Linebacker Tinoisamoa finds school to his liking

By Stephen Tsai
Advertiser Staff Writer

The getaway was in place.

University of Hawai'i linebacker Pisa Tinoisamoa needs to earn a bachelor's degree by next August to earn another year of eligibility to play for the Warriors. Cory Lum • The Honolulu Advertiser

But Tinoisamoa, whose REM is filled with visions of a pro career, has tweaked the plan.

"I'm really enjoying school now," said Tinoisamoa, who turned 21 last month. "Maybe it's because I'm getting older, but I'm looking at all of my options. I think there's more to life than football."

Because Tinoisamoa entered UH as a partial-qualifier in August 1999, sitting out that first season in accordance with NCAA eligibility rules, he must earn a bachelor's degree within four years to receive a fifth year — and fourth season — of eligibility. If Tinoisamoa meets the deadline by next August, he will be eligible to play for the Warriors in 2003.

"That's a strong option," Tinoisamoa said.

Tinoisamoa said he will take 15 credit hours this semester and 18 during the spring semester. He already has been invited to compete in the East West Shrine Game in January, but would forgo that invitation if he believes he will not be a highly regarded draft prospect. Even if he appeared on mock draft lists, he still would consider remaining at UH.

"I want to get my degree," he said. "It would be a nice thing to fall back on if football doesn't work out."

But coaches and teammates insist Tinoisamoa is poised for a breakout season. He is showing no effects from the shin injury he suffered last season. He lost nearly 25 pounds during the offseason, and reported to training camp weighing 210. "I'm up to 220 now, but it's a good 220," he said. "I feel strong and fast. I think I'm in the best condition I've ever been in."

Said UH middle linebacker Chris Brown: "Pisa was good last year, but he will be great this year. He's in great shape. Every time I see him, I get motivated to work hard, too."

Tinoisamoa was one of only nine players to earn the distinction as a "Superior Warrior" after scoring high in 11 strength and agility drills. He was among the 25 percent of Warriors to run 10 sets of 220-yard sprints within a specified time. He can run 40 yards in 4.5 seconds, and bench press 225 pounds 19 times.

The thing was, while working to improve his physical shape, Tinoisamoa began to think about other matters. Although he is majoring in sociology, his interests are in history. "I love reading and studying about history," he said. "I'd like to work in that field."

For now, his future appears to be just as intriguing.