With his coaching staff finally complete, Humboldt State head coach Rob Smith is looking ahead to his first spring practice session directing the Lumberjack program.

Joining offensive coordinator Eric Tripp and defensive line coach Solomona Tapasa, both recent staff additions, will be Shay McClure, who continues in the role of defensive coordinator he has filled for the past two seasons.  Also coming on board is Manoa Pouono, former graduate assistant coach at Fresno State, who will serve as the Lumberjacks’ offensive line coach.

McClure, the only returnee from the previous coaching staff, was selected from a deep pool of candidates. His familiarity with the HSU program and background in coaching, including a one-year stint as interim head coach at Southern Oregon and five years as defensive coordinator at SOU, solidified his return.

“Shay has been instrumental in assisting with my own transition to Humboldt State, including getting to know the players,” Smith said. “But that’s not why he’s on my staff. He’s on staff because he’s the right person for the job. He has the background in coaching that we need, and he knows the state of California as a recruiter.”

Also included in McClure’s previous experience is a two-year role as defensive backs coach and special teams coordinator at NCAA Div. IAA University of San Diego. 

Pouono brings instructional experience in offensive line techniques and fundamentals. At Fresno State he also held responsibilities for producing scouting reports, evaluating recruits and game preparation. 

Pouono earned his B.A. in Latin American Studies from Fresno State, where he played center and guard for two seasons, starting nine games for the Bulldogs.

“Noa comes highly recommended by Fresno State head coach Pat Hill,” Smith said. “He believes in him, and we believe we have the person who can best help our offensive line.”

Humboldt State’s spring practices begin on Wednesday and conclude on May 3 with an intrasquad game in the Redwood Bowl.