Horns look toward Hawaii

In the ongoing search for offensive linemen, Texas reached all the way to Hawaii and offered Michael Eletise from Honolulu’s Kaiser high school. The offensive guard shared insight on his recruitment and what it’s like to grow up in Hawaii.

Texas defensive backs coach Chris Vaughn contacted Eletise and extended an offer earlier this week. “I’m really thankful,” Eletise said when asked how he felt about the offer. He continued, “The University of Texas has huge tradition and amazing fans. I am learning a lot by the hour about the program.”

While he was pleased with the offer, it may have thrown a wrench in his plans. While the Longhorns were a bit late to the party in offering, Eletise says that the Longhorns are not out of the race, “I’m in the process of picking my top ten. I’m really considering all my options, including Texas. I will be talking to Coach Strong in the next day or two and that will help me get a better feel.”

Hawaii is not traditionally a hotbed for high school recruiting, but the state has produced some super stars in recent years including Marcus Mariota and Manti Te’o. Eletise could be next in line to carry on the tradition, but he told us he’s not focusing too much on such prospects, “I can’t speak for all of Hawaii, I’m just a kid. I love my Island and am incredibly blessed to be a part of this community. This is an amazing place that supports their own”.

Eletise grew up a fan of USC, but the Trojans have yet to extend a scholarship offer. The Kaiser star is moving forward with his recruitment by cutting down his list of schools and said he hopes to have it completed on Sunday.

If the Longhorns make the cut following Eletise’s contact with Charlie Strong, things should get interesting. As always, HornSports will bring you continuing coverage of the Longhorns’ pursuit of the big offensive lineman from Hawaii.