Vikings‘ LB Andrew van Ginkel finds his drive to excel from the strong backing of his wife! Drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 2019, he transitioned to the Vikings in March last year. Playing at South Dakota first and then at Wisconsin, he made his dreams come true by making it to the NFL. And, across his journey, his then-girlfriend, and now wife, Samantha Van Dinkel, has been his ultimate support system.

From taking care of their two sons to engaging in charitable work together, Andrew and Samantha are truly made for each other. And seeing the immense influence of Samantha in Andrew’s life draws fans’ attention to know more. Let’s get to know her!

Who is Samantha Van Ginkel?

Samantha Van Ginkel, Andrew’s wife, has dedicated herself to family and faith. She holds a double major in Human Services and Criminal Justice, completing her studies at the University of South Dakota. Describing herself as “a child of God,” she leverages her social media platform to spread the message of love and kindness. Moreover, in the early mornings, she reads the Bible to find peace and orient her day.

As a mom to two boys, Leo Barrett and Ripken Kai, she remarks, “Motherhood is my ministry. I have two little boys that I’m trying to raise into men who show love,” as highlighted in the PhinPhanatic‘s article in 2023. Samantha also actively takes part in charitable causes, as she runs the Van Ginkel Impact Foundation with Andrew. By taking care of foster children and advocating to support families that are battling childhood cancer, she gives back to society.

The inspiration for her philanthropic work comes from Andrew’s late sister, who succumbed to cancer. Samantha adds, “Because of the tragedy that his family experienced, we are both very passionate about helping families and children throughout their fight with cancer,” as quoted in the same article mentioned above. Known as the “queen of tailgating,” she has a solid enthusiasm for life. It shines through in the events she curates for her guests, including her signature “Sam shots.” She plans to open a home for foster children one day and expand the scope of her charitable work.

What is Samantha Van Ginkel’s height and age?

As of 2025, Samantha Van Ginkel is 29 years old, having been born in September 1996. While specific details about her height aren’t provided, she appears to be of average height in photos with her 6’4″ husband. What truly stands out about Samantha isn’t her physical attributes but her spiritual depth. She frequently describes herself as “a child of God” and attributes her strength and perspective to her deep Christian faith. Her mornings typically begin with sunrise Bible.

How did Andrew Van Ginkel and Samantha Van Ginkel meet? 

The Van Ginkels’ love story began with a Facebook message when they were 15-year-old high school freshmen in Rock Valley, Iowa. Andrew decided to “slide into Samantha’s DMs” in December 2011. Their first date was on December 15, 2011, and according to Samantha, it was initially awkward since they had only communicated online before meeting in person. The connection, however, was undeniable. Their relationship endured through college years, with both attending Iowa Western Community College together before Andrew transferred to the University of Wisconsin to pursue his football dreams. Samantha supported them by working multiple jobs while Andrew focused on football, creating a foundation of mutual support.

What does Samantha Van Ginkel do for a living?

Samantha Van Ginkel’s career path reflects her diverse interests and compassionate nature. Before embracing her role as a mother and philanthropist, she worked as a security officer supervisor, early childhood educator, and licensed esthetician. Currently, she identifies primarily as a stay-at-home mom to her two young boys, describing motherhood as her “ministry.” However, her schedule extends far beyond domestic duties. She’s deeply involved with the Minnesota Vikings Women’s Organization, volunteering for events supporting foster children and women’s shelters. She also co-runs the Van Ginkel Impact Foundation with her husband, focusing on supporting families battling childhood cancer and assisting foster children.

Andrew Van Ginkel and Samantha Van Ginkel’ Children

Andrew and Samantha Van Ginkel are proud parents of two young boys and are now joyfully expecting their third. Their first son, Leo Barrett Van Ginkel, was born on July 8, 2021, followed by their second son, Ripken Kai Van Ginkel, in February 2023. Adding to the excitement, the couple has announced that they are expecting another baby boy, further growing their beautiful family. Samantha often shares that, “Motherhood is my ministry. I have two little boys that I’m trying to raise into men who show love.”

The boys may be too young to show football ambitions yet, but they are already regulars at games and team events, cheering on their dad. Completing the family are their two beloved dogs—Piper, who has been with Andrew and Samantha since their dating years, and Ryder, a newer addition who quickly became part of the pack.

Samantha Van Ginkel’s Instagram 

Samantha is active on Instagram under the handle @samvandinkel. Her social media presence offers an authentic look at their family dynamics, her charitable work, and her support for Andrew’s career. She frequently shares photos of game days, family moments, and Bible verses that inspire her. Although her Twitter and Facebook details aren’t explicitly mentioned, it’s noted that she used Facebook in her early relationship with Andrew. Her Instagram feed serves as a digital diary of their journey from high school sweethearts to NFL parents.

Samantha Van Ginkel represents a modern NFL partner who balances family, faith, and philanthropy while supporting her husband’s career. From those early Facebook messages in high school to navigating the unpredictable world of professional football, Samantha has remained grounded in her values. Whether she’s hosting tailgates (where she’s earned the title “tailgate queen”), volunteering at foster care facilities, or raising their two boys, Samantha does it all with genuine warmth.

As Andrew continues to make plays on the field, Samantha continues to build a legacy off it, one grounded in faith, family, and service to others. As she herself puts it, “I’m trying to use the platform we have to spread love & kindness no matter where our journey takes us.” And that’s a game plan worth cheering for.