Hawaii’s Satele
receives honorThe UH left guard is named to
a freshman All-America team
Looked at one play at a time, Samson Satele's first college season wasn't that spectacular. But as a body of work, Hawaii's left guard put together a masterpiece in his first season. He allowed zero sacks, earning him a spot on a freshman All-America team.
Satele was named to the Scripps/Football Writers Association of America Freshman All-America Team yesterday. A committee of 11 sportswriters representing each of the NCAA's Division I-A football conferences selected the 27-member team.
"It turned out better than what I expected," Satele said. "It seemed like it would be hard stepping in, but I got a good feeling as things went along. Not to be big-headed, but my confidence built a little bit on itself every game."
The 6-foot-3, 290-pound Satele is a Kailua High School graduate from Kaneohe. He started all 14 games for the Warriors and was first-team All-Western Athletic Conference. According to UH statistics, Satele did not allow a sack during the regular season.
Satele, a second-year freshman, was nominated by Marek Warszawski of the Fresno Bee.
"Look how many times Hawaii throws the ball and no sacks. Unbelievable. And he was dominating people in the bowl game," Warszawski said. "He looks like he continues in Hawaii's tradition of mobile, aggressive linemen. He reminded me of Vince Manuwai."
UH's Chad Owens was named to the FWAA Freshman All-America team after the 2001 season as a kick returner.
Hawaii offensive line coach Mike Cavanaugh expects Satele to be a leader for years to come.
"He had a great year, probably our most dominant offensive lineman," Cavanaugh said. "This winter is important for him, how hard he works in the weight room. He has the upside and potential to be as good as we've had. I expect him to have a great offseason, take control and be a leader. The ball's in his court."
Satele said he hopes he's up to the challenge.
"My goals are to get stronger and quicker," he said. "I still have some body fat to lose."
Although UH's offensive line returns all five starters, Cavanaugh expects some good competition in spring camp.
"It's going to be interesting," Cavanaugh said. "Michael Lafaele will push Derek Faavi at center. Brandon Eaton and Jeremy Inferrera will battle at right tackle. Hercules Satele has a chance to be real good. Larry Sauafea's another guy. We have a lot more depth, so guys better work."
