by Andy Hilton, recruit757
Ocean Lakes P/K Willem Van Reesema (Photo: Andy Hilton/recruit757)
Ocean Lakes kicker Willem Van Reesema became the latest player in The 757 to commit to Mike London and the University of Virginia. Recruitment developed late for Van Reesema, but his academics and his kicking prowess landed him a preferred walk-on in Charlottesville.
Kickers seldom land scholarships. In the case of Van Reesema, his academics vaulted him ahead of the pack. He was a three year starter for the Dolphins and produced in a big way at the high school level. Virginia’s invite was welcome news. He was proud to put on a Cavaliers cap at the signing day celebration Wednesday morning.
“I’m pretty excited. It’s a pretty cool thing,” Willem said just after the announcement. “I found out officially yesterday that they’re going to be taking me as a walk-on. I went on a visit in November and really didn’t hear anything until about two weeks ago.”
Van Reesema was already accepted as a student at Virginia before the offer from Mike London came along. He applied to the School of Engineering with a combined SAT score of 2010 and a GPA of 4.2. With admission to UVA a sure thing, the opportunity to play football was an additional benefit.
“I wanted to go to UVA for academics, so this is just icing on the cake,” Van Reesma stated. “I hope that I’ll be able to play and earn a scholarship.”
Ocean Lakes’ Head Coach Chris Scott was thrilled for Willem to have the opportunity.
“I’m proud of the class here at Ocean Lakes,” said Scott. “Willem came on as a kicker this year and he was one of the top kickers in the state with over 35 touchbacks this season. Most importantly, he has the opportunity because of what he’s done in the classroom. He’s headed to UVA and gets to take his talents to Charlottesville.”
- Andy Hilton
