One of the state’s top high school football players has pledged to accept a scholarship from the University of Hawaii.

"Yes, I am a Warrior," said Kahuku High linebacker Bennetton "Benny" Fonua, who was named the Star-Advertiser’s 2011 Defensive Player of the Year.

Fonua said he made the oral commitment to "Uncle Norm" during a home visit Saturday morning.

"Uncle Norm, a.k.a. Norm Chow," Fonua said of the Warriors’ first-year head coach.

Fonua said his late grandfather, John Farley, and Chow were good friends. Chow spoke at Farley’s funeral.

"(Chow) really knows my grandfather," Fonua said. "That’s really close to my heart. He knows where I’m coming from. I thank him for that."

Fonua said he is 6 feet 1, 220 pounds and capable of running 40 yards in 4.6 seconds.

For Kahuku’s state-championship team, Fonua played outside linebacker, inside linebacker, nose guard and tight end.

"Wherever the team needed me," Fonua said.

Kahuku coach Reggie Torres praised Fonua as a "hard worker."

"He’s very respectful," Torres said. "He’s always, ‘yes, sir,’ or ‘no, sir.’ "

Fonua said Chow’s hiring factored in his decision.

"He’s an outstanding coach — very straightforward, very direct to the point," Fonua said. "He said when he’s committed to something, he’s really committed. He’s committed to the program."

Fonua added: "He really wants the Hawaii players to stay home and play for UH. If we stay, he promises to coach us to the best of his ability."

Fonua has a 3.8 grade-point average. He said he aspires to study civil engineering.

"I try my best in school," Fonua said. "I really try to give it my all. My main goal is to get a degree in college. Education is the main thing. It will be something to help me get a good job and provide for my family."

He is equally passionate about the sport.

"Football, to me, is more than a game," Fonua said. "It’s something special. For me, it about what you play for. I play for my family. That’s the reason I play the way I do. I’ll do anything to make my family proud."

Fonua said he will put his commitment in writing on Feb. 1, the first day recruits can sign binding national letters of intent.