Interview: 2019 Big Hawaii RB Sitiveni Kaufusi Running Rough over the Competition

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

Featured Photo credit: Raymond Joyce Photography

Twitter: @RJPSports

The era of the big back grounding and pounding out of an I-formation may not be the top offense executed at the high school or collegiate levels, thanks to the spread, but is still an effective offense with the right personnel. Due to guys like Sitiveni Kaufusi, the 6-3, 230 pound, running back that can make you miss and punish you in a violent head-on collision, the big back offense is still alive and well thriving to full potential at Punahou High School.

Watching Kaufusi with the ball in his hands quickly draws a fair comparison to a linebacker, with moves, taking the pigskin down the opposition’s throat. Not surprising, but Kaufusi also doubles as a linebacker. His play on both sides of the ball helped the Buff N’ Blue to a 7-3 record in 2016. The Honolulu area squad has grabbed a national spotlight early in the season racing to a 4-1 mark. Punahou jumped out to a 4-0 start getting key road wins against Torrey Pines (23-7) and a nationally televised thrilling 56-42 win over Serra High School (Gardena) in San Diego. With nagging injuries slowing down the Buff N’ Blue, the squad dropped their first contest of the year to archrival St. Louis on Saturday night (Sept. 16).

With Sitiveni, he has been as good as advertised running rough over opposing squads. The breakout season has caught recruiting attention from Washington, Oregon, Cal, and UCLA with an offer on his desk from Hawaii. The Buff N’ Blue get Kamehameha on Friday with a bye week before getting a second chance to upend St. Louis. Once in the playoffs, it is anyone’s guess how everything will play out.

*Updated season stats for Sitiveni: 30 carries, for 212 yards, 7.1 ypc, three touchdowns

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with the rising Class of 2019 star getting his thoughts on his play on the field with an update on his recruiting interest.

Interview

Sitiveni, how has the 2017 season started off for you?

“To be honest, it started off the way I wanted it to go. My first game (Moanalua), I played with a chip on my shoulder. During my sophomore year I did not show how good I really am. The first game showed what I could do from the running back position. I had 10 carries for 78 yards in a couple of quarters. I did not play in the fourth. The Serra game put a spotlight on the team and myself. I was doubted about being a big running back with speed at 6-3, 230, that can play. I showed out.”

The Buff N’ Blue stormed California getting a two-game sweep of Torrey Pines and Serra. What was it like winning those two games for you and your teammates?

“We were really-really happy, especially after the Serra game. It is hard to explain how happy we were to get those wins. A lot of people were doubting us. We were really happy that we came out with a win on both sides.”

What learning experiences were taken from being on the road for over a week and coming together as a team for two hard-fought victories?

“The team really got together over those two games. After we went to the military base in San Diego, we played like a true brotherhood. We knew we were representing Hawaii and our families. That week we got closer.”

How has your game improved from last year to this year?

“I am faster, my vision is better, and I am more of a north-south runner this year.”

You play on both sides of the ball, which position is your favorite to play?

“I’d like to say running back. I like to deliver the hits against defenders. I love running the ball and being on the offensive side of the ball.”

You get a second regular season shot at St. Louis on Oct. 7, will you prepare differently for them then?

“I watched all the film of the St. Louis game. I got a gist of how their defense is setup. They have a big D-line, great linebackers, and a good secondary. But, I saw where their holes are and how to play against their strengths. I took the time to study their schemes and find where I can help out the team next time.”

The Buff N’ Blue get Kamehameha on Friday, of what you know of them right now, how will you guys attack them on offense and defense?

“I think we have the best O-line in the state. We have a couple of three-year varsity players and some juniors that are big and in shape up front. We will have time for Stephen Barber Jr. to go through his reads or run the ball if he has to. We have great receivers too. With our offense, we can beat teams with our run and our pass. On defense, we have great D-linemen. Our linebackers are great and I think we have the best secondary in the state. I think we can make it to the state championships this year.”

Which schools are showing early recruiting interest in you?

“I’m receiving letters from Washington, Cal, Oregon, and UCLA.”

Have you taken any unofficial visits yet?

“I have visited UCLA (March and September) twice, San Diego State and USD (San Diego).”

I know it is not easy for you guys coming from Hawaii, but do you have any planned visits set for this fall?

“None this season. I am focused on the team and our goals. Afterwards, I will look into recruiting. I’m just focused on getting better and the team winning a state championship.”

Last question. What do you love about playing football?

“I love the brotherhood. I love how it takes a whole team to win a game. I love when I am on the field I can bring out a different side of me. It helps me find more of my identity. Football gives me more insight about myself. That feeling of being there with a family is really great.”

Sitiveni, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of your season.

“Thank you.”

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Featured Photo: No. 4 Sitiveni Kaufusi vs. Serra

Photo credit: Honolulu Star-Advertiser; No. 4 Sitiveni Kaufusi vs Moanalua