Based on a UW Press Release
LARAMIE, Wyo. (Aug. 15, 2024) – The Polynesian Football Hall of Fame has released its 2024 Watch List for the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award, and Wyoming Cowboys center Nofoafia Tulafono has earned a spot for the second consecutive year.
Tulafono started all 13 games for the Cowboys last season, anchoring a powerful offensive line. His efforts helped pave the way for running back Harrison Waylee to eclipse 100 rushing yards in four different games, highlighted by a 191-yard performance against New Mexico. Tulafono's contributions in pass protection also allowed quarterback Andrew Peasley to throw for at least 140 yards in nine games, with a season-high of 319 yards against Hawaii.
Wyoming’s offensive line, with Tulafono at the center, ranked in the top-15 nationally in fourth-down conversion percentage, converting 66.7% of the time. Their dominance earned the Cowboys a spot on the Joe Moore Award Midseason Watch List, recognizing the best offensive line in the nation.
"The Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award has become one of the most prestigious awards in all of college football," said Jesse Sapolu, Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Chairman, Co-Founder, and Inductee. "This award means so much to our people as it showcases the tremendous impact that our Polynesian student-athletes are having on the game of football and gives us an opportunity to share our culture with the world."
The Watch List candidates were selected based on their past performance and potential for future success. The Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Selection Committee, which includes notable figures like former NFL quarterback Jack "The Throwin' Samoan" Thompson and legendary coach Dick Vermeil, will narrow the field throughout the season. Five finalists will be named on December 3, with the winner announced on December 17.
The award will be presented during the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Week Celebration Dinner on January 18, 2025, at the Sheraton Waikiki, with the winner also being recognized during the Polynesian Bowl on January 17, 2025.
He joins teammate Shae Suiaunoa on the watch list.
*Based on a UW Press Release
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