Tupou Tabbed to 2022 Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Watch List
Press Release: SAN MARCOS, Texas – Sione Tupou, Texas State’s leading returning tackler, was named to the 2022 Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award Watch List, the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame announced on Thursday.
An Athlon Sports Preseason All-Sun Belt Third Team selection this year, Tupou will lead an improved Bobcat defense as one of the top inside linebackers. He played in all 12 games last year, including eight starts, and totaled 76 tackles (20 solo), 2.5 tackles for loss, and two fumble recoveries. He finished the 2021 campaign 15th in total tackles in the Sun Belt.
Tupou, of Tongan ancestry, has played in 24 career games at Texas State with 140 tackles. He started his career at UTEP in 2017 and played his prep career at Allen (TX) High School.
The Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award is presented annually to the most outstanding college football player of Polynesian ancestry that epitomizes great ability and integrity.
Five finalists for the 2022 Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award will be unveiled on December 1 and the winner will be announced on December 15. The presentation of the award will be held during the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Week Celebration Dinner (January 21, 2023) at the Sheraton Waikiki, and the winner will also be recognized during the Polynesian Bowl (January 20, 2023).
Tupou is one of 85 players on this year’s preseason watch list and the only one from a Sun Belt team.
Tupou and the Bobcats start their season on September 3 at Nevada (2:30 pm PT/4:30 pm CT). The Texas State home opener is set for September 10 against FIU (6 pm).
Tickets for the entire 2022 Bobcat football season are on sale now at TXST.com/tickets.
– Eat ‘Em Up –
