Washington State picks up lineman
When Kalafitoni Pole officially visited Washington State last weekend he got along well with the players and coaches but what truly sold him on the Cougars was when he learned about the academics and how the school can help his future.
So Pole, a 6-foot-2, 280-pound prospect from Union City (Calif.) James Logan, decided to commit to Washington State, where he's slotted to play defensive end.
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Utah had also offered, Arizona State was pushing for an official visit this weekend and Idaho State had shown interest but Pole was most comfortable in Pullman so he decided to end things.
"I liked the type of community they have over there," Pole said. "It's a great place for me to focus on my school and my future. The academics are great and the support system is always a plus. It helps to have that kind of help they provide for all the players.
"I've learned it's a top academic school. They said it's one of the top in the nation so if you can get a degree there you can get a job especially in these bad times."
During his official visit weekend, Pole developed a stronger relationship with defensive line coach Malik Roberson but really he has been comfortable with the entire staff for some time. That familiarity played a big role in his decision to commit.
"They're all really good coaches," said Pole, who might move to defensive tackle but was recruited as a defensive end.
"They're the same on the visit as they'll be for the next four years. I'm close with the defensive line coach. I'm close with all the coaches. I have a relationship where I can talk to them about things and they'll be there to help me."
Utah had been Washington State's main competition but Pole said there will be no changes in his commitment and no more visits. Arizona State has tried to get him in this weekend but Pole said it won't happen.
"I said I didn't want to go," he said. "I committed to Washington State."