"I love it here, and my family loves it here," Cavanaugh said. "I guess we were moved by the aloha spirit."

UH coach June Jones said: "I'm happy he's staying. He's done a great job for us."

In Cavanaugh's six years at UH, five Warrior offensive linemen were selected in the National Football League draft. Another five signed free-agent contracts.

Last week, Dick Tomey, the newly hired San Jose State head coach, asked UH for permission to interview Cavanaugh. Jones granted the request, and Cavanaugh met with Tomey in San Jose on Thursday.

Soon after, Cavanaugh was offered the dual role of assistant head football coach and offensive line coach. He also was offered a contract that was more lucrative than his current deal with UH.

Cavanaugh said he was impressed with San Jose State's facilities, particularly the state-of-the-art weight room, and Tomey's commitment to recruiting heavily in California.

"I thought (San Jose) was a nice area, too," Cavanaugh said. He returned to Honolulu last night, and told reporters this morning of his decision to remain at UH.

"We love it here," Cavanaugh said. "We've made great friends and met wonderful people. I've got a great job, too."

Cavanaugh's eldest son, Shane, is a junior at Saint Louis School. "It wouldn't be fair to move him," Cavanaugh said.

Cavanaugh also said he did not want to abandon his players and recruits.

Cavanaugh secured three verbal commitments from recruits this year.

"He definitely was the reason I wanted to go to Hawai'i," said Daniel Johnson, an offensive lineman from Skyline High in Washington state. "To hear he's staying means a lot to me. It shows his character and commitment to the team."

Brandon Eaton, UH's starting right tackle, said he was relieved to hear of Cavanaugh's decision. Eaton said he heard rumors of San Jose State's interest last week.