Brycen Widhalm’s dream school was always West Point.
Widhalm was drawn to the academy’s academics, leadership opportunities and successful football program.
After sending Army special teams coach Sean Saturnio his mid-season senior highlights, the Cox (Va.) kicker received an invite to the Black Knights’ game against Charlotte Saturday.
Widhalm’s first West Point visit was everything he thought it would be and more. Following Army’s 24-7 win, Widhalm toured the team’s facilities. Saturnio offered Widhalm an opportunity to play for Army after the tour. Widhalm committed to the Black Knights on the spot.
“It took me seconds to accept it (the offer),” said Widhalm, a senior, who also drew interest from East Carolina, Appalachian State, VMI and Villanova. “My recruiting was over once Army offered. Army was always at the top of my list. I’ve always wanted to serve this country.”
Widhalm’s Army commitment has a deeper purpose and meaning. Widhalm is Gold Star military child. Ken Owens, his father and a Navy diver, was killed in a 2009 skydiving accident in Hawaii when Widhalm was 19 months old. Widhalm, who was born at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, received positive feedback on his junior film from Saturnio, a native Hawaiian. Saturnio stayed in contact with Widhalm through his summer camp entering his senior season.
”My connection to coach Saturnio and Army felt perfect,” Widhalm said.
Widhalm’s final high school season has included field goals of 51, 47 and 46 yards and a 40-yard game-winner. His career-best field goal is 54 yards.
Widhalm came from a soccer background where he played in a national-team league in Virginia Beach. He was drawn to Friday night lights and developed into the best kicker and punter in his region as a junior. Widhalm played soccer during the week and kicked on Fridays.
“My head (football coach) Tyler Noe and defensive coordinator Brian Graham were always very supportive and encouraged me to follow my heart,” Widhalm said.
Widhalm is following his heart to West Point.
