In recruiting Hawaii linebacker Julian Gener, it was all relative.

Each family member — mother Leticia, father Javier and six siblings — unanimously approved Gener’s decision to join the Warriors.

"The family is very important to Julian," coach Norm Chow said. "They’re a loving, close family. They have a beautiful family."

Gener, who transferred from Mount San Antonio College in January, has drawn praise for his work at linebacker on the weak side and middle during spring training.

"We like how he fits into what we do," defensive coordinator Thom Kaumeyer said. "He’ll give us not only some pass rushing and blitzes, but he’s a smart kid who has awareness and can do a lot of things for us."

Gener, who has been practicing with the first-team defense, said the program’s family atmosphere factored in his decision to accept a UH scholarship.

"It made it an easier transition that I knew when I got out here, I’d have people to hang out with," Gener said.

Gener is the middle of seven children. Both of Gener’s grandfathers worked in the United States, easing the way for Leticia and Javier to emigrate from Cuba to California when they were children.

"I’m first generation Cuban-American," Gener said. "Everyone thinks I look Italian or Mexican. Someone even asked me if I was Hawaiian."

Gener said his surname is supposed to be pronounced "En-ay," although his parents answer to "Jenner."

"Everyone always butchers it," Gener said. "I’ve heard ‘Ga-neer’ and ‘Greer.’ I’ve heard multiple things. They’re like, are you related to Kim (Kardashian, whose step-father is Bruce Jenner)?’ I’m like, no, different spelling."

Gener said an elder brother, Justin, encouraged him to play football.

"I wear No. 28 because of him," Gener said.

Gener was a prolific tackler at Mount SAC. His highlight video caught the UH coaches’ attention.

"Watching him on film, he made a ton of plays rushing the passer," Kaumeyer said. "He’s a good tackler, a good football player. We really liked him. We began recruiting him. When we did the home visit, we met his family. His family is unbelievable."

Gener lived near the Mount SAC campus, 10 miles from his family home in West Covina, Calif.

"I came home whenever I wanted," Gener said. "Now, it’s a little bit more of a stretch to get home."

Gener said he keeps in daily contact with his parents and siblings through text messages, Skype and FaceTime.

"It’s crazy how much love I get, even though I’m not there," he said. "I keep in contact. I pretty much know all of the family drama as it’s happening, even though it’s an ocean away."

Still, this is the first time he is missing the family’s annual spring trip. They pack up in a 15-seat van and "pretty much go anywhere we want to go," Gener said. "I’m missing that, but I have things I need to do here. I’m out here trying to learn everything I can to help this team."