*Based on a UW Press Release
LARAMIE, Wyo. (Aug. 15, 2024) – The Polynesian Football Hall of Fame has announced its 2024 Watch List for the prestigious Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award, and Wyoming linebacker Shae Suiaunoa has earned a spot among the candidates for the second consecutive season.
Suiaunoa had an impressive 2023 season, appearing in and starting all 13 games. His performance earned him third-team All-MW honors from Phil Steele. Suiaunoa ranked second on the team with 93 total tackles and contributed 5.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, and an interception. He was a force on the field, ranking tenth in the Mountain West with an average of 7.2 tackles per game.
One of Suiaunoa’s most memorable performances came in Wyoming's win over Texas Tech, where he recorded a career-high 12 tackles. He also made a significant impact against other top-ranked opponents, notching 13 tackles against Fresno State and 11 against Boise State. His defensive prowess helped lead the Cowboys throughout the season, including a key interception in the rivalry game against Colorado State and a season-high 1.5 tackles for loss in the victory over Portland State.
"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 future potential, with additions to the list made throughout the 2024 season. Five finalists will be announced on December 3, and the winner will be revealed 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 honored at the Polynesian Bowl on January 17, 2025.
He joins teammate Nofoafia Tulafono on the watch list.
*Based on a UW Press Release
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