Jordan Hamm
The Saguaro defensive line is one of the most talented groups groups returning to the Arizona Friday night lights this year.
Each member of that group returning has been heavily recruited and made things very, very difficult for opposing offenses over the years.
On Friday, defensive tackle Alani Ma’afu made his commitment to NAU.
https://twitter.com/AlanMaafu/status/1302051154721820672
“For him, I think it was the relationship he’s built with (NAU defensive coach Everrette Thompson) that’s really probably been recruiting him harder than anyone else, showing him love and making him feel like he’s a part of their future and a part of the family,” Saguaro head coach Jason Mohns said.
“I think the Polynesian culture that he’s been a part of, that kind of loyalty and family atmosphere is what he was really looking for. For him to play close to home and play for someone he’s excited about playing for, he was willing to turn down bigger opportunities to do that.”
Last year, the defensive lineman tallied 53 total tackles, 23 tackles for loss and three sacks. In addition to the Lumberjacks, he holds offers from Memphis, Washington State, New Mexico, Montana State, Liberty, San Diego State, Tulane, Iowa State and Hawaii.
Despite the Lumberjacks putting their season on hold until the spring, Mohns believes Ma’afu’s commitment is one of many recruiting wins the NAU coaching staff can have in this class and beyond.
“I think it says a lot about what (NAU head coach Chris Ball) is doing at NAU right now,” Mohns said. “You’re getting guys that are turning down opportunities to play Power 5 football to come play for Northern Arizona because it’s home and it’s a good opportunity.”
The defensive lineman has added about 20 pounds to his frame and sits in the 280 pound range. Mohns has said Ma’afu has the quickness and feet of a skill position player but the size of an interior lineman.
The Lumberjack commit also plays travel rugby in the offseason.
