger HS (Salt Lake City, UT)
1st Team All Region 6

Joshua Tauanu'u: 5'10, 183 H-Town Christian (San Diego, CA)
2006 AIGA Foundation San Diego Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

Austin Tialavea: 5'10, 230 Chaparral (Las Vegas, NV)
2nd Team Sunrise Northeast Division

Tobias Togi: 6'0, 225 Evergreen HS (Seattle, WA)
2005 Seamount King Conference Hon Men
2006 US Army National Combine participant

Johnny Toloumu: 6/1.5, 195, Long Beach Poly (CA)
2006 AIGA Foundation Long Beach Combine Participant--contact George Malauulu at aigafoundation@aol.com for more information

Gabe Tuata: 5'7, 160 Kealakehe HS (Kailua-Kona, HI)
2nd Team All State (Honolulu Advertiser), 1st Team All League

*Tiuke Tuipulotu: Serra HS (San Mateo, CA)
All Metro Hon Men (SF Chronicle), 2nd Team All Con, Con Soph Player of the Year

Viliami Vaipulu: 6'1, 175 Riverside Poly (CA)
All County (Riverside PE), 1st Team All League

Quarterbacks

Bryson Beirne: 6'3, 215, Sr (Pac-5, Honolulu, HI):
Verbal commitment to University of Arizona, attends Mid-Pacific Institute

Ronnie Fouch: 6'2, 180, Sr (Redlands East Valley, CA):
Verbal commitment to University of Washington. Mother attended Kamehameha Schools and was a VB standout at the school.

TC McCartney: 6'3, 185, Sr (Fairview HS, Boulder, CO)
Son of former Colorado Buffalo QB Sal Aunese and grandson of former Colorado Head Coach Bill McCartney.

*Watson Togiailua: 5'10, 180, Jr (Auburn Mountainview HS, WA)
Option quarterback leads the second-year school.

*Tyler Tuiasosopo: 6'1, 204, Jr (Mariner HS, Everett, WA)
Younger brother of Washington Linebacker Trenton Tuiasosopo and cousin of Oakland Raiders Quarterback Marques Tuiasosopo.

* Indicates Class of 2008



Please send comments to aigafoundation@aol.com or visit our sister site Power Prep Sports.

2005 AIGA Foundation All Poly Football Second Team Defense

DL Conan Amituana'i Long Beach Poly (CA)
Signed Arizona
DL Joseph Faifili Kahuku HS (HI)
Signed Utah
DL Pauli Latu Hunter HS (Salt Lake City, UT)
Signed Utah
DL Henry Niutei Trinity HS (Euless, TX)
Signed TCU
DL Michael Sipili Damien HS (Honolulu, HI)
Signed Colorado
DL Wes Tunuufi-Sauvao Leesville HS (LA)
Signed Central Florida
LB Joseph Folau Valley HS (Sacramento, CA)
Signed Sacramento State
LB Kevin Unga Kahuku HS (HI)
Signed Oregon State
LB Jonathan Ve'e Alameda HS (CA)
Unsigned
DB Stephen Lei St Louis HS (Honolulu, HI
Will walk-on at the University of Hawai'i.
DB Jake Magalei Bountiful HS (UT)
Signed Weber State
DB Nephi Tipa Childress HS (TX)
Signed Snow College

Honorable Mention
DL: Neli A'asa Big Rapids HS (MI)-Utah, David Alefosio Lincoln HS (Tacoma, WA), Cameron Coulter Franklin HS (Stockton, CA)-San Jose State, Ailao Eliapo South San Francisco HS (CA)-San Jose State, John Finau Dominguez HS (Compton, CA), Peni Fiuangaihetau Lahainaluna HS (Lahaina, HI)-Weber State, Monte Keiaho Logan HS (UT)-Utah State, Vasa Kuresa Radford HS (Honolulu, HI), Iosefa Lee Noa Helix HS (La Mesa, CA), Faifo Levale Douglas HS (Juneau, AK), Daniel Mafoe Carson HS, Posiula Maluia Compton HS (CA), Saili Manu McQueen HS (Reno, NV), Lolomana Mikaele Damien HS (Honolulu, HI)-Arizona, Peyton Ma'o Sinagua HS (Flagstaff, AZ)-Hawai'i, David Nafe Highland (Salt Lake City, UT)-Utah State, Zach Niusulu Barstow HS (CA)-Arizona State, Jon Pili East HS (Anchorage, AK), Alex Sagale Long Beach Poly (CA)-Texas Southern, Sammy Salamasina Moon Valley HS (Phoenix, AZ), Gorb Seui Rowland HS (Rowland Heights, CA), Siufaga Taufi West HS (Anchorage, AK), Tanu Paleafei Kailua HS (HI), Elliot Purcell St Louis HS (Honolulu, HI)-Hawai'i, John Sagapolutele Farrington HS (Honolulu, HI), Jonah Sataraka Rogers HS (Puyallup, WA)-Idaho, McManus Tago Balboa HS (San Francisco, CA), Ben Takitaki Eisenhower HS (Rialto, CA), Laman Toianivao Brighton HS (Salt Lake City, UT), Alasi Toilolo Kapolei HS (HI)-Hawai'i, Philip Toleafoa South El Monte (El Monte, CA), Buddy Tuamasaga Long Beach Poly (CA)-Texas Southern, Isaac Tuilaepa 'Aiea HS (HI), Meshac Tuilaepa Spanaway Lake (WA), Bubba Tuinei Cottonwood HS (Salt Lake City, UT)-Utah, Jeremiah Tupuola Crespi HS (Encino, CA), Kamalu Umu St Louis HS (Honolulu, HI), Micah Wiley Kahuku HS (HI), Zeke Wiley Orem HS (UT)-Utah.


LB: Keao Alo Kahuku HS (HI), Shawn Asiata Hunter HS (Salt Lake City, UT)-Snow College, Mike Aiono Rancho Alamitos (Garden Grove, CA), Matt Eseroma Azle HS (TX), Paulo Fuiava Kent-Meridian (Kent, WA)-Central Washington, Mapesone Galuega Balboa HS (San Franciso, CA), Josh Lehauli Douglas HS (Juneau, AK), Mychael Leaupepe Camarillo HS (CA), Mana Lolotai Kamehameha Schools (Honolulu, HI)-Oregon State, Mike Lutu Carson HS (CA), Oscar Mafuli Hazlewood Central (MO)-Lindenwood, Pasikale Manaea Lakes HS (Lakewood, WA)-Central Washington, Daniel Mareko Faga'itua HS (AS)-UNLV, Siosaia Moeakiola Trinity HS (Euless, TX), Austine Moimoi Tyee HS (Seatac, WA), David Naeata Chaffey HS (Ontario), Siosaia Polota Kea'au HS (HI), Niko Poti Tualatin HS (OR), Reagan Seui Rowland HS (Rowland Heights, CA), Matt Taufo'ou St Francis HS (Mountain View, CA), Paul Tinahui Paloma Valley (Menifee, CA), Dennis Tinitali Lincoln HS (Tacoma, WA), Paul Tuakalau East HS (Salt Lake City, UT), Jeff Tu'ua Artesia HS (Lakewood, CA)-Idaho State, Puiaki Uaisale Ygnacio Valley HS (Concord, CA), Peter Vaovasa Balboa HS (San Francisco, CA), George Vea Pharanagat Valley HS (Alamo, NV)

DB: Afa Bridenstine Kahuku HS (HI)-Hawai'i, Siavalu Failuga Wai'anae HS (HI), Tai Papali'i Kealakehe HS (Kailau-Kona, HI), Patrick Tafua Westminister HS (CA).

Please send any comments or suggestions regarding the selection to aigafoundation@hotmail.com or visit Power Prep Sports

2005 AIGA Foundation All Poly Football First Team Defense

This was by far the hardest team to come up due to the large amount of respective players to choose from. We decided to go with 5 Defensive Lineman, 3 Linebackers, and 3 Defensive Backs. The reason being there is an ample pool of DLs and LBs and less DB's to choose from.

DL Cameron Elisara 6'3, 275 Ferris HS (Spokane, WA)
Signed Washington
First Team All State (4A), Selected by Tacoma Tribune as Pacific Northwest Nuggest 1st Team, also First Team All Conference. Father Matt Elisara played football at rival Washington State (All PAC-10 1981) and for the USFL's Denver Gold in 1983.

DL David Fonua 6'2, 255 Southeast HS (Brandeton, FL)
Signed South Florida
2nd Team All State (4A), Two-time Sarasota Herald Tribune first team all area selection. Had 71 tackles and 13 sacks during his senior year. He will join fellow Tongan brothers Paul and Siaosi Uhatafe at South Florida.

DL Sione Fua 6'2, 290 Crespi HS (Encino, CA)
Signed Stanford
One of most highly sought-after recruits in the country. Led Crespi to second consecutive Southern Section Title (DX). Selected First Team DL All State by Cal-Hi Sports (Med Schools), 1st Team All CIF on the offensive side, All CIFSS-DX 1st Team DL, Los Angeles Times 1st Team, and All Del Rey League. Will join Polynesian student-athletes Tauala'i Fonoti and Tevita Pritchard on the Cardinal squad.

DL Isaac Leatiota 6'4, 295 Wilcox HS (Santa Clara, CA)
Signed Cal
1st Team All Metro (SF Chronicle), 1st Team San Jose Mercury News, 2nd Team All State CAl-Hi Sports, All Central Coast Section, 1st Team All Confernce (De Anza), Outstanding Conference Lineman. Ended season with 60 tackles on defense and 70 pancake blocks on offense. Cousin of Cal DL Abu Ma'afala. May play Offensive Line at Berkeley.

DL Matangi Tonga 6'2, 270 Aragon HS (San Mateo, CA)
Signed BYU
Played defensive end, linebacker and defensive tackle in high school ... projected to play defensive end at BYU ... First-Team All-League junior and senior years ... First-Team All-State junior and senior years (Cal-Hi Sports)... First-Team All-Metro junior and senior years (San Francisco Chronicle) ... First-Team All-County junior and senior years ... First-Team All-Central Coast selection junior and senior years ... team MVP senior year ... San Mateo Daily Journal, San Mateo Daily News and San Mateo County Times Player of the Year ... led team to a 9-2 record as a senior ... had 11 sacks and 19 tackles for loss despite constant double teams his senior year ... ran for 837 yards and 20 touchdowns on 105 carries ... runs a 4.8 in the 40 ... brother Manase is a fullback at BYU...lans to serve a Church mission after freshman year

LB Justin Nonu 6'1, 240 Oceanside HS (CA)
Signed Colorado
Nonu follows the path of former Oceanside Pirate footballers at Colorado, Sal Aunese (87-88) and Oakland Salave'a (88-89). Nonu was selected San Diego Tribune Herald Defensive Player of the Year in CIF San Diego County. Also was selected 1st Team All State (Cal-Hi Sports), All CIF San Diego Section, All North County, All Avocado League. As a senior Nonu racked up 177 total tackles, with 18 for losses, including 5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, leading a defense that allowed only 212 yards per game.

LB Zac Pauga 6'0, 210, Green Mountain HS (Lakewood, CO)
Signed Colorado State
First Team All State (4A), Two-time All Conference selection played defensive end and running back as a senior...credited with team-most 75 tackles in 2005...also led the team with 15 tackles for loss...made 16 quarterback sacks for 58 yards lost to lead the team in that category...rushed for 660 yards on 128 carries as a senior, second on the team in that category

LB Ben Taifane 6'2, 230Franklin HS (Stockton, CA)
Signed San Jose State
Comes to Coach Dick Tomey's program from Stockton via Leone High School in American Samoa following his junior year of high school. Taifane will be joined by Franklin HS and Leone HS teammate Cameron Coulter. Taifane was named Stockton Record Defensive Player of the Year, also selected 1st Team All Sacramento-San Joaquin Section, and All League. Credited with 133 tackles and 14 sacks his senior year. Taifane's uncle, Peni Iosefa, was an All League performer at San Jose State. Taifane and Coulter were brought to Stockton by AIGA Foundation Memeber Jeff Mauga formerly of Utah State and Leone High School. Taifane will participate in the AIGA Foundation's 1st Annual Cal North-South Poly All Star Game on April 15th at Long Beach Veterans Stadium.


DB Starr Fuimaono 5'11, 210 Bonita Vista (Chula Vista, CA)
Signed UNLV
Starr Fuimaono will join brother Howard (DL) at UNLV. Fuimaono was selected 2nd Team All CIF San Diego Section and 2nd Team All County (San Diego Tribune) as a running back. Carried the ball 144 times for 1085 yards and 18 TDs. Fuimaono was also selected all conference and league as a DB, which he will play at UNLV.


DB Orlando Misa'alefua 6'0, 190 Ft Campbell HS (KY)
Signed Western Kentucky
1st Team All State (Louisville Courier Journal), 2nd Team All State (Media). Originally verballed to Louisville prior to selecting Western Kentucky.


DB Suaesi Tuimaunei 6'1, 185 Kahuku HS (HI)
Signed Oregon State
Will join high school teammates Kaulin Krebs, Devin Unga, and Kevin Unga from Kahuku's Hawai'i State Championship team at Oregon State. Tuimauinei follows another Kahuku alum at Safety, current freshman Al Afalava. Tuimaunei was selected 2nd Team All State by the Honolulu Star Bulletin and Advertiser.

Please send any comments or suggestions regarding the selection to aigafoundation@hotmail.com or visit Power Prep Sports