A few weeks ago, CLA readers got their first look at Gardena Serra colossal offensive lineman Emerald Faletuipapai and his plans to dominate the competition for the Cavaliers this upcoming season.
The next step in Faletuipapai’s preparation will take place at the Los Angeles Nike Football Training Camp at Cerritos College on Sunday.
The camp will host several college level athletes from all over California and the West Coast in a fierce competition to see if they can measure up against the best competitors at their respective positions and advance their recruitment status in the process.
Kudos to Nike for providing a wonderful opportunity for aspiring college level athletes to showcase their abilities against quality opposition.
In addition to Faletuipapai, there will be a number of big time prospects including Concord De La Salle linebacker Michael Hutchings, Upland defensive end Joe Mathis, Mission Viejo safety Max Redfield and Rancho Cucamonga safety Tahaan Goodman.
CLA was fortunate to catch up with Emerald to get an idea of what he hopes to accomplish at the Nike Camp.
“I have been really working hard in the weight room and on the field trying hard to get prepared for this Nike Camp. At this Nike Camp, I’ll be looking forward to learning better techniques to better myself when the season begins in April. I’m excited and as always, I’ll be ready to compete,” said Faletuipapai.
There is no doubt that Emerald possesses a strong work ethic and the will to be great. Faletuipapai will be the first to credit his parents for his success.
“I really look up to my dad. He’s a hard worker and he’s sacrificed so much for my family and myself. I hope to carry on as a hard worker and to not be lazy, but to always do my best with my craft.
“Actually, both my parents have done so much for me, always keeping up with everything I do and making sure I’m always doing well physically, mentally and spiritually. My mind is set for big things in the future and just trying to be there for my parents and my family.
Adding to the strong family bond is the firm place spirituality holds in Emerald’s upbringing.
“God definitely plays a big role in my life for he has blessed me in many ways in school, and being able to show my talents on the field. I’m going to keep being humble and staying hungry for more,” said Faletuipapai.
As it pertains to the recruitment process, Emerald continues to garner interest from numerous programs including Washington State and UCLA.
“Coach Simmons has been telling me all about WSU and it has been exciting to hear about. I have also recently been contacted by Nevada and Oregon State.
“The UCLA visit was great. The coaching staff was amazing and just meeting them was a great experience. I had a lot of fun and just feeling comfortable with the UCLA environment. Meeting head coach Mora and offensive line coach Adrian Klemm was exciting and to just get their views on UCLA and their first year coaching at UCLA. “
“Also, just hearing about the UCLA, recruiting system, Klemm told me they only have five spots for offensive lineman this year and it makes me want to just work even harder in class and on the field,” said Faletuipapai.
CLA looks forward to covering Emerald’s progress at the Nike Camp as he improves his craft and prepares to lead Gardena Serra to a historic 2012 campaign.
