Bigger Faavi tackles new duty with desire
By Stephen Tsai
Advertiser Staff Writer
When it comes to the fast track to a prominent role on the University of Hawai'i football team, center Derek Faavi avoids the Subway.
Although defensive line coach Vantz Singletary is a pitchman for Subway Sandwiches' low-calorie plan, Faavi, who will be a third-year sophomore in the fall, is beefing up by "lifting weights and eating whatever, maybe a little junk food."
Faavi, a 2001 Campbell High graduate, weighed 260 pounds at the end of last season, when he was playing in place of injured Lui Fuata. Now Faavi is 275 pounds, and he has strengthened his role as leader by assuming the job of calling out blocking schemes.
When asked about Faavi's new look, right guard Uriah Moenoa said, "I don't know if I would kill for that body. I don't know if I would even buy it. But he works good with that body. If you can work good with that body, you're a good center."
When Faavi moved into the starting lineup late last season, he received help from his more experienced linemates. This spring practice, line coach Mike Cavanaugh gave Faavi the responsibility of identifying the defensive schemes.
"I'm trying to make the calls by myself," Faavi said. "If I'm wrong, coach Cav is always there to correct me."
But Moenoa said Faavi has needed little assistance.
"He's the man," Moenoa said. "Look at that swagger. He's vicious. Vocal-wise and example-wise, he's stepped up. He's doing a good job. There's a big change from his first year here. He's more vocal. Before, he didn't say anything, didn't look at anybody, just went on his way. Now he's becoming a leader. People are noticing. The girls are lining up for him. They're always saying, 'Where's No. 59?' I thought they were asking for me, but they're looking for the short guy."
As a bonus, Faavi has been awarded a football scholarship.
"It was a relief for my parents," Faavi said. "They don't have to pay for anything anymore."
Samson's strength: Samson Satele, who will be a second-year freshman in the fall, is expected to emerge from spring practice next week as the No. 1 left tackle. With Dane Uperesa expected to finish atop the depth chart at right tackle, the Warriors could open the 2003 season with two second-year freshmen starting on the offensive line.
Jones said class standing matters little. "True freshmen, who will contribute right away, are hard to find, but I expect redshirt freshmen to be ready to play," Jones said. "I still believe that if a true freshman comes in and he's the best guy, he'll play."
The UH coaches have praised Satele's footwork and strength. "Coach Cav says I'm getting better, but, to me, I have a lot of things to work on," Satele said.
Satele is the nephew of former UH linebacker Alvis Satele. His cousin, defensive end Mel Purcell, attended practice yesterday and will join the team in the fall.
"I'm very happy for the chance to play with the No. 1 unit," Satele said. "I have more confidence out there. I get to work with the veterans. They know what they're calling, and I'm just feeding off of them."
End is mean: Ikaika Alama-Francis, who was a member of the past UH basketball team, has become an aggressive pass-rusher.
Alama-Francis, who is auditioning as a defensive end, yesterday sprinted past a stunned lineman to knock down Jason Whieldon's pass.
"I'm learning a little bit every day," said Alama-Francis, whose previous football experience was in Pop Warner.
Alama-Francis, who was an All-State player in basketball and volleyball at Kalaheo High, said he is "fully committed" to football. As to whether he will pursue another pastime, he said, "I'm going to enjoy this for now, work hard and see what happens after the season."
