Mana Taimani

6-5, 315 pounds
Concord, Calif.,
Clayton Valley Charter High School
3-star
Other offers: Portland State, Sacramento State, San Jose State, Dixie State
Ranked the 174th best offensive tackle in the nation, per 247sports.com

Video highlights: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/8040114/5dcf2a60b0235613f82ab37d

Q: Why Wyoming?
A: When I took my official visit to Wyoming, I enjoyed everything. From the facilities to the players and to the coaching staff. My other two top offers were Sacramento State and San Jose State, and I really enjoyed my official visits there, too. But I been praying a lot about this recruiting process and God basically has been giving me signs to go somewhere far, start fresh, get out of my comfort zone, and to not allow any distractions. Wyoming was just the place.

Q: What position will you play in Laramie and what can fans expect you to bring to the table?
A: Hopefully I get to play left tackle, which is a position I'm really familiar with, but if I don't, I'll be grateful for any position I can be able to start at if I'm able to. I come from a high school that runs the ball all the time and Wyoming runs the ball pretty much all the time. I think I can put an impact on helping the offense out with run blocking.

Q: What other schools showed interest in you?
A: San Jose State, Sac State, Dixie State and Portland State.

Q: When did you visit and what are your thoughts on the facilities, coaching staff, players, fans?
A: I visited Wyoming last weekend and I thought the facilities were great. Everything was organized and you pretty much had everything you need. The coaches were all great people and I really enjoyed building a relationship with all of them especially coach (Bart) Miller and coach Gordie (Haug). I've been in contact with them since the day they've offered me and I really appreciate those two. I also got to meet with the head coach, coach (Craig) Bohl at my high school. When we talked, I just knew he was a very humble man with a great heart. After our talk that day we even said a prayer so I really respect coach Bohl and can't wait to play for him. I met with the offensive linemen and they are all great guys. All really cool and nice guys, but when they're on the field, it gets serious and that's what I like because I feel like I'm the say way. The fans are also great, all loyal. During my official visit there were fans that were waving at me and talking to me. I can just tell the people of Wyoming are great people.

Q: What are your thoughts on the current UW team?
A: I think the current UW team are all great people and I can't wait to be with them all after my high school is over.

Q: What do you want Wyoming fans to know about you?
A: For the Wyoming fans, I just want them to know that I really hope I can make a big impact to the football team.