The Details: Soderberg 'Always Wanted To Go Here'
April 18, 2016 | Football, General
By Mason Kelley
GoHuskies.com
Like many kickers, Van Soderberg's football career started on a soccer field.
A standout on the pitch, he was asked to try something new his freshman year at Capital High School in Olympia.
The football team needed a kicker.
He gave it a try, first as a placekicker before later adding punting duties. By the time he was a senior, he had become a prominent prospect, landing in recruiting rankings as both a punter – he averaged 39 yards per punt as a senior – and kicker – he made all 10 attempts during his final season with the Cougars.
With the talent to continue his career in college, there was only one program he was interested in.
“I always wanted to go here,” he said. “I grew up a Husky fan. This was my No. 1. It's a great place academically and athletically.”
In addition to being from a family of Washington graduates, Soderberg's aunt, Janet, is a former assistant coach with the women's basketball program.
With plenty of ties to the university, Soderberg went to a lot of games as a kid. He always wanted to be a part of the “hometown team.”
When he had the opportunity, he joined the program in time for spring football. He didn't want to wait, so here he is.
“I'm going to do as much as I can, whatever they need me to do,” Soderberg said.
With the graduation of punter Korey Durkee, there is an opportunity for Soderberg, but the freshman is currently focused on adjusting to college both on the field and in the classroom.
“I definitely have to improve and get up to speed,” he said. “It's completely different than high school, but there is an opportunity and a spot I can compete for through the fall.”
Soderberg said that in high school, he had plenty of time to collect the snap before booting the ball downfield on punts. Through the first few weeks of spring ball, Soderberg has been forced to adjust to the speed of the game.
“In college, you've got to get it out there,” he said.
However, it helps to have the opportunity to learn from experienced kickers like Cameron Van Winkle and Tristan Vizcaino.
“They've showed me the ropes the first few weeks or so,” Soderberg said. “I appreciate that.”
