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A versatile California high school player has pledged to accept a University of Hawaii football scholarship and compete at defensive end/outside linebacker.
"It was an easy choice," said Jahlani Tavai, a senior at Mira Costa High. "I’ve always loved Hawaii since I was little. I have a lot of family out there. I can always see them. And I actually do follow and love their football team."
Tavai said he will sign a letter of intent on Feb. 5, the first day prep prospects may put commitments in writing.
One of Tavai’s brothers plays for USC, another for Kansas.
"We all made a deal we’d all go to different colleges and spread our last name around the country," Tavai said. "That’s going to help."
Tavai said he is 6 feet 4, 235 pounds and can run 40 yards in 4.65 seconds.
Tavai, who played nose tackle and tight end at Mira Costa, was told his quickness, agility and strength will be helpful in the transition to stand-up end at UH.
Despite the Mustangs’ run-oriented offense, Tavai caught two scoring passes. He was active at nose, often eluding double teams.
Tavai was born on the mainland but spent nearly a decade living in American Samoa.
"We come from a background where rugby is our main sport," Tavai said.
After moving to California, he began playing football. Tavai also competes in rugby and basketball. He said he has been a longtime fan of the Rainbow Warriors.
"I know they had a rough season, but I felt they were a young team," Tavai said. "I want to go there to help out. I feel I can contribute my athleticism to Hawaii. It’ll be fun."
Tavai said he hopes to pursue a degree in a field that involves mathematics.
"I love anything that has to do with numbers," Tavai said.
Four UH defensive ends completed their eligibility at the end of the 2013 season.
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