Saint Louis defensive tackle Faatui Tuitele is one of five finalists for the Polynesian high school football player of the year, Polynesian Football Hall of Fame officials announced today.

Tuitele, who helped the undefeated Crusaders to a state championship last month, has committed to the University of Washington. He is joined by running back George Holani (St. John Bosco, Bellflower, Calif.); wide receiver Puka Nacua (Orem High, Utah); linebacker Henry To’oto’o (De La Salle High, Concord, Calif.) and quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa (Thompson High, Alabaster, Ala.). Tagovailoa, the younger brother of Heisman Trophy runner-up Tua, began his high school career at Kapolei High before the family moved to Alabama, where Tua is a quarterback for the Crimson Tide.

The finalists will be recognized during next month’s PFHOF enshrinement weekend. The player of the year will be announced at the Jan. 18 dinner at the Sheraton Waikiki.

All five finalists have been selected to play in the Polynesian Bowl on Jan. 19 at Aloha Stadium.