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STAR-ADVERTISER / NOV. 30, 2015
The University of Hawaii football team has secured a commitment from a versatile athlete from Australia.
Max Hendrie, who is experienced in rugby and football, is expected to sign a letter of intent with the Warriors on Feb. 3, the first day of the NCAA signing period.
Paul Manera, who serves as Hendrie’s tutor/adviser, said Hendrie is 6 feet 4, 245 pounds and capable of running 40 yards in 4.53 seconds.
Manera said Hendrie probably can compete at linebacker, tight end, running back or offensive lineman, as well as contribute on special teams.
Hendrie graduated from The Scots College, a Sydney high school, in December 2014. He has been training during the “gap year,” the period between high school and college in Australia. He is expected to enroll at UH in June.
“He might grow an inch taller, but if he doesn’t, he’s already tall enough,” Manera said. “He’s already fast enough. I’ve watched him play rugby, where he’s carrying the ball. He broke tackles. He side-stepped people. He stiff-armed people. He tackled people. He ran over people. … He’s quite versatile.”
Manera added: “Hawaii is going to get a mature kid. Hawaii is going to get a kid who will work very hard and be very grateful for the opportunity.”
Manera, who was raised in Australia, is a former UH offensive lineman.
Great news!
Not to compare athletes but just reminds me of the late great soccer legend Jonah Lomu who had imposing size and strength coupled with speed unheard of for someone of his stature.
sorry…what was I thinking – rugby not soccer.
I must say! Yep, he totally changed the game. I remember watching him in the late 90’s. What a powerhouse. He left this pitch of tears at way to early an age.
I like the article–WAS graduated–so correct, not used very often.
Oh man the grammar police are out today. Did you realize he graduated from the story? If so, be quiet.
Hmmm…seeing is believing being this is a Tsai article. ST tends to overhype everyone he writes about.
LOL !
Read it again. It’s Manera who is hyping the kid, not Tsai.
Can’t get enough good athletes. Just have to find his position.
Cant beat the size and ability!
UH need to do a complete background check to make sure he’s eligible.
really, agree with you.
Versatile sports player? Plays football, baseball, volleyball, soccer. That’s one way to save money.
I’m dreaming, like at TE?? with his 40-time, slot or WR as well? and UH can use an RB who can run over people. Damn-good-get, I say!!
I was thinking TE too, but he could have Roberto Durand syndrome, you know hands of stone.
Similar size to Cam Newton. QB would be great if he can throw.
Good to get recruits from all parts of the world. This guy has good size for football.
Too bad Hawaii’s best choose to go elsewhere.
They probably want something silly like a degree from a respected academic school, just in case the athletic thing doesn’t work out….
Whatcha going to do?
Thanks to Paul Manera, awesome pipeline from Australia.