I have not posted in years, but I am always reading what you guys post. After what happened today, I thought you should know about it!
I was on a flight from DFW to Charlotte this morning. As we were getting off our flight I noticed a couple a few rows ahead of me decked out in Notre Dame gear. The woman had a large #5 on the back of her shirt, and they looked Hawaiian. I caught up with her and found out that she was Manti's mom (dad had left to go get something to eat). We had a good 15 minute talk about his going to Notre Dame, his last minute decision, and Brian Polian. She gushed when speaking about Coach Polian. She even corrected me because I had slipped and said "Bill Polian". I asked her about Isaac Savaiinaea, and she said that her husband coached Isaac's high school team as a running back coach.
When Manti's dad approached, he introduced himself as Brian (as he said that it was easier than his long hawaiian name). Conversation went like this:
Mom: "He is a graduate from Texas A&M."
Dad: "Great, I coach a guy that has committed to Texas A&M". He then said it was Isaac Savaiinaea.
Me: "Did he just commit?"
Dad: "I guess he hasn't yet." (smiling)
Me: "But you know which way he is leaning?"
Dad: "Well, as of late he has been wearing A&M shirts under his football gear. I thought that he was trying to make a clear statement!"
I about had a heart attack! We then talked about how there are other Hawaiians on the A&M team, and Mom mentioned that Coach Polian would make him feel right at home. I told them I was concerned about UCLA since it is right across the water. To that Dad replied "it's just another sandwhich and a drink. Once you are on a plane, you just have another stop". Mom then chimed in that distance will NOT be a concern with Isaac's commitment. Manti's parents are a class act. We talked further about Manti and Johnny Football moving forward and all the pressures they will face. Dad said "if Manti slips up he will get a big tattoo across his backside!" We all had a great laugh.
Well, there you have it. I thought of you guys and even got a picture with them to show you. But, I don't know how to post it. Sorry about the length of this posting, but I thought it would get you a little excited as it did me! Come on aboard Savi!!!
