Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Article 124: 'Puka' to make college impact

January 15, 2011

Justin Satele of the Valley Christian Warriors was a big kid when he was growing up. As a result, he was often called "Puka" in his native Polynesian language, which means big and chubby. As the No. 34 ranked prospect in the NCP 2011 football rankings, Satele will be making a big impact in college next year.

For Valley Christian, the 2010 season ended at 11-2 with a playoff loss to Palo Alto 21-14. The team averaged 251 yards rushing per game and 39 points per game. The Warriors employ an option, wing T offensive scheme. As the center, Satele has to be quick off the ball as he has to protect the ball and hold his ground moving laterally or up the field.

At 6-foot-1 and 270 pounds, Satele can run 5.30 seconds in the 40-yard dash, can bench press 185 pounds in 25 reps, and can bench press 330 pounds as a maximum. Satele's season has earned him 1st Team All League WCAL, 1st Team All League CCS, Valley Christian Lineman MVP 2010, and nomination for All State offensive lineman. He will be playing in the All America Polynesian Bowl Game in Los Angeles on January 15, 2011 as it features 50 Highly Touted US and South Pacific high school Poly Student-Athletes in this inaugural bowl game.

Satele has been playing football for six years now and has been a varsity starter for three years. He has attended the Boise State camp during summer. He considers his best skill to be run and pass blocking. During the offseason, he has worked on his power, speed, and technique.

Colleges have been interested in this future lineman. Boise State, Northern Colorado, Oregon, Oregon State, San Jose State, Sacramento State, and Texas Christian University have been in contact with him. Northern Colorado, Sacramento State, and San Jose State have tendered offers while Boise State is very close.

Satele is looking for a good program with the opportunity to play early. He would like to be close to home, specifically California or west coast as he was born and raised in San Jose. His best subject is Math as he would like to major in Business. Satele says about the college decision process, "Deciding on a college is a lot harder than I thought it would be. I am hoping to make a decision by signing day but will not rush the process and want to weigh all my options before I decide even if it passes the signing day."

Valley Christian Coach Mike Machado says, "Justin's strengths are his power, get off, and athleticism. On the field, he is a leader, hard worker, and has a powerful presence. Off the field, he is a leader as well, great personality, and very popular with peers and staff alike. Justin can certainly play at the DI level and excel. He is a great asset to a team as a player and leader."

Satele considers his style of play to be closest to Samson Satele, who is a first cousin. Samson Satele is also a center who played at the University of Hawaii and is currently with the Oakland Raiders. He is also a cousin of linebacker Brashton Satele, who played at the University of Hawaii and is currently with the New York Jets.

Look for Puka to make a big impact on the college scene next year. And then possibly like his cousins, look for Puka to make a big impact on Sundays in the near future.

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