In rebuilding the defensive line, the Hawaii football team received an oral commitment from a defensive tackle who has worked as a builder.

Sione Lavaka of Laney College in Oakland, Calif., said he will sign with the Warriors next Wednesday, the first day mid-year transfers can put their commitments in writing.

Lavaka said he chose the Warriors because of the coaching staff, particularly point recruiter Tony Tuioti.

“They’re laid-back, chill guys,” Lavaka said. “I can relate to them.”

Lavaka, who is 6 feet 3 and 302 pounds, also received offers from Nevada and San Jose State. Arizona and Fresno State discontinued contact after changing head coaches. Utah and San Diego State have made pitches in the past two weeks.

“Before I took my recruiting trip” to Hawaii two weeks ago, Lavaka said, “I was up in the air. After meeting all of the coaches, everything was concrete. The coaches are awesome. I really like Coach Tony.”

As a Castlemont High (Oakland) student, Lavaka did not play football.

“My dad needed help at work,” Lavaka said. “Instead of going to practice after school, I helped in landscaping and (working with) concrete. I wanted to help my family. I wanted to work instead of playing football.”

Laney offensive coordinator John Beam had known Lavaka for several years. Beam was former UH receiver Davone Bess’ high school coach. Beam recruited Lavaka to play defensive tackle for Laney.

“I was nervous,” Lavaka said of his first football practice. “I didn’t know what to expect.”

Lavaka developed into a dominant defender capable of holding the point.

“I’ve learned a lot at Laney,” Lavaka said. “I’m willing to learn a lot from Coach Tony.”

Lavaka said he will enroll at UH in January and participate in the offseason conditioning program and spring training.

Lavaka is the second mid-year player to make a commitment since Rich Miano was named interim head coach last week.

Justin Turner, a cornerback, will join the Warriors in January.