NEXT LEVEL: Makai Puga Inks with Cal Poly SLO

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. - Allan Hancock College football wide receiver, Makai Puga, has signed with Cal Poly SLO to continue his academic and athletic career next season. 

"I've always wanted to go to Cal Poly because I felt like that school would allow me to do what I love - play football - while pursuing my degree at a school known for academic and staying close to my family," Puga shared. "I've kind of always envisioned myself playing for the Mustangs, and I feel very blessed to have this opportunity."

Puga completed his second season of competition with the Bulldogs in the fall. The Arroyo Grande native had a stellar sophomore campaign that ended with several accolades, including CCCFCA First Team All-America, First Team All-State (Region III), and First Team All-League honors. He also broke the school record for single-season receiving yards after totaling 1,146 yards through 10 games played. Puga also finished just one touchdown shy of the current AHC receiving touchdowns bar, totaling 11, and racked up 1,812 all-purpose yards on the season. Notably, the Bulldogs missed out on one game at the end of the regular season due to a forfeit by Antelope Valley College. 

"My time at Hancock really helped because it gave me the time that I needed to develop. I spent three years here in total, one as a grey shirt where I was able to start off school in a part-time setting while just practicing, and two competing. The level of competition for football that we play at is no joke, and I think taking a year to adjust to it after high school really helped me," Puga added. "My first year of competition allowed me to kind of 'get my feet wet' and it made me realize that I really could do this. Going into my sophomore season, I worked my tail off to adjust to this level of play and that led me to a high level of confidence on the field this past fall. Making the decision to take my time was the best thing I've ever done. I am forever grateful for Hancock and the doors that being here has opened up for me." 

The Mustangs are a Division I member of the NCAA and compete in the Big Sky Conference. 

Stay connected with Bulldogs Athletics on social media! Follow us on Facebook, X, & Instagram. To enroll in our athletics text/email alert system, please click here.