Mel deLaura’s tenure with the University of Hawai‘i football program started with his relationship with former head coach June Jones more than 20 years ago. Currently, deLaura is the team’s strength and conditioning coach, a position he has occupied since 1999.
A former wide receiver, deLaura implements training techniques he has learned throughout the years. One particular technique he employs is plyometrics, which are aerobic exercises that improve jumping and quickness.
For the last six summers, deLaura also helped develop young Hawai‘i athletes alongside UH associate coach Rich Miano at the Speed and Quickness Camp.
DeLaura and Jones met while attending UH before both transferred to Portland State, where they formed a lethal combination. Upon completion of his eligibility, deLaura received free-agent contracts with the Atlanta Falcons and Washington Redskins. But a leg injury prior to training camp in Atlanta ended his career before it began.
The Damien Memorial School graduate returned to Hawai‘i in 1999 at the endorsement of Jones. Previously, he coached at a high school and worked as a personal trainer for professional athletes in Oregon.
DeLaura earned his bachelor’s degree in sports and recreation administration from Hawai‘i Pacific University. He and his wife, Rene, have three children, Isaiah, Noah and Makaela.
