Danny Vanden Boom already has some fond memories at Camp Randall. Now he hopes to make even more.
The Kimberly quarterback committed to Wisconsin as a preferred walk-on Tuesday. (The Badgers will have a scholarship available for Vanden Boom in January of 2017 though.) He threw for 2,499 yards and 25 touchdowns last year for the Papermakers as they clinched their third straight state title.
“Excitement. Relief. Nerves. Lots of stuff going on in my head right now,” he said. “I think it’s the best situation for me, I know it’s the best situation for me and I’m looking forward to it but first we have to focus on Kimberly football.”
Topping the Papermakers incredible comeback in a snowy state title game at Camp Randall in which he led his team back from a 21-point second half deficit will certainly be difficult. Vanden Boom also recalled being in the stands for the Badgers upset victory over then No. 1 Ohio State when David Gilreath returned the opening kick-off for Wisconsin.
He knows the challenge and opportunity that he has in front of him. But if Vanden Boom needs any guidance he can look to his father, Matt, who played safety for the Badgers.
“My dad was a walk-on too so it’s not a huge deal whether you’re a scholarship kid or a walk-on kid when you come that first day,” he said. “You have to prove yourself no matter what.”
