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Tailgate365 recently had the opportunity to interview BYU running back Fui Vakapuna as he prepares for the NFL Draft. Thanks to Dave Lee at Players Rep for his assistance in getting us together.
TG365 - Where are you working out and who are some of the players you are training with?
FV - My trainer is Dave Stroshine fitness and performance specialist out of Orem, Utah . I am working out with Fahu Tahi fullback of the Minnesota Vikings and Brian Soi defensive tackle that signed with the Green Bay Packers.
TG365 - What are your workout numbers?
FV - I'm still working on my numbers but what I've tested so far. I've gotten
Bench - 30 reps
First ten 40 - 1.59
First twenty – 2.61
Shuttle - 4.22
Vertical - 32"
Broad 10"0
TG365 - You’ve described as a “selfless, team-first player” and were awarded the Leon White Award for Unselfish Devotion. How does it feel to receive this kind of recognition?
FV - I feel honored about this award because I had to go through some struggles and hard times but worked through it and found postives through it all. I really believe team before individuals because that is how a team can bond and win championships. Without that whatever team your in will never progress and get better. I was very fortunate and humbled to receive the award really caught me off guard, but happy at the same time.
TG365 - Do you see yourself in a fullback role in the NFL?
FV - I do see myself as a fullback in the NFL and also a Half back in the NFL. I believe I can do both because I'm a big back and also can run with this size. I've done this all my life so why stop. I believe I can contribute in both and also special teams
TG365 - You were recruited by some pretty good programs. What was the main reason you chose BYU over the likes of Utah and Nebraska?
FV - I chose BYU because the atmosphere. The tradition it had as a football program also they wanted me to play running back. Other schools wanted me as a linebacker. The other reason was because close for family to come watch me play and close enough that I could be back for moms cooking if I was hungry.
TG365 - What would consider the most memorable game of your career?
FV - I have two memorable games. Tulsa game when I broke a lot of tackles but don't know how much. I do know it was over 6 broken tackles. And my last game playing in the Lavell Edwards Stadium against San Diego St. That was fun as a senior
TG365 - With all of the controversy surrounding Utah and the BCS this year, do you think the Mountain West Conference gets the respect it deserves?
FV - I think its building up to have better recognition. There could always be more recognition and respect, but the teams in the Mountain West will always prove year in year out that they deserve to be one of the top conferences. BYU, Utah, TCU, CSU. We do have teams that can compete and do well against the PAC 10, SEC, Big Ten, etc.
TG365 - Who has been the biggest influence in your life?
FV - Most influential persons are my parents. Semisi and Uina Vakapuna They have helped and provided me ever since I started playing football. They are hard workers and great example to me I am very grateful to have them as my parents.
TG365 - What are some things we may not know about you?
FV - Something that someone might not know about me is I love to play chess. Its very relaxing but competitive at the same time. Another thing that most people won't know my real name is not Fui. Fui is a nick name. My real name is Taufuievalu. (Tau-fui-eh-vah-lu). So if you wanna have a crack it be my guest.
TG365 - And now we want to give you a chance to brag a little with a simple question. Fui Vakapana, why are you so awesome?
FV - I wouldn't say that I'm awesome but some people might think that. I just believe that I can bring a lot to the table. Just trying to be humble about things helps me excel on whatever that I'm doing. I'm very grateful to have opportunities to play this game of football. I am a team player. I love to win and have championship rings so I hope the next level I can do that. Super Bowl here we come.
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