New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU) has arrived in American Samoa for a week-long recruitment trip, aiming to connect with prospective student-athletes and academic scholars. Head Football Coach Kurt Taufa‘asau, Linebackers Coach Ben Langford, and Athletic Director Cheryl Trujillo are leading the initiative, visiting high schools across the island to scout talent and introduce students to the opportunities available at NMHU.
During an exclusive interview with 93KHJ, Coach Taufa‘asau, a former NFL player for the Oakland Raiders, shared insights into NMHU’s football program and his transition from assistant coach to head coach. “It’s a big responsibility, but we’re excited about the direction of the program,” said Taufa‘asau, who, along with his staff, started the season with 114 players and currently has 82 athletes training in the spring.
Recruitment efforts are not limited to athletics. NMHU, a four-year public university in northern New Mexico, offers a wide range of academic programs, including associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees across disciplines such as Business, Media & Technology, Education, Social Work, and Arts & Sciences. “We want to showcase the academic pathways available for students here in American Samoa,” said Trujillo. “Our goal is to provide opportunities that foster both athletic and academic success.”
The NMHU team has been engaging with local athletes via social media ahead of their visit, setting up in-person meetings with prospective students. Their itinerary includes visits to Tafuna, Fagaitua, and Leone High Schools, among others, giving students a chance to explore pathways to college football and higher education.
Beyond athletics, NMHU has a growing Polynesian community, with several Samoan and Tongan athletes already part of their programs. The university also boasts a diverse international student population from regions such as Jamaica and Africa.
For those interested in learning more about NMHU’s programs, the team has been coordinating announcements via 93KHJ, Telecom Samoa News, and KVZK-TV. They will be available throughout the week for meetings and inquiries. Some team members are staying at Tradewinds Hotel, while others are hosted by local families.
“We’re here to open doors for student-athletes and scholars alike,” said Coach Taufa‘asau. “This is about creating opportunities and building futures.”
For more information, tune in to 93KHJ or reach out to NMHU representatives while they are in American Samoa.
