After breaking in with the Boone varsity in 2024, Van Roekel broke out for the Toreadors last fall in earning all-district recognition. Twenty one of his 26.0 tackles were solo. He delivered 7.0 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks and a fumble recovery. Eleventh-grade highlights reveal a tenacious presence coming off of the edge. Van Roekel does well in setting the edge and keeping the play in front of him. He’s fast to the football and moves well laterally. Van Roekel also caught a couple of passes and showed an aptitude for blocking, keeping a path open to a future at tight end if progress stalls on the defensive line. He’s deserving of more attention along the recruiting trail and that could very well be arriving with a big senior year.

Van Roekel got his feet wet on the Toreador defense a year ago and could be ready for a breakout with more opportunity in 2025. Five of his 9.5 tackles last season were of the solo variety, and he also produced 2.5 stops for loss and a sack. While his Hudl page lacks a sophomore highlight video, it houses clips from three individual games. On them, we witness an intriguing prospect with sizable upside. Van Roekel looks fluid coming off of the edge with a burst and balance. He utilizes good leverage and has the strength to disengage quickly from blocks when the play comes his way. Van Roekel is, no doubt, one to watch this season.