2022 DT Alex VanSumeren Pleased With Performance At Notre Dame

2022 Garber (Mich.) defensive tackle Alex VanSumeren‍ was a prospect with some buzz entering the Lineman’s Challenge at Notre Dame on Saturday as he already holds offers from Central Michigan, Kentucky and Michigan. 

The 6-foot-2, 260-pounder impressed throughout the camp despite being one of the youngest prospects in attendance. 

“I had a good time competing,” VanSumeren told Irish Sports Daily. “I was able to work my technique and show I could compete.” 

VanSumeren was excited to test himself against some of the best offensive linemen in the country and got the best of some of the best in the 2021 class, which will serve as momentum heading into the fall. 

“There was stiff competition on the offensive line and I went against some pretty good guys,” stated VanSumeren. “I think I got the best of them and I don’t think I lost a rep.” 

While at the camp, the Michigan native also had the chance to work with defensive line coach Mike Elston and his staff. VanSumeren was impressed with what he learned and how Elston coached the players at the camp.

“The interaction was great,” VanSumeren explained. “I had a great time and Coach Elston is a great coach. He has a great knowledge of the game and the defensive line. I learned quite a bit from him.” 

Notre Dame was a place VanSumeren had been before, so he had seen the landmarks around campus, but it served as a reminder of how the campus is different.

“I have been there a few times,” stated VanSumeren. “The campus is beautiful. You have Touchdown Jesus and the Golden Dome. It’s just a beautiful place.” 

VanSumeren doesn’t have any other visits or camps planned at the moment, but he and his coach are working on getting a few other trips locked in this summer. 

However, Notre Dame will get another visit from VanSumeren this fall. 

“I will definitely get back for a game,” said VanSumeren. “My head coach is a big Notre Dame fan, so I’ll definitely be coming back down.”