Posted on: Wednesday, July 25, 2001

College Football
UH back's career over

By Stephen Tsai
Advertiser Staff Writer

The NCAA is expected to turn down University of Hawai'i running back Afatia Thompson's request to play this season, ending the collegiate football career of one of the Warriors' most popular players.

Because Thompson entered UH in 1997 under special circumstances, he was limited, under NCAA rules, to three seasons of eligibility. He completed his third season last December.

UH officials appealed, arguing that Thompson should be granted a fourth season because of his extraordinary situation.

Thompson, a good student who will earn a bachelor's degree this year, struggled academically during his senior year at Punahou School following the accidental death of his older brother.

But people familiar with the situation said the NCAA will not grant an exemption.

Injuries limited the 5-foot-10, 212-pound Thompson to seven games last year. In 1999, he started 10 games, rushing for 435 yards.

Thompson, who is married, also is a professional entertainer. He is a member of a musical group, as well as a fire-knife dancer for his family's production company. Two years ago, he finished second in the world fire-knife competition.

UH had anticipated losing Thompson, allowing him to participate in last year's "senior walk" for players completing their college eligibility. Thompson did not compete in spring practice.

UH signed three running backs in February, and six others return.

"We've got one running back spot and nine players, so we're in good shape," said UH coach June Jones.

Thero Mitchell, who carried 11 times but scored two touchdowns last year, Tui Ala and Chad Kapanui were the most productive running backs in spring practice.

Also, linebacker Pisa Tinoisamoa has resolved his academic problems and will play this season. Several publications have named Tinoisamoa to their preseason Western Athletic Conference all-star team.