HONOLULU – Six members of the University of Hawai'i football team were among a group of 62 players named to the 2019 Watch List for the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award, which was announced by the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame.
 
The award is presented annually to the most outstanding Polynesian college football player who epitomizes great ability and integrity. The 62 players represent 32 different FBS schools. UH has the second most players listed behind USC (7).
 
Linebacker Solomon Matautia has been named to the preseason watch list for the third straight year. Also among the honorees include running back Dayton Furuta, offensive linemen Kohl Levao and Solo Vaipulu, defensive lineman Kaimana Padello, and linebacker Penei Pavihi.
 
In each of the past two years, UH has had a finalist for the award – receiver John Ursua in 2018 and linebacker Jahlani Tavai in 2017. Scott Harding was also a finalist in 2014.
 
The winner of the 2019 Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award will be announced on December 17. Five finalists will be unveiled on December 5. The presentation of the Award will be held during the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Week Celebration Dinner (January 17, 2021) at the Sheraton Waikiki and they will also be recognized at halftime of the Polynesian Bowl (January 18, 2021) at Aloha Stadium.
 
Former University of Oregon, and current Tennessee Titans Quarterback, Marcus Mariota was selected as the inaugural recipient of the Award in 2014; former University of Notre Dame, and current Baltimore Ravens Offensive Lineman, Ronnie Stanley received the award in 2015; former University of Colorado Quarterback Sefo Liufau received the award in 2016; former Washington State, current Minnesota Vikings Defensive End Hercules Mata`afa received the award in 2017; and University of Alabama Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa received the award last year.