Football's Justus Makainai Commits to Graceland University

Football's Justus Makainai Commits to Graceland University
July 18, 2022

SANTA MARIA, Calif. - Allan Hancock College defensive end, Justus Makainai, has committed to continuing his academic and athletic career at Graceland University next season.

"Graceland was on my list of top three schools as I started to narrow down my decision. I like the idea of exploring life in the Midwest and I'm kind of excited about the possibility of playing in the snow," Makainai stated. "The school is in a smaller setting, which I think will be easier for me. It also includes all of my expenses like tuition, books, meals, and dorms, which means I won't have to worry about finding housing. Lamoni is a much smaller town, so I feel like there will be fewer distractions and I'll be able to put more of my focus on both school and football throughout the year. An added bonus is that I have at least two fellow Bulldogs from the islands going with me with more being interested, so I won't be totally alone."  

The Hawaii native, who has been at AHC since 2019, completed his second season with the Bulldogs last fall. He totaled 19 tackles on the season while being credited with 2.5 sacks and 4.5 tackles for loss. Makainai also ran for 19 yards after recovering one fumble. As a freshman, the W.R. Farrington High School alum recorded 17 tackles, five sacks, and forced one fumble.

"My time at AHC prepared me for success at the next level in so many ways, especially when you consider that I was coming from an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and had never been away from my family for longer than a week. The coaches at Hancock, as well as the staff, made the transition very smooth for me," Makainai added. "I came to AHC afraid, but they made sure that whatever support I needed was available. Mrs. Lainey has been there from the first time that I walked into her office all the way through until it was time to make my decision. She's been helping me get everything together that was necessary for me to accept my offer from Graceland and I'm thankful for her support. Nobody on this campus ever gave up on me and for that, I'll forever be grateful." 

Graceland University, located in Iowa, is a member of the NAIA and competes in the Heart of America Athletic Conference.