The Top Sophomore Defensive End In California: Elijah Tuua

Elijah Tuua is a 4 Star recruit who plays Defensive End at Folsom High School. Tuua is ranked as the 92nd best recruit in the class of 2028 and is ranked as a top 10 Defensive End in the class as well. In addition, Tuua is listed as a top 10 recruit in the state of California and is listed as the #1 Defensive End in the state of California. He holds offers from schools such as Utah, Cal and San Diego State.

Who are some role models in your life?
I would say some of my biggest role models are my parents, but I think my sisters Alannah and Ayla have both been big role models, with all their accolades and achievements in sports and school. It really has pushed me to do my best in sports and academics.

What are the strengths of your game?
I would say I have a good get-off and a strong strike. I’d also say I have the motor to keep going all game.

What is your favorite memory of your career?
One of my favorite memories from my career would probably be getting the first offer from Coach Powel at Utah. It was nice to see my hard work paying off.

Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?
I think some of the best players I’ve played with are Vlad Dyokonav and Nela Tupou. Vlad is always fun to go against, and it really helps me see what I’ll be facing in the future. Nela is like a big brother to me.

What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?
Some advice I would give to an aspiring D1 athlete is to keep your head down and work. It’s you against you. You have to want it most, and you have to put in the work. There’s always someone trying to be better than you.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
If I could travel anywhere in the world, it would be Samoa. I want to go there and just be with my people.

How old were you when you fell in love with the game?
I would probably say around 7. I started playing football as a running back and linebacker. I remember I wanted to stop playing all my other sports and just play football.

If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?
If I could meet one sports hero, it would probably be Troy Polamalu. I liked how he played and his humility.

What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?
My favorite sports moment as a fan was seeing Brock Purdy come out of nowhere and almost win a Super Bowl.