Hall of Fame
Jim Schaap, a Spring Lake native, has served Grand Valley State University in a number of capacities. Jim came to the Allendale campus from Grand Rapids J.C. where he was a standout in football. He played at Grand Valley during the 1972-73 season and was selected to the first All-GLIAC football team at offensive center in 1973, besides winning All-NAIA honors. Jim and teammate Tom Tefft were the first Laker football players to play professional football when they signed with the Detroit Wheels in the old World Football League in 1974.
Jim returned to his alma mater in 1978-79 serving as defensive line coach for two seasons under Jim Harkema. He is one of the founders of the Football Alumni Organization. The Organization has grown from 42 members during its first golf outing in 1981 to more than 200 members. Jim is also a member of the GVSU Alumni Advisory Board.
Upon graduation from Grand Valley, he coached football and wrestling at Spring Lake, Grand Haven and Lake Weir, Florida, High Schools. He was also head football and wrestling coach at Cedar Spring High School.
Jim and his wife, Carole, live in Grand Rapids. They have two daughters, Brooke and Lauren.
