Former University of Hawaii defensive tackle Lance Samuseva has emerged as a leading candidate to join the Rainbow Warriors’ coaching staff.

There still is a lengthy vetting process, including an extensive background check, before any move can be finalized.

The Warriors are still sorting through titles and assignments. If hired, Samuseva is expected to join newcomers Abraham Elimimian and Jake Cookus as assistant coaches. Elimimian and Cookus are leading contenders to fill vacancies, although they are awaiting final approval. Cookus previously coached Montana’s special teams and defensive backs. Elimimian, who played cornerback at UH for four seasons through 2004, was Simon Fraser’s defensive coordinator last season.

Samuseva was a four-year letterman for the Warriors through 2003. Samuseva and Elimimian were UH teammates for four years.

At about 6 feet, Samuseva was a tough and reliable point defender. He was named the Warriors’ most inspirational player as a junior and senior.

Samuseva, a Farrington High graduate, played in the 2004 Hula Bowl, and had stints in Italy and the Indoor Football League.

In 2012, Norm Chow’s first year as UH head coach, Samuseva re-joined the Warriors as a volunteer intern. He worked under defensive line coach Lewis Powell, who is now an assistant coach at Utah.

"He did a great job," Powell said.

Samuseva began earning a modest stipend in 2013.

"He’s loyal and he works hard," Powell said.

Samuseva held several responsibilities, including scouting and video breakdowns.

"He worked his butt off and he’s loyal to Coach Chow," Powell said. "He has the respect of the coaches, the players and also people who played at UH. I’m happy for him. He deserves it."

Former UH defensive end Tavita Woodard said Samuseva is "one of those guys who eats, breathes and lives football."

Former UH nose tackle Moses Samia added: "He’s a good coach. He’s very easy to communicate with. He’s a player’s coach. He’s going to be a good coach."