Nov. 30, 2009
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IOWA CITY – University of Iowa Head Men’s Golf Coach Mark Hankins has announced that Ian Vandersee from West Des Moines, IA has signed a National Letter of Intent to attend the University of Iowa next fall. Vandersee is the first commitment of the 2010 recruiting class.
“Ian has been a top high school and junior player in Iowa since his freshman year,” said Hankins. “He is a tough competitor that comes from a winning program. His national tournament experience this past year and upcoming summer will have him well prepared to contribute to our program immediately.”
Growing up in Iowa with black and gold in his veins, Vandersee’s college choice was an easy one for him.
“I’ve always been a huge Hawkeye fan,” said Vandersee. “I’ve never been anything but a Hawkeye and I’m looking forward to continue doing so in Iowa City.”
Vandersee has been a four-year standout for West Des Moines Valley HS, where he has placed in the top-15 at Iowa’s state golf tournament all four years, including a second place finish his senior year. Vandersee also led the Tigers to the state team title as a sophomore. Valley was second the last two years after placing fifth when Vandersee was a freshman. Vandersee finished in the top-15 at the CIML conference meet four straight years, winning the individual title his senior year.
This past summer, Vandersee competed in multiple AJGA, USGA and PGA events, compiling five top-10 finishes. Among his best finishes include first at the USGA Boys Junior Amateur Qualifier, fourth at the Bass Pro Shop/Payne Stewart Junior Championship and fifth at the John Deere Classic Junior Open. Vandersee was the only Iowa Junior to compete at the US Jr. Amateur.
“I think the national tournaments I’ve competed in will help me transition into college golf,” said Vandersee. “Everyone is the best in their respective regions and if you’re not playing the best you possibly can, you’re not going to be successful.”
Vandersee will join an Iowa squad that has set a new standard in Hawkeye men’s golf. After an amazing 2008-09 season in which they finished 17th in the nation and rewrote many records for Iowa golf, the Hawkeyes began the 2009-10 season with four top-five tournament finishes this fall.
“I know that I’m definitely stepping into an extremely good golf team,” said Vandersee. “They are heading in a great direction because of Coach Hankins and a lot of talented players. I’m extremely excited!”