Leilehua Student An Anchor For Athletics And Family
A commitment to helping others has been a theme throughout Toma Savea’s life.
He has his mother, Kuini, to thank for that.
“I’d have to say my mom has had the biggest impact on me,” said Savea, a volleyball and football standout for Leilehua. “She always tells people, ‘We are all family — no matter who you are.’ She’s always put others before herself.”
It is no small wonder that Savea will major in psychology at Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa, which he will attend on an academic and football scholarship.
In his sophomore year, Savea saw his responsibilities to his family increase when both his mom and father, Tutonu, had taken ill. His father was diagnosed with lupus, and his mother had a stroke.
Seeing his parents in better health has been among the highlights of 2015 for Savea.
“They are both OK now and don’t have to depend on me as much, so they sort of turned me loose for my senior year,” he said.
Savea’s senior year was one to remember. He was named Leilehua’s Outstanding Male Athlete of the Year, along with being honored as the football team’s Outstanding Receiver and MVP of the Mules’ volleyball team.
Savea recently took some time to visit with Central Oahu Voice.
What is your earliest sports-related memory?
When I was 12, I was playing for the Wahiawa Thunderbolts and our offense turned the ball over on our own 10-yard line. I played all four downs (on defense), and we shut them down.
What will you be focusing on this summer?
I’ll be doing more (weight) lifting and more footwork. My date to report is Aug. 9, but I’m going there July 30, the day after my birthday.
What’s your favorite memory from your time playing for Leilehua?
I’ve lived here my whole life, but I only got to play in Aloha Stadium three times. One of the games was when we beat Kailua, and I had 165 yards receiving and three touchdowns.
What is one item you couldn’t live without?
My phone. I need it to keep in touch with the people I don’t see every day.
What Internet site do you frequent the most?
I’d have to say YouTube. I like to watch football highlights, especially Cordarrelle Patterson because he plays for my team (the Minnesota Vikings).
What is your least favorite household chore?
I don’t have to do that much around the house, but when I do, I’d have to say it is washing the dishes.
What movie could you watch over and over?
Forever Strong — it’s a rugby movie. I like the movie because it gives people hope to not give up when times get hard.
Who are three of your favorite musical artists?
I’d have to say SiGi, J. Cole (Jermaine Lamarr Cole) and Sammie Jay.
How do you like to spend your free time?
I don’t play video games, and I don’t watch TV. Mostly, I sleep.
You’re stuck on Kahoolawe and can have an endless supply of one food. What would it be?
I’d have to say taro.
What celebrity would you most like to meet?
(Comedian) Kevin Hart.
