Making safety a priority, the Hawai'i football team yesterday received a commitment from one of the state's top defensive backs.

"UH is the best place for me," said Marcus Umu, a safety from Saint Louis School.

Umu said he is 6 feet 1 and 192 pounds. He was told he will compete at both safety positions at UH.

Umu said he received interest from Washington, Baylor and Portland State.

He said he made his decision after consulting with family members.

"It's going to be good to stay home and play in front of my family," Umu said.

Umu was named to The Advertiser's 2008 All-State second team.

He also played for the Crusaders' basketball team, and competed in track in the 200-meter race, high jump and long jump.

He said he likely will skip track this season to train for football.

Umu's cousin is UH defensive tackle Kamalu Umu, who transferred from Charleston Southern the past summer.

"He made an impact on my decision," Marcus Umu said. "He was my example growing up."

Umu will enroll in UH's summer session.