University of North Dakota Athletics

Before UND: A 2007 graduate of Billings West High School ... Helped lead Billings West to back-to-back AA state championship games as a junior and senior, winning a state title as during junior season ... A two-time (2006 and 2005 L all-state first team pick as a receiver and a 2006 all-state first team selection as a punter ... Averaged 39.4 yards per punt as a senior ... Named to 2006 Super State Football Team and 2006 Montana Athletic Journal All-State team ... Competed in the 2007 and 2006 Badlands Bowls and the 2006 Shrine Game ... A prep teammate of fellow UND recruit Brandon Quesenberry ... A three-year letterwinner in track and field.

Personal: Plans to major in athletic training ... Son of Doug and Rita Van Zee.

Coach Lennon on Van Zee: “Deryk was the team captain and leader for one of the most successful programs in the state of Montana. He is a versatile player who will be a valuable offensive addition and a strong contributor to our special teams.”