Penn State football defensive tackle Siale Tuapaki is anticipated to have a strong season among players representing the Polynesian community.

The UCLA transfer was named to the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Watch List, the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame announced on Thursday.

Polynesian Player of the Year Watch List

Siale Taupaki pic.twitter.com/aSM2d6KhuF

— Penn State Football (@PennStateFball) August 20, 2026

Tuapaki is one of the most experienced college football players, entering his seventh season at the collegiate level.

The transfer from UCLA switched from offensive to defensive lineman in 2024, but was a staple on the Bruins defensive line the past two seasons.

In the 2025 season, Tuapaki had 15 total tackles, one sack, two tackles for loss, and a fumble recovery for the Bruins.

Established in 2014, the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame honors a player of Polynesian descent who performs strongly on the field and embodies core values of Polynesian culture.

“The Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award has become a defining measure of excellence within the Polynesian football community,” Jesse Sapolu, Chairman, Co-Founder, and Inductee of the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame said. “This is true because it aligns with our cultural beliefs of respect, humility, work ethic and pride that represents and defines us.”

Former winners include collegiate and NFL standouts such as Marcus Mariota, Ronnie Stanley, Penei Sewell, Talanoa Hufanga, and Tetairoa McMillan.

Other notable first-round picks have also received this award and found success in the NFL; however, no Penn State player has received it.

The Nittany Lions kick off against Marshall at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 5, at Beaver Stadium.

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