Interview: Cougars 2017 LB Commit Fa’avae Fa’avae Gives Insight on Washington State Official Visit

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @HogManInLA

Years of hard work in the classroom, on the practice fields, and in the weight room came together in October when Mater Dei High School’s standout linebacker Fa’avae Fa’avae made the decision to follow his dreams of pursuing a business degree while playing collegiate football committing to Washington State.

One of the shining moments for a verbal commit is the opportunity to stroll onto a given campus for an official visit with the fans, future teammates, and the coaching staff knowing you are family. Fa’avae (6-1, 215) got that opportunity over the weekend visiting Pullman for the Apple Cup.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Fa’avae after his official to WSU getting insight on his trip while finding out which players he is trying to sway the Cougars way.

*Click link to read Fa’avae’s Washington State commitment interview

Interview

Fa’avae, the million dollar question, how did the visit to Washington State go?

“It went great. I loved every second of it. They are a tight knit group up there. All the people there are big Cougars fans. They have a great environment there, everyone is welcoming.”

What all did you do during your visit?

“Man, I did a lot. We went to the movies before the game on Thursday. They took me on a tour of the campus on Friday. I hung out with my host after the game on Saturday and we ate a ton, we never went hungry. The food was amazing there. I talked to all the coaches, everyone was really cool.”

Which coaches did you meet with while you were there?

“I met with Coach (Joe) Salave’a (defensive line coach), Coach (Dave) Nichol (receivers coach), Coach (Roy) Manning (outside linebackers) and Coach (Mike) Leach (head coach). I met everyone, Coach (Jamarcus) Sheppard (inside receivers) and Coach (David) Lose (defensive assistant). Everyone was so welcoming. Coach (Alex) Grinch (defensive coordinator) and Coach (Ken) Wilson (linebackers), I met with them too. I watched some film. I fit their system really well. They showed me how I can make a difference with the D (defense).”

How do you fit into their system?

“I fit in at Will and Mike. They said I can fly around and make plays. They have a speed based D. They said I could fit in well. They said my instincts are on point.”

What was your overall impression of the campus and facilities?

“I loved it. I was there for three days but did not want to come back to LA. I really loved it there. Pullman is a lot different than LA, but I really loved it and adjusted to it quickly. Everyone was down to earth and welcoming.”

Who was your host?

“Frankie Luvu (linebacker), No. 51. He’ll be a senior next year. Shout out to my man Frankie.”

What did you do after the game?

“We did a lot of stuff. He showed me around and introduced me to a lot of people. Overall we had a fun time.”

Who went with you?

“My mom and dad went. We stayed at the Marriot. They had their room and I had my own room.”

What did your parents think about Washington State?

“They loved it. They were so excited. The game day atmosphere was great. They are happy for me.”

Do plan to visit the school again, and if so, when?

“Most likely. If they play in the Holiday Bowl (San Diego) I will go to that. I hope to go up again soon.”

Are you recruiting any other players to join you at Washington State?

“I’m recruiting Austin Faoliu (Mater Dei 2017 DL). He is our nose guard. I’m recruiting him and Zelan (Tupuola – 2017 OL), he’s from JSerra (Catholic). I’m trying to get him an offer.”

Are there any schools still reaching out to you trying to keep in touch?

“I’m not talking to many schools right now. I am locked and loaded with Washington State. I’m all in. I had a great trip and I am very excited about my future.”

Fa’avae, thanks for your time today. Congratulations on a successful official visit to Washington State.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Fa’avae family; Fa’avae Fa’avae at Washington State.