Defensive tackle Viane Moala, who played two seasons for the University of Hawaii football team, has transferred to the University of Utah.
In a Facebook post, Moala thanked the UH coaches for “believing that a kid from American Samoa could be a Division I athlete. It’s been a great ride and a memorable journey as a Warrior. However, after discussing with my family and lots of prayer, I have decided to pursue other opportunities to further my education (and) football career.”
Moala, who is 6 feet 7 and 290 pounds, requested — and received — his release from his UH football scholarship last month. He also withdrew from UH classes this spring semester.
As part of the conditions of his release, according to people familiar with the situation, Moala agreed not to sign with a team on the Rainbow Warriors’ schedule the next three years. That clause prevented Moala from transferring to another Mountain West Conference school. The Mountain West also has a rule that requires a player to sit out two seasons when transferring between member schools. Utah, a member of the Pac-12, is not contracted to play UH the next several years.
Moala still would have to redshirt this coming season in accordance with NCAA transfer rule. He also must be in good academic standing to be eligible for a football scholarship during his first year at Utah. After redshirting, he will have two years to play two seasons.
Moala played in 24 games for UH, making eight starts at defensive tackle. He has blocked four kicks, including two this season.
Moala is the fourth player with starting experience to leave the program this year. Quarterback Dru Brown, who made 22 consecutive starts, agreed to join Oklahoma State as a graduate transfer after he earns a bachelor’s degree in June. Slotback Dylan Collie, who will earn a degree in May, plans to play his senior season elsewhere. Collie has visited Brigham Young, where he redshirted as a freshman in 2012 before going on a church mission, and has recruiting trips planned at Vanderbilt and Wake Forest. Keala Santiago, who started four games for UH, reportedly is headed to Utah as a walk-on.
