Recruiting Spotlight: Layne Kupihea, Highland Baptist Christian School, New Iberia, Louisiana

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Linebacker and offensive lineman Layne Kupihea of Highland Baptist Christian School is a slept-on prospect in Louisiana’s Class of 2027. Standing at 6’2’’ and weighing 225 lbs, Kupihea has the potential to play either offensive line or tight end at the next level.

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Kupihea put together a very impressive junior season, receiving second-team all-district honors as both an offensive lineman and a linebacker. Lupikea also won defensive MVP in basketball for his district, and he was a member of the track team.

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According to Lee Brecheen, Kupihea’s body is still growing, and his growth will decide what kind of impact he can make at the next level.

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“Kupihea has good size, and he’s still growing. He could become 6’3’’ and 270 pounds as an offensive lineman, or he could stay around 6’3’’ and 240 pounds as a tight end,” said Brecheen.

In the classroom, Kupihea maintains a 4.0 GPA, and he scored a 21 on the ACT, showing a strong commitment to his academics as well. Once he gets to college, Lupikea would like to major in kinesiology. 

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Kupihea spoke on how he has a brotherly type of bond with his teammates and the impact his coach has on them.

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“Our team here is like family, and stepping onto that field with them is always an honor. Coach has really pushed us to adapt quickly, and we’re working hard to build the kind of team he envisions for us,” said Kupihea.

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Kupihea currently has an offer from San Bernardino Valley College. He also has been consistently talking to coaches of McNeese and Nicholls.

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Athletics are very common in Kupihea’s family, as his father played football at New Iberia Senior High. His mother played volleyball there too.

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