BREAKING | Notre Dame Lands 2019 Hawaii LB Marist Liufau
It was just about 10 years ago Notre Dame made waves by landing Punahou (Hawaii) Manti Te’o and Robby Toma in the 2009 recruiting class.
In 2010, Kahuku (Hawaii) defensive end Kona Schwenke signed with the Irish, and then in 2017, Hawaii native Alohi Gilman transferred to Notre Dame from Navy and Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa signed to play in the blue and gold.
On Thursday, Notre Dame received a commitment from 2019 Punahou linebacker Marist Liufau after taking an official visit over the weekend.
The 6-foot-2, 210-pounder immediately boosts the Irish linebacker corps with speed and athleticism.
“When I first coached receivers, Marist was playing a rover/safety role as a junior,” Toma told Irish Sports Daily, who now coaches at Punahou. “He was all over the field. That’s when I got close with him, and I worked out with him a little bit in the offseason.
“Right now, he’s weighing in around 205-210. The weight program at Notre Dame is only going to benefit him not only strength wise, but speed wise. He’s fast, and I believe he ran track last year. The kid can just fly. He doesn’t lose speed on impact. He enjoys the physical part of the game, and that’s something I think Alohi has brought to Notre Dame. Marist will be able to do the same as he’ll be another enforcer for the defense.”
On film, Liufau is a relentless pass rusher, and Toma believes the success comes from the passion of the game and God-given traits.
“He’s really long,” stated Toma. “Tackles can typically get their hands on edge rushers, but Marist can manipulate the blockers by his strength and how long his arms are. His work ethic is just unmatched.”
The three-star prospect chose the Irish over Arizona, Boise State, Hawaii, Oregon, San Diego State, UNLV, USC, Utah, Utah State and Washington State.
As for Toma, he wasn’t taking any credit for the Irish landing Liufau, but he was thrilled to see Notre Dame get back into Hawaii.
“It’s an amazing feeling to know Manti, Kona and I were able to inspire kids back home in Hawaii,” said Toma. “They don’t have to go to California schools or schools close to home. You can find your home at Notre Dame.
“Irish nation loves their Hawaii boys. I’m grateful for that connection and to see it continue is a great feeling.”
Liufau will join fellow 2019 linebacker commits Ositadinma Ekwonu and Jack Kiser.
Film Don’t Lie | Marist Liufau
Coach: "We're Going To Miss" New Notre Dame Commit Marist Liufau