Kalani Brackenridge's patience paid off.

The Kapolei senior gave his oral commitment to play football at Hawaii. The 6-foot, 175-pound cornerback will also suit up for the baseball team. Brackenridge is one of the state's top high school shortstops.

It all came together rather quickly for Brackenridge, who had football scholarship offers from Washington State and Idaho. However, Washington State asked him to play football only, while other interested schools do not field baseball teams.

“;I was surprised, actually. (UH) came to my school and watched us practice before, but I never heard from them until I got a phone call a couple weeks ago from (defensive backs coach) Rich Miano,”; Brackenridge said. “;He was just saying he likes the way I play.”;

Brackenridge visited the Manoa campus over the weekend and got the two-sport offer—something not very common for UH athletes as freshmen.

He played in Les Murakami Stadium recently in the Perfect Games Tournament.

“;There's no dirt (in the infield). I like that field, all natural hops, no bad hops,”; Brackenridge said. “;The ball gets on you quicker. But it doesn't matter what kind of field it is.”;

Brackenridge is awaiting results of his recent SAT. He has a 2.5 grade-point average, but expects to meet UH's academic requirements.

His senior football season was successful before a thumb injury cut it short.

“;I was frustrated when I got hurt. I wanted to play with my cast (on), but my doctor wouldn't allow it because of the surgery,”; he said.

Rather than committing early to other schools—New Mexico, Utah State and Wyoming were also interested—Brackenridge's patience is being rewarded.

“;I just want a shot to play and compete at my position,”; he said of next football season.

Brackenridge joins Kapolei teammates Chad Lopati (Hawaii), Cyril Ontai (Navy) and Simione Vehikite (USC) as football commits.

They will sign their letters of intent tomorrow.