Viane Moala’s blocked kick to beat Fresno State was forged on the recruiting trail

The University of Hawaii football team would not have edged Fresno State on Saturday nor remained in contention for a postseason bowl if head coach Nick Rolovich had not watched an all-star game in January.

While viewing a telecast of the JPS Paradise Classic, Rolovich noticed Viane Moala, a 6-foot-7 lineman from American Samoa.

“I saw how hard he played,” Rolovich recalled.

Offensive line coach Chris Naeole, who had been in contact with Moala the past year, and defensive line coach Legi Suiaunoa, UH’s point recruiter in American Samoa, were helpful in encouraging Moala to commit to the Rainbow Warriors.

“He was looking for a place that was comfortable,” Rolovich said. “I’m glad we ended up being his home. He fits in well. He’s going to get better and better as a player.”

Moala blocked Fresno State’s field-goal attempt from 34 yards as time expired to preserve the Warriors’ 14-13 victory at Bulldog Stadium. The Warriors finished the Mountain West schedule at 4-4, matching their total number of league victories the previous four seasons, and improved to 5-7 overall. If the Warriors defeat UMass in Saturday’s regular-season finale they likely will qualify for a postseason bowl because of the projected shortage of eligible teams for the 82 postseason spots.

Moala has been a surprise contributor as a true freshman. Moala, who is a good student, met the requirements to enroll at UH in June. Because of injuries and Kennedy Tulimasealii’s suspension, there was a need on the defensive line. Suiaunoa successfully lobbied for Moala not to redshirt this season. Moala opened as a defensive end before moving to defensive tackle and nose tackle. While leverage is key in the trenches, Moala compensates with strength and the ability to play low. Moala now weighs nearly 300 pounds.

“He’s a huge man, and he has an even bigger heart,” Rolovich said. “He does the right things. That’s why he’s making such an impact. He cares so much about his teammates and his effort. We need more guys like him.”

Rolovich was impressed with UH’s defense, which struggled in the opening quarters of the previous four games. But against Fresno State, the Warriors forced eight punts and six three-and-out drives.

“They don’t flinch,” Rolovich said of the defense. “They just go out and play.”

Saturday’s game will be a full-circle situation for Rolovich. In 2012, after not being retained on UH’s coaching staff, Rolovich had an opportunity to coach at UMass. He had two interviews there, but never joined the staff and instead signed with Nevada as offensive coordinator.

“I felt (Nevada) was a better opportunity,” said Rolovich, who was raised in the Bay Area. But during the interview process with UMass, Rolovich met Jason Cvercko, who is now UH’s recruiting coordinator and pro liaison. “I knew right away that guy was good,” Rolovich said.