Hawaii-commit Kupukaa looking forward to official visit this weekend

By the time Shaison “Fatz” Kupukaa arrives on the University of Hawaiʻi campus this weekend, one of the biggest decisions of his recruiting process will already be behind him.

The Campbell standout publicly committed to the Rainbow Warriors in mid-May, making his official visit less about weighing options and more about celebrating the choice he believes was right for him.

“I’m taking the official visit as a celebration to my commitment,” Kupukaa said. “Very grateful.”

Shaison Kupukaa lines up at safety during a play in the Open Division state championship game at T.C. Ching Field last December. | Photo: Michael Lasquero

For Kupukaa, a member of the Class of 2027, the decision to commit early came down to the people surrounding the program.

“They showed me a lot of love,” Kupukaa said. “I love the community, all-around, the hype and I just love the team. I love the coaches and the players.”

Kupukaa emerged as one of the state’s top two-way players during Campbell’s run to the Open Division state championship last season. He caught 11 touchdown passes while recording four interceptions at safety, consistently making plays in key moments for the Sabers.

In Campbell’s state semifinal victory over Kahuku, Kupukaa made a crucial fourth-down reception on the game-winning drive. He later added an interception in the state championship game against Kamehameha.

The 2027 prospect has drawn interest for his versatility, lining up at both wide receiver and safety. Hawaiʻi has given him the flexibility to continue developing at either position.

Shaison Kupukaa lines up at safety during a Campbell football practice in June 2026. | Photo: Michael Lasquero

“Right now they’re giving me the opportunity to choose wherever I want to play right now, so I’m still open to both sides,” Kupukaa said. “I’m just grateful for the opportunity.”

While many official visits serve as a final evaluation period for recruits, Kupukaa said his trip to Mānoa will focus on building stronger relationships within the program and getting a better sense of daily life as a Rainbow Warrior.

“Getting to know the coaches more and getting to see what it’s like at UH in a day,” Kupukaa said. “They’re having a lot of beach workouts when I’m there, so very excited for that.”

Kupukaa also noted a lighter aspect of his future in Hawaiʻi’s program. Campbell’s home uniforms feature black jerseys, similar to the Rainbow Warriors’ black uniforms.

“I can keep my drip that I got from Campbell, can wear it again,” Kupukaa said. “Don’t have to spend money.”

Despite helping lead Campbell to its first Open Division state title, Kupukaa said his focus entering his senior season is improving his consistency.

“Just consistency; in the weight room, on the field, even sometimes in the film room,” Kupukaa said. “I’m always trying to stay consistent. I feel like I can do that more better. We’ll see what this season has for me.”

When asked what Hawaiʻi is getting in him as a player, Kupukaa pointed to his character before his accomplishments.

“A very humble player that puts God first in everything,” Kupukaa said. “Very respectful and really helping to work hard for the team.”