Pu’u-Robinson explains why he's leaving WSU

MANY TIMES WHEN a player leaves a program you don't hear much from the player about why. One day they're here, the next they're gone. But Washington State BUCK linebacker Jordan Pu’u-Robinson, who turned in a solid spring season for first-year coach Mike Leach, he has more to say about his departure and his planned transfer to Hawaii.

CF.C talked at length with Pu'u-Robinson, who said he was officially granted the right to transfer on Thursday and had finished up the spring semester with strong grades. Also, to help crystallize his thoughts on it all, he sent CF.C an email he asked us to share with the Cougar Nation.

Washington State has been my home for the past three years and my experience in Pullman has been remarkable. I have developed several strong relationships with my teammates, fellow classmates, coaches and other people affiliated with WSU. I want to thank the many people who have shown their support toward me and my family during this difficult process and my playing career. The Cougar tradition and spirit is very special and one that I will always cherish. Go Cougs.

Why?
I made the difficult decision leaving WSU for personal, family reasons. I decided that being back home in Hawaii with my family is what was most important during this time. This was NEVER a football related decision and I am going home with the intent to help my family.

I was told directly by the WSU coaches (this spring) that I was playing really well and was projected to be on the field a lot this next season. The decision was made in Mid-April to transfer and have been waiting for my release since then. As of yesterday I was officially granted my release. Regardless of any rumors you might have heard, I was never cut by WSU.

Feelings?
This has been an emotional and long process but is finally over. It will be hard to leave such a great place like WSU. I am going to miss my teammates and wish them the best of luck next year. It is difficult to not finish my career as a COUG but I will always be one at heart.

Football Career?
I had a great experience playing here at WSU. I would like to thank all of my teammates, coaches and athletic staff members for a bunch of great memories. I hope to continue my football career back home with Hawaii.

Jordan Puu Robinson

The Jordan Pu'u-Robinson timeline at WSU
Dec. 2008: Verbally commits to WSU
Feb 2009: Signs Letter of Intent with Washington State
2009 season: Redshirt
2010 season: Torn ACL during fall camp, missed season
2011 season: Posted 9 tackles, (5 solo). Started 2 games (Stanford, Washington) while playing in 10 games overall.