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Saturday, January 6, 2001

Iolani’s Kava
picks Huskies

Lineman commits to
Rose Bowl champions

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By Dave Reardon
Star-Bulletin

Iolani offensive lineman Willie Kava has verbally committed yesterday to accept a football scholarship at the University of Washington.

Kava, a 6-foot-3, 280-pound guard, had narrowed his choices to California, Utah, San Diego, Hawaii and Washington.

"I felt really comfortable over there," said Kava, who officially visited only Washington and Cal. "I'd seen Utah over the summer when I went to a camp there, and of course I already knew a little bit about UH.

"When I went up there I was surprised to see a lot of Hawaii people in general. I think that will help with my transition to college."

Kava said he was told by Washington coaches he would not be asked to redshirt his first year. He was told he would play guard or center for the Huskies.

"I guess that means I'll jump right in there and try to compete for a starting job," he said.

Kava was a first-team Interscholastic League of Honolulu all-star, and a second-team Star-Bulletin all-state selection this past season.

He made his decision before Washington's 34-24 Rose Bowl victory over Purdue on Monday.

Kava is the second top-notch local offensive line prospect to commit this season. On Dec. 19, Kamehameha's Donovan Raiola committed to Wisconsin.

Three local recruits have committed to Hawaii.

They are St. Louis running back Pesefea Fiaseu and Kaimuki receiver/linebackers Justin Faimealelei and Kila Kamakawiwo'ole.

Also, junior-college transfer Mike Holt, an offensive lineman, and Nate Ilaoa, a wide receiver.

High school seniors may not sign letters of intent officially binding them to colleges until next month.