INDIANAPOLIS - The Marian University football team and head coach Ted Karras, Jr., are proud to announce the commitment of Zack VanDeman for the 2010 season.

VanDeman, who will graduate from Whiteland Community High School this spring, committed to the Knights on Monday afternoon.

He is a three-sport athlete at Whiteland where he lettered in football, wrestling, and track and field. He is a three-year letter winner in track and was the team captain of the football team where he was named IFCA All-State first team.

He was part of a sectional championship team and was named All-Conference and All-County. He was also selected to the Indiana North/South All-Star Game. As a wrestler, VanDeman was a two-time Mid-State Conference champion, a two-time regional champion and most valuable wrestler, and was a two-time sectional champion. Additionally, he qualified for semi-states on two occasions as well. He holds the school record for most team falls and was the team captain.

His academic prowess is unmatched. He was an Academic All-Conference selection in football and was named a Mid-State Conference Scholar Athlete in wrestling. Additionally, he was an Academic All-State first team selection in football and an Academic All-State selection as a wrestler. He also earned the WCHS Scholastic Award for having the highest GPA.

Zack's will compete alongside his brother Jacob next season. He has eight brothers and is the son of Mark and Susan.

VanDeman is the ninth signing for the Marian University football team. The Knights will open competition on Saturday, August 26 when the University of St. Francis (Ill.) comes to St.Vincent Health Field for the first-ever game under the lights.