Squalicum football’s Laki Fagaautau is one of the Storm’s top playmakers. The 6-foot-3, 215-pound junior plays outside linebacker, tight end and punter. He also took over as running back against Sehome since a few players were not suited up for the game.
“Having the ball in my hands, going through the motions and playing with my brothers is the best thing,” Fagaautau said. “This is all I can ask for.”
Fagaautau rushed 13 times for 103 yards and a touchdown against the Mariners Oct. 25. When the regular season ended, he was fifth in Whatcom County with total tackles (69) and second in punting yards average (37.2).
“I bring a lot to this team, but scratch all of that,” Fagaautau said. “I am out here to represent our school and have fun. It shows on the field because this is what I’d rather be doing than sitting at home and playing games.”
Fagaautau showcased his skills in Squalicum’s Week 7 matchup against Port Angeles, finishing the game with eight tackles, two-and-a-half tackles for loss, two forced fumbles and a sack.
Fagaautau began playing AAU basketball and rugby before he entered high school. As a sophomore, he transferred to Squalicum High School, where he was introduced to football.
“Not only has football turned me into a good player on the field, it also makes me a good person off the field,” Fagaautau said. “Off the field, it helps me keep my grades up there and keeps me moving forward. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else than out here on Friday nights.”
When Fagaautau takes the field, his teammates look to him as a leader. However, he had to learn how to fill a big role by the end of his first season.
“For the seniors, it is the last time they get to play on this field and last year they will touch the field,” Fagaautau said. “They were there for me when I was younger. It is big for me to step up next year and be a leader.”
Although Fagaautau has another season with the Storm, he has his eyes set on playing either football or rugby in college. He does prefer football and says he will stay humble as he tries to reach his goals.
Nick Zeller-Singh is CDN's sports reporter; reach him at nickzellersingh@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 104.
