What led you to play field hockey?
Field hockey has always been part of my life. Both of my parents played hockey, so I grew up around the sport from a very young age. What started as something familiar quickly became something I truly loved. The combination of teamwork, speed, and creativity made me want to keep improving and see how far I could go.

What does field hockey mean to you right now?
Today, field hockey is much more than just a sport for me. It is the place where I can channel my energy, challenge myself physically and mentally, and continue growing as both an athlete and a person. It gives me structure, purpose, and the opportunity to work toward shared goals with teammates. The process of improving together, overcoming setbacks, and celebrating successes is what makes it so meaningful.

What was it like to represent your country? How did it feel?
Representing the Netherlands felt like the ultimate reward for years of dedication and hard work. Wearing the national jersey brings an incredible sense of pride, gratitude, and responsibility. You realize you are part of something bigger than yourself.

What makes it especially powerful is seeing the impact you can have on others. When you notice children watching from the sidelines, smiling and feeling inspired, you understand that sport goes beyond competition. It creates role models and memories for the next generation.

Which achievement are you most proud of and why?
Winning Olympic gold in Paris is definitely the achievement I am most proud of. Reaching the Dutch national team was already a long and challenging journey, and competing at the Olympic Games had always been a dream of mine.

The entire experience, including living in the Olympic Village, feeling the intensity of the tournament, and competing at the highest possible level, was unforgettable. Winning gold after such an exciting final made it even more special. It was the perfect culmination of years of teamwork, sacrifice, and belief.

How would you describe your playing style?
My playing style is based on overview and control. I like to read the game well, stay calm under pressure, and create opportunities for teammates. I focus on maintaining possession and delivering precise passes that help move the attack forward. I enjoy contributing to the flow of the game and helping the team play intelligently and efficiently.

What makes you unique on the field? What do fans recognize you for?
Fans often recognize me by my hairband, which has almost become part of my identity on the field. In terms of play, I am also known for my role during penalty corners, where focus and precision are essential.

What is your ritual before and after the game?
My ritual is simple but important. Once the hairband goes in, it is game time. That small routine helps me switch mentally into competition mode and fully focus on the match ahead.

How does a normal day in your life look?
A typical day revolves around training, recovery, and preparation. Depending on the schedule, I train either on the field or in the gym, followed by recovery sessions such as stretching or physiotherapy. Outside of hockey, I also spend time working on professional projects and maintaining balance by relaxing with friends or family. Structure and consistency are key to performing at a high level.

What makes you happy?
Working hard toward something and seeing progress or results gives me a lot of satisfaction. Improvement, whether in sport or life, motivates me every day. Spending quality time with family and friends is equally important because it helps me stay grounded and recharge mentally.

What do you do besides field hockey?
I recently completed my master’s degree in finance, which was an important personal milestone. At the moment, I am working on an exciting project together with Osaka. I enjoy combining sport with professional development because it allows me to grow beyond my athletic career as well.

How do you stay on top of your game physically and mentally?
Maintaining balance is essential. I train hard, but I also prioritize recovery and mental freshness. That means listening carefully to my body, getting enough rest, eating well, and setting new goals that keep me motivated. Staying mentally engaged is just as important as physical preparation at the highest level of sport.

What do you still want to achieve as an athlete?
I still have many ambitions. With SCHC, I would love to become national champion and win the Euro Hockey League (EHL). With the Dutch national team, I look forward to competing in upcoming major tournaments, including the World Cup and eventually the Olympic Games in Los Angeles. As long as I continue enjoying the game and improving, I want to keep pushing for new achievements.

How do you see the evolution of field hockey in the coming years?
Field hockey is becoming faster, more athletic, and increasingly professional. Technology, data analysis, and physical conditioning are playing a bigger role than ever before. At the same time, creativity and technical skills remain essential. I believe the sport will continue growing globally, attracting new audiences and inspiring more young players to start playing.

What does it mean for you to be an Osaka ambassador?
Being an Osaka ambassador means representing a brand that aligns with how I experience hockey: creative, passionate, and detail oriented. I am proud to be part of a community that shares the same ambition to pursue big dreams, both on and off the field.

What prompted you to team up with Osaka?
What attracted me most was the enthusiasm and energy of the people behind the brand. Their genuine passion for hockey, combined with a strong and stylish identity, made the collaboration feel natural from the start. It feels like a partnership built on shared values rather than just sponsorship.

What is your most important advice for a beginner athlete?
Try to distinguish yourself by being consistent and authentic. Talent is important, but dedication, discipline, and willingness to learn every day make the real difference over time.

How do you want to inspire young players? How do you want to be remembered as a player?
I hope young players see someone who truly enjoys the game and works hard every day to improve. Sport can give you confidence and teach you to believe in yourself, not only on the field but in life as well. If I can inspire others to enjoy the journey and trust their own potential, that would mean a lot to me.

What would you tell your younger self?
Be patient. Progress takes time, and every step, including setbacks, is part of the journey toward becoming better.