Hawaii gets running back

Attempting to reload its running game, the University of Hawaii football team received a commitment from a junior college running back. 

Mel Davis of Santa Monica College said he will sign a letter of intent with the Rainbow Warriors on Feb. 4, the opening day of the signing period. Davis said he made his decision after meeting with UH coach Norm Chow and running backs coach Wayne Moses. 

“They seemed down to earth,” Davis said. “I connected with them in the meeting.”

Davis said he is 6 feet 2, 230 pounds and capable of sprinting 40 yards in sub-4.6 seconds. He also is a willing blocker, an asset in the Warriors’ offense. 

“I love to do whatever  helps my team win,” Davis said. “If they want me to go out there and play center, I’ll do it.”

The Warriors’ top rusher, Joey Iosefa, completed his UH career at the end of the 2014 season. Steven Lakalaka, who is recovering from hamstring surgery, and Diocemy Saint Juste are among the contenders at running back. 

Davis has played running back since he was a member of Pop Warner’s Carson (Calif.) Colts. 

“I’ve been playing since I was 7 years old,” he said. “Even when I was 7, I was competitive. Playing flag football, whatever team I was on, I wanted to win.”

He researched videos and stories of two running backs who would become his inspiration — Walter Payton, the late Hall of Fame back,  and Eddie George, a tall Heisman Trophy winner with speed and strength. 

Two years ago, Davis was set to attend Washington until the NCAA Clearinghouse ruled a core course did not meet eligibility requirements. Davis said he took that course at another high school. Instead, he attended Santa Monica. 

Last season, he rushed for 534 yards and seven touchdowns. Colorado State, Illinois, California and Portland State showed interest, but he chose UH. 

Davis said a close friend, former UH quarterback Justin Alo, endorsed the Warriors. 

“He told me nothing but great things about Hawaii,” said Davis, adding he wanted to play under Chow. “Norm Chow is legendary.”

Davis said his goals are to work his way into the rotation, learn to surf and earn a bachelor’s degree. He said he volunteers for Christ Our Ministry church’s program to help troubled youths.