Count Haku Correa among those especially thankful for football’s return to the University of Hawaii campus this week.

While anticipation for head coach Norm Chow’s on-field debut swelled in the weeks following his December hiring, Correa had awaited the opening of spring practice since mid-September, when a broken ankle wiped out most of his 2011 season.

"Getting back on the football field is just a great opportunity for me," the senior defensive tackle said. "Since I was hurt last year, it’s been way too long since I touched the field. So it’s an awesome feeling getting back."

Correa was a productive member of UH’s rotation at defensive tackle his first two seasons and made two starts in 2010. He was expected to be a significant factor again last year before suffering the ankle injury on his third play in UH’s loss at UNLV on Sept. 17.

After two pins were surgically inserted into his ankle, he worked daily with UH trainers Eric Okasaki and Brian Wong to rebuild his strength. He progressed to full-speed running late in the season, but pain accompanied any sharp cuts. So while there was some hope he could return before the end of UH’s 6-7 campaign, he ultimately opted for patience.

"There were a couple times I tried to push myself because they told me there was a chance I could come back for the last couple games … but it wasn’t happening," Correa said. "Just let it heal and come back strong for this year.

"You have to make sure you stay stout in there and take on 600 pounds sometimes," he said of handling the weight of double teams, "so I had to wait."

Now that his ankle has mended, learning to trust it again represents one of his spring priorities.

"My ankle’s fine, it’s all mental right now, but I’m going to push through it and do what I have to do," he said.

Whether Correa might be granted a medical hardship and another year of eligibility will be determined down the line. For now, Correa is stepping into a leadership position on the defensive line while also adjusting to the new schemes being implemented.

After Wednesday’s practice, the second of UH’s 15 spring sessions, Correa said defensive coordinator Thom Kaumeyer’s system gives the tackles more freedom to attack from the middle of the line.

"Last year it was read the play," he said, "now it’s get upfield and make a play."

Correa and Geordon Hanohano are now among the veterans in a group of tackles that was led by Vaughn Meatoga and Kaniela Tuipulotu the past two years. While last year’s seniors completed their college careers last December, the examples they set continue to provide guidance for the current group.

"I’m just trying to remember what they did and push through," Correa said. "The coaches said I have to be more vocal and stand up and be a leader out there and that’s what I’m trying to do.

"I’m going to do whatever I need to do to make sure I make plays, do the right thing, know my assignments and help out my boys on the field."

One role Correa isn’t tackling with aggression is that of recruiter. His younger brother, Kamalei, is approaching his senior year at Saint Louis School after earning third-team All-State honors last fall. Having gone through the pressures of recruiting not that long ago, Haku said he’s giving his brother space to consider his college options.

"I’m letting him do his thing," Correa said. "It’s up to him where he feels comfortable. I’d love for him to come over here, but it’s up to him."