Offensive lineman Drew Uperesa of Punahou School has decided to follow in his brother's cleat-steps, accepting a University of Hawa'i football scholarship.

"It's a good situation for me," said Uperesa, who notified the Warrior coaches shortly after completing a 48-hour UH visit yesterday afternoon.

It has not been finalized whether he will join the Warriors for the start of training camp in August or as a grayshirt next January.

Uperesa, who is 6 feet 2 and 245 pounds, is the younger brother of former UH right tackle Dane Uperesa. His father, Kevin, played at California, and an uncle, Keith, played at Brigham Young and now is an assistant coach at Nevada-Las Vegas. The three are Punahou graduates.

"I've been going to UH games for five years," Drew Uperesa said. "I've become quite a fan."

He said he can run 40 yards in under 4.9 seconds.

Last year, he was the Interscholastic League of Honolulu shot put champion. He finished third in the state meet.

He also plays basketball for the Buffanblu.

He said he will play guard or center for the Warriors.

"Athletically, he's as athletic, if not better, than I am," said Dane, who is training in Houston for the coming NFL Scouting Combine.

Drew said: "That's flattering, but I don't know about that."

Kevin said his youngest son has benefitted from "some good coaching" at Punahou and Brian Derby's Offensive Line Camp.

"He's a hard worker," Kevin said. "He's a good kid. I'm very proud of him."

Drew also received an offer from UNLV. "It was a good experience to visit," Drew said.

Kevin said: "That wasn't the place for him to go for four years. He's a local boy. He's wanted to be a Warrior for a while."

Drew praised his UH host, saying offensive lineman Aaron Kia is "a good guy."

Drew said the plan is to gain at least another 20 pounds. "I'm going to work at it," he said.

Dane said: "He can definitely fill out. He has a good work ethic. He's a smart kid. He listens to people. He does what the coaches ask."

Reach Stephen Tsai at stsai@honoluluadvertiser.com.