Westlake High's Star Athletes Are Taking Their Talents To The Collegiate Level

Before the ink was even dry, family, fellow students and staff were up and applauding two seniors who will soon take their athletic prowess to the collegiate level.

Midfielder Dane Rimko and nose tackle Jacob Kutz accepted scholarships and signed on to play for Mercyhurst College and Ashland University, respectively, on Thursday.

During his time with the Westlake high soccer team, Rimko was a two-time captain, led the Demons to a district title, scored 23 goals with 27 assists and was given All-Greater Cleveland first team honors, athletic director Tony Cipollone said.

“(Rimko’s) been like a son to me," said soccer head coach Mike Besu after the signing. "He’s had a phenomenal career. He’s proud to be a part the demons. He’ll be greatly missed and we wish him nothing but the best.”

To help earn his way into Ashland, Kutz was given the Southwest Conference most valuable player award, which is a “remarkable feat for a defensive tackle,” Cipollone said.

Given his stats, it’s no wonder why Kutz was named MVP. He racked up 50 tackles, 34 of which were solo, and had six sacks.

“He was truly a force on the football field that allowed us to be successful,” football head coach Mark Campo said. “Good luck to you, Jacob.”

When asked how each made it to this point, their answers reflected those of disciplined and modest athletes. They remarked on honing their talents over the years, their focus, working with teammates and learning from coaches as well as their determination to be the best in order to make it to the collegiate level.  

“I’m excited to move forward and play at Mercyhurst,” Rimko said. “I’ve worked hard and I’m following my dreams and I hope my teammates, who are coming up, can sit at this table one day soon. This is a great moment.”

“Days like today are rewarding because I know I earned it,” Kutz said. “I put the time in, I stayed focused and now I have a scholarship. I’m really looking forward to the next four years.”