Interview: Hawaii 2019 OL/DL Inoke Vimahi has Sights Set on Next Level

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @HogManInLA

The task of being seen by next level coaches is daunting for high school football players coming out of Hawaii, but in this day and age college recruiters worth their paychecks are heading to the Aloha State scouting for top tier talent to fill their rosters. The trip over to paradise has not been a disappointment in scenery, on and off the field.

An up and coming talent already gaining interest from Division-I coaches is Inoke Vimahi.

Vimahi spent all of the 2015 season on the junior varsity squad but was called up for the playoffs. Little did the 6’4”, 265, lineman know, but he would play a big role in Kahuku’s 39-14 state title win. In the championship game against St. Louis High School, the freshman left tackle ended up playing a few series due to injury, but showed glimpses of what the future may hold during his snaps on the field against much older upperclassmen.

The future is wide-open for Vimahi. He could continue to play left tackle, the spot he played throughout his freshman year, or play tight end, defensive end, or defensive tackle. How his body matures will dictate where he will end up shinning on the field and in the eyes of college recruiters. Some of the colleges already keeping a sharp eye on Vimahi includes Utah State, Nebraska, Georgia Tech, and Utah.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Vimahi covering his freshman season and snaps in Kahuku’s state championship game, his offseason workouts, and his potential college camp circuit.

Interview

Inoke, when did you start playing football?

“I started playing football in our Junior League in fourth grade. I’ve played on the offensive line my whole life. This past year, on JV (junior varsity), I was our starting left tackle. After we won our conference in JV, I played at the varsity level.”

Which varsity position did the coaches have you playing?

“In practice I was at tight end but in the championship game they put me in at left tackle.”

Wow. What was that like playing in the state championship game as a freshman?

“It was a humbling experience.”

When they called you off the sidelines and onto the field in the state championship game, what were you thinking?

“To be honest, I had some butterflies. Our senior linemen and quarterback talked to me and calmed me down. They told me “you were pulled up for a reason now show the world why.” I would like to thank my teammates because they helped me along the way.”

As an offensive lineman, what are some of the things you do well on the field?

“For me, I believe that my pass set is really sound. I’ve been working as a lineman all my life. I’ve always been taught to bend, look for inside moves in one-on-ones, and at second level. I’m comfortable in my stance. I think I’m comfortable in different stances. If I’m moved to guard in practice for reps, that helps me with different movements.”

Which position or positions did you play during spring ball?

“They are looking at putting me at nose guard on defensive line. They are trying to figure out where I will play on offensive line. I’m open to trying new stuff.”

Are you excited about playing on the defensive line?

“I’m very excited, especially having a defensive lineman in the house (Class of 2017 DE Aliki Vimahi). My dad (David) has us work on push-and-pull after practice. They both really help me a lot.”

What are your goals for the 2016 football season?

“My goal is to be a starter and to win another state championship. I want to get accustomed to the new position I’m playing. We are playing Bishop Gorman this year. I want to shine then to get some looks there as well.”

Did you earn any honors during your freshman season?

“I won a team honor for Outstanding Offensive Lineman. We don’t have conference honors at the JV level in Hawaii.”

What are you working on in the offseason?

“I’m mainly focusing on getting in combo blocks, that’s big in our offense. I’m also working on communication with the linemen on different assignments and what to pick up.”

Have you maxed out on any football lifts this offseason?

“Yeah I have. My bench is 245 and my squat is 425.”

Wow. That is really impressive considering your age.

“Thank you.”

It is early for you but are any colleges already showing interest in you?

“Yes, Utah State, Nebraska, Georgia Tech, and Utah are showing interest.”

Do you know what college camps you will attend this summer?

“I’m going to UC-Berkley, Stanford, UCLA, and USC.”

Are you getting excited about the college camps?

“Yes. I’m ready to get accustomed to the different opponents I will be facing. The camps will have a lot of players from other areas that may be better than the players in Hawaii. I’m ready to match up against other talents to test myself.”

Is there a next level player that you model your game after?

“Yes, I model my game after Joe Thomas. He’s with the Cleveland Browns. He knows how to use his strength against defenders. His punches are great. I model myself after that.”

Are you playing any other sports for your school?

“No but I hope to play basketball and volleyball next year.”

Do you have a GPA you don’t mind sharing?

“I have a 3.6.”

What is your favorite subject in school?

“Finance.”

What is your favorite part of playing football?

“The comradery. Football is another gateway to form relationships between teammates. You really have to trust each other and you have to trust the guy next to you. On the offensive line you have to bond to do well.”

Inoke, thank for your time today and good luck with all the upcoming camps.

“Thank you.”

Photo credit: Vimahi family; No. 65 Inoke Vimahi

Photo credit: Vimahi family; The Vimahi Boys.

Photo credit:  staradvertiser.com; Kahuku High School celebrates state championship win.