COMMITMENT! Hawaii defensive lineman Aaron Faumui picks Virginia

After a dramatic stretch in the early afternoon Wednesday saw four-star defensive back Noah Boykin pick Notre Dame over the Virginia Cavaliers at the last possible moment, the Hoos got on the board with a commitment from defensive tackle Aaron Faumui of Hawaii.

Faumui is a three-star according to 247Sports, and a two-star by Rivals. In addition to Hawaii and UVA, he held offers from Wisconsin and Fresno State. He is the #5 player on the islands in the class of 2018.

Virginia early signee Samson Reed played a big role in recruiting his fellow defensive lineman to pick the Hoos. Faumui also recognized the Virginia coaching staff as “the number one reason” he chose Charlottesville. At 6’3, 285 pounds, Faumui fits the stout role of the defensive linemen in the previous Mendenhall recruiting class, like Mandy Alonso who made four starts as a freshman.

Defensive line coach Vic So’oto welcomed his new charge with trademark enthusiasm:

Faumui’s commitment gives UVA three of the top 10 players in Hawaii, according to the 247 Composite. Running back Wayne Taulapapa will be another Hawaiian addition to the roster when he joins the team this summer, following his two-year mission to Nicaragua.