The Netherlands is one of the most successful field hockey nations in the world, boasting some of the best field hockey players in the world. With a team that has won three Olympic gold medals and seven European Championships, the Dutch have an impressive record in the sport.
From the legendary Ties Kruize to the modern-day stars like Naomi van As and Eva de Goede, the Netherlands has produced some of the greatest field hockey players in the history of the game.
We will take a look at some of the best field hockey players from the Netherlands, and how they have helped to shape the sport in the country.
1. Mink van der Weerden
Mink Alphons Louis van der Weerden is a renowned Dutch field hockey player, who has been playing as a defender for many years. He began his hockey career at HCAS, a club based in his hometown.
During his time at HCAS, he gained a great deal of experience and was able to further develop his skills. After that, he moved to Oranje Zwart and Oranje-Rood, two other Dutch hockey clubs, where he continued to hone his ability.
In 2020, van der Weerden took his career to the next level when he signed with Rot-Weiss Köln, a leading German hockey club. This move marked a significant milestone in his career, as Rot-Weiss Köln is well known for its high level of competition.
With this move, van der Weerden was able to expand his reach and become a more well-known hockey player, both in the Netherlands and in Germany. He will be a valuable addition to the team for years to come.
2. Margot van Geffen
Margot van Geffen is a talented Dutch field hockey player. She started playing field hockey at the young age of six, showing her immense love for the sport. Since 2011, she has been a part of the Dutch national team, making her mark in the field hockey world.
Her commitment and hard work have paid off as she has achieved great success in her career. She won the 2014 World Cup and further added to her collection of medals by winning a gold and a silver medal in the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, respectively.
These successes demonstrate her dedication and skill as a field hockey player. She is an inspiration to all of those who have a passion for the sport and serve as a reminder that hard work and dedication can lead to greatness.
3. Stephan Veen
Stephan Patrick Veen is a retired field hockey player from The Netherlands. He played as a forward and midfielder for the Dutch national squad. During his career, he achieved extraordinary success, winning two Olympic gold medals with the team.
The first medal came in 1996 at the Atlanta Summer Olympics. Veen’s impressive performance on the field helped the Dutch squad to a first-place finish. Four years later, he achieved the same feat at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia.
This time, the Dutch team won the gold medal by a single goal. Veen’s accomplishments as a field hockey player have earned him a place in the history of the sport.
His two Olympic gold medals have made him an inspirational figure for aspiring athletes in the Netherlands and beyond. He has also been recognized for his achievements by the Dutch Olympic Committee, which awarded him the Order of Orange-Nassau in 2005.
4. Taco van den Honert
Taco Hajo van den Honert is a highly accomplished former field hockey player from the Netherlands. He was a skilled striker and was good enough to make it onto the Dutch national team for three Olympic Games.
At the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia, he and the rest of the Dutch team were able to make history by becoming the first Dutch field hockey team to ever win a gold medal.
It was a huge accomplishment for van den Honert, as well as all of the other players who had worked so hard to make it to the Olympics and bring home the gold.
Van den Honert’s dedication and skill have made him a legend in the sport of field hockey, and he will always be remembered for his accomplishments.
5. Jeroen Hertzberger
Jeroen Hertzberger is an accomplished Dutch field hockey player who currently plays for both the Rotterdam and Dutch national teams. He has had notable success in the sport, achieving a bronze medal in the 2007 Champions Trophy held in Kuala Lumpur.
The Dutch team was looking to replicate this success in 2008, when the same tournament was held in Rotterdam, however they were only able to manage fourth place. Hertzberger has proven himself to be an essential part of the team, and his presence is certainly felt on the pitch.
He continues to be a key player for both Rotterdam and the Dutch national team, and his skills and experience are sure to be a great asset for years to come.
6. Carina Benninga
Carina Marguerite Benninga was a talented field hockey player from the Netherlands who had a distinguished international career. She was a member of the Dutch national team for 158 matches and achieved an impressive 25 goals.
Her international success included a gold medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics and a bronze medal at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Her outstanding performances on the field helped to establish her as one of the greatest Dutch field hockey players of all time.
Benninga’s Olympic records were part of a long list of accomplishments that cemented her place in the field hockey history books. Her passion for the sport and her commitment to excellence have inspired generations of players and will continue to do so for many years to come.
7. Ellen Hoog
Ellen Marijn Hoog is a retired Dutch field hockey player who has made an indelible mark on the sport within the Netherlands.
During her time on the field, she displayed exceptional skill and talent, creating a legacy that has earned her the distinction of being considered one of the greatest Dutch hockey players of her generation. Hoog first started playing field hockey at the age of nine.
Since then, she has gone on to compete at the highest level in both club and international competitions. She was part of the Dutch national team from 2002 to 2014 and helped them to a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
She was also a part of the Dutch team that won the European Championships in 2005 and 2011. At the club level, Hoog played for HC Bloemendaal, a Dutch hockey club, for eleven years.
During her time there, she was part of four championship-winning teams and also won the EHL Cup in 2013.
She was named the ‘Player of the Year’ in the Netherlands in 2008 and her team was named the ‘Team of the Year’ in 2011. Hoog’s talent and dedication to the sport have earned her the respect of both her peers and the hockey community in the Netherlands.
She is seen as a role model for young players and an inspiration to many. Her accomplishments have solidified her place in the history of Dutch field hockey and she is widely recognized as one of the best players of her generation.
8. Els van Breda Vriesman
Els van Breda Vriesman-Commandeur is a Dutch sports administrator and jurist who was born in 1941 in the city of Enschede, Netherlands. She studied law and had a passion for field hockey, going on to play in the Dutch national youth team.
She was a tireless advocate for the sport and dedicated her life to promoting and developing it both nationally and internationally. Throughout her career, Els Commandeur has been a highly respected figure in the sports world.
She was a member of the Dutch Olympic Committee from 1993 to 2004 and was appointed chair of the Women and Sport Commission of the International Olympic Committee in 1994.
Commandeur was appointed the Vice President of the International Hockey Federation in 1997 and held the position for four years. In 2004, she was the first woman elected to the Executive Board of the International Olympic Committee, a position she held until 2012.
In addition to her sports credentials, Commandeur has also been a successful jurist. She was a court judge in Amsterdam from 1981 to 1993 and was the first female judge in the Netherlands to specialize in sports law.
She has also served on the boards of several professional sport associations, such as the Royal Dutch Football Association and the Dutch Athletics Association. Els Commandeur is a true leader in the sports world and has been a pioneer for women in sports.
Her dedication to the development of sports, both in the Netherlands and abroad, is a testament to her commitment and passion for the game.
9. Det de Beus
Anna Maria Bernadette “Det” de Beus is a former field hockey player from the Netherlands. She was born in Utrecht and is famous for being the first goalkeeper in women’s field hockey to wear a mask.
De Beus played for the Eindhovense Mixed Hockey Club in Eindhoven and was a member of the Dutch national team from 1978 to 1988. During this period, she was an important part of the team’s success and was a key contributor to the national team’s accomplishments.
De Beus was a true trailblazer in the game of field hockey and was an inspiration to those that followed. Her pioneering use of the mask was revolutionary and helped to change the way the game was played.
She helped to ensure that the game was safer for players and allowed them to play with more confidence. De Beus’ legacy will live on in the sport of field hockey and she will always be remembered as a pioneer and innovator.
10. Robert van der Horst
Robert Adriaan van der Horst is an esteemed Dutch former field hockey player. He specialized as a defender and is currently the assistant coach of the first men’s team of Oranje-Rood.
In his impressive career, he earned a total of 272 caps for the Dutch national team, which makes him the seventh most capped Dutch player of all time.
This is an impressive feat and a testament to his dedication to the sport of field hockey. Van der Horst was known for his defensive prowess and his ability to read the game. He was able to anticipate what was going to happen and position himself to stop opponents from scoring.
He was also known for his leadership skills, inspiring his teammates to push themselves to their limits. In addition to his playing career, Van der Horst also has a successful coaching career. He currently serves as the assistant coach of the first men’s team of Oranje-Rood.
He uses his knowledge of the game to help his team reach their potential.
His experience as a player allows him to understand the needs of his players and help them reach their goals. Overall, Robert Adriaan van der Horst has had a long and successful career in the sport of field hockey, both as a player and a coach.
His 272 caps for the Dutch national team make him the seventh most capped Dutch player of all time. His dedication to the sport has earned him the respect of his peers and fans alike.
11. Maartje Paumen
Maartje Yvonne Helene Paumen is a highly accomplished former Dutch field hockey player. She is best known for her impressive career playing for Dutch clubs Oranje Zwart and HC Den Bosch, as well as Belgian club Royal Antwerp.
Following her retirement from playing, Maartje now serves as an assistant coach for the Dutch club MOP. Maartje has achieved an impressive set of successes in her career.
She was a member of the Dutch national team that won a gold medal in the 2008 Summer Olympics, and again in the 2012 Summer Olympics. She was also part of the Dutch team that won the World Cup in 2006 and the Champions Trophy in 2009 and 2011.
In addition, Maartje was the leading scorer in the 2011 Champions Trophy and the 2012 Summer Olympics and was chosen as the most valuable player in the 2012 Summer Olympics.
Maartje’s impressive skill and success have earned her a great deal of respect, and she continues to be an influential figure in the world of Dutch field hockey.
In addition to her work as an assistant coach for MOP, she serves as a mentor for up-and-coming players, providing guidance and support to help them reach their potential. Maartje’s legacy will remain strong for many years to come.
12. Pirmin Blaak
Pirmin Blaak is a highly accomplished athlete who hails from the Netherlands. He plays field hockey professionally and is a goalkeeper for both Oranje-Rood, a Dutch national club, and the Dutch national team.
Blaak is renowned for his outstanding ability to defend against even the most experienced players, and his agility and reflexes make him one of the best goalkeepers in the sport.
He has represented his country at several international tournaments, including the 2016 Olympic Games where his team won the gold medal.
Blaak has also won several awards and accolades for his excellence in the sport, and his passion for the game is evident in his dedication to the team. His talent and dedication have made him a valuable member of both the club and the national team.
13. Maria Mattheussens-Fikkers
Maria Mattheussens-Fikkers is a renowned Dutch field hockey player who enjoyed a successful career. She was part of the national team that won a bronze medal at the 1976 World Cup and then went on to win a gold medal at the 1978 World Cup.
Her success on the field earned her a place in Dutch sporting history. Her daughter, Marieke Veenhoven-Mattheussens, has followed in her mother’s footsteps and is continuing the family tradition of excelling in field hockey.
She has competed internationally in field hockey, making the Mattheussens-Fikkers family one of the most successful in the sport. The two Mattheussens-Fikkers women have set an example for aspiring athletes in the Netherlands and around the world.
They have shown that success in the field of sports is achievable with dedication, hard work, and the right attitude. Maria and Marieke are a testament to the power of dedication and family support in achieving one’s goals.
14. Eva de Goede
Eva de Goede is an impressive Dutch field hockey player who has achieved remarkable success in the sport. She has been part of the Dutch team that achieved gold medals in the 2008, 2012, and 2020 Summer Olympics, as well as a silver medal in the 2016 Summer Olympics.
This shows her impressive consistency and dedication to the sport, as she was able to perform at the highest level and win medals at the highest level even after 8 years.
Moreover, Eva was part of the team that won the 2007 Champions Trophy, showing her prowess in team events as well. Her success in both individual and team events shows her well-roundedness as a player.
Her impressive career is a testament to her hard work and dedication in the sport.
15. Floris Jan Bovelander
Floris Jan Bovelander is a renowned former field hockey player from the Netherlands.
He represented his country on the international stage throughout his career and was a key member of the Dutch national squad that achieved an impressive feat at the 1996 Summer Olympics. At the 1996 Summer Olympics which were held in Atlanta, Bovelander and his team earned the gold medal in the field hockey tournament.
This accomplishment marked the first time that the Netherlands had won a gold medal in the sport.
Bovelander’s contributions to the team’s success were essential in this achievement, and his performance was rewarded with a medal of honor. Bovelander’s success at the Olympics was just one of his many accomplishments throughout his career.
He is a renowned figure in the Dutch field hockey community, and his record of excellence on the international stage is a testament to his talent and dedication to the sport.
Bovelander’s gold medal at the 1996 Summer Olympics will always be remembered as a symbol of his greatness in the sport.
16. Justen Blok
Justen Blok is a Dutch professional field hockey player who is currently playing as a defender for the Rotterdam club and the Dutch national team.
He is part of a long-standing tradition of Dutch field hockey players who have represented the Netherlands at the highest level of the sport. Blok started his field hockey career at a relatively young age in his hometown of Utrecht, Netherlands.
He quickly rose up the ranks and was eventually selected to play for the Dutch national team. He has since become an integral part of the team’s success, playing a key role in their victory at the 2018 FIH Pro League. At club level, Blok has also been a key player for Rotterdam.
He has helped them win the Dutch Hoofdklasse title in the 2016-17 season, as well as several other European club competitions. Justen Blok is an inspiring figure for young Dutch field hockey players.
He has shown that with hard work and dedication, it is possible to reach the highest levels of the sport. He is an example of how a talented field hockey player can make a name for themselves and represent their country in the international arena.
17. Lars Balk
Lars Balk is an incredibly talented field hockey player from the Netherlands. He has been playing the sport since a young age and his excellence has earned him a place in both Kampong, a Dutch hockey club, and the Dutch national team.
As a defender or midfielder, he is an incredibly important player in both teams. He is responsible for defending against the opposing team’s attacks and also helping to create and facilitate offensive plays.
His skill and prowess on the field make him an invaluable asset to both his club and national teams. As a result, both teams have experienced great success with Lars Balk on their side.
18. Joep de Mol
Joep Paul Eric de Mol is a Dutch field hockey player who has been playing at the highest level in the Netherlands for many years.
He currently plays for Oranje-Rood, one of the best teams in the country, and is also a member of the national team. De Mol began his field hockey career at a young age, playing in local club teams and eventually earning a spot on Oranje-Rood.
Throughout his career, he has established himself as a reliable defender, consistently helping his team to win matches.
His dedication and hard work have also been rewarded with selection to the Dutch national team, where he is an important part of the defense. De Mol’s skill and experience have made him a valuable asset to his team and to the national team.
He is an experienced leader on and off the field and is an excellent role model for younger players. He is respected by his teammates and opponents alike for his commitment to the game and his desire to be the best he can be.
19. Teun de Nooijer
Teun Floris de Nooijer is a highly accomplished field hockey player from the Netherlands. He has achieved the remarkable feat of winning two Olympic gold medals with the Dutch national squad, in 1996 and 2000. He was also part of the team in 2012.
De Nooijer currently plays for HC Bloemendaal, a club based in the Netherlands, and also plays in the Hockey India League, representing the Uttar Pradesh Wizards. His remarkable success speaks volumes of his talent and skill as a hockey player.
He is an inspiration to many young hockey players in the Netherlands and around the world.
20. Taeke Taekema
Taeke Wiebe Doekes Taekema is an accomplished Dutch field hockey player who has achieved success both domestically and internationally. He is known for his skill as a drag-flicker, a technique used to shoot the ball into the goal.
Taekema has been the member of the Dutch national team for many years and has been part of several championship-winning squads. At the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, Taekema and his team won the silver medal, a remarkable achievement considering the competition.
He has continued to play at a high level and has been part of the Dutch squad for many international tournaments. Taekema has been an important part of the Dutch field hockey scene for many years and is a respected player for his skill, dedication, and talent.
He is an excellent role model for aspiring field hockey players and his achievements are a testament to his hard work and determination.
21. Bram Lomans
Abraham Robertus Lomans is a former Dutch field hockey player who left an indelible mark on the sport. During his career, he won the gold medal at the Olympics twice, the first of which was in Atlanta.
He made his debut for the Dutch side on 16 June 1995 in a friendly match against Ireland. During his time with the team, he played 201 international matches and scored a total of 140 goals.
These impressive stats show that Lomans was a formidable player who helped the Dutch team reach great heights. He was a leader on and off the field, and his presence was felt by everyone. His dedication and skill will be remembered by fans and players alike for years to come.
22. Cees Jan Diepeveen
Cees Jan Diepeveen is a former field hockey player from the Netherlands. He had the opportunity to participate in three Summer Olympics: Los Angeles in 1984, Seoul in 1988, and Barcelona in 1992.
His greatest success in Olympic competition came in Seoul in 1988 when he was part of the Dutch field hockey team that won the bronze medal. In the Bronze Medal Game, the Netherlands team was triumphant in defeating Australia.
This was a huge moment for Cees Jan Diepeveen and a defining moment in his career as an Olympic athlete. He will be remembered for his part in the Netherlands’ success in this competition.
23. Jorrit Croon
Jorrit Croon is a Dutch field hockey player who has achieved great success in his professional career. He currently plays for Bloemendaal, a Dutch field hockey club, and the Dutch national team.
Croon is a versatile player, often taking on the role of either a midfielder or a forward. His ability to switch roles has been key to his success, as it allows him to maximize his impact on the field.
Croon is an experienced athlete, having been involved in field hockey for many years. He has played for the Dutch national team since 2012 and has proven to be an invaluable asset to the team.
He is a talented player, with excellent technical skills and an impressive work ethic. His commitment to the game and impressive skill set has made him a valuable asset to both Bloemendaal and the Dutch national team.
24. Laurien Leurink
Laurien Leurink is an incredibly talented Dutch field hockey player. She has dedicated her life to the sport, and her hard work and dedication have paid off in a big way.
Leurink has achieved great success in her career, including an impressive silver medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Her performance in the tournament was nothing short of remarkable, as she helped her team battle through to the final.
Leurink has shown tremendous skill and poise throughout her career, and she is a true role model for aspiring field hockey players.
Her commitment to excellence has been an inspiration to many, and her success serves as a reminder that hard work and dedication can lead to great success.
25. Jip Janssen
Jip Janssen is a renowned professional field hockey player from the Netherlands. He plays the position of defender for both Kampong, a Dutch hockey club, and the Dutch national team.
Janssen has been an essential part of the Dutch national team for many years and is known for his impressive defensive skills. He is an experienced player who knows how to read the game and anticipate the opponent’s next move.
His commitment and dedication to the sport have earned him a huge fan base, both in the Netherlands and abroad. Jip Janssen is a true ambassador of Dutch hockey and an example to aspiring athletes everywhere.
26. Jonas de Geus
Jonas de Geus is an accomplished field hockey player from the Netherlands. He currently plays as a midfielder for both Kampong, a club in the Netherlands, and the Dutch national team.
This means that de Geus is able to display his field hockey skills in both the domestic and international arena. At the club level, de Geus has been an integral part of the Kampong squad, helping the team to a number of successes.
His ability to control the midfield has been crucial in creating attacking opportunities for his side, as well as helping to shut down any attacks from the opposition.On the international stage, de Geus has also been an important player in the Dutch national team.
He has featured in numerous European Championships, World Cups and Olympic Games, helping the Netherlands to several major titles.
He has also been a regular in the Dutch squad at the FIH Pro League, where he has been able to showcase his talents on the biggest stage in international hockey. In conclusion, Jonas de Geus is a highly talented field hockey player who has been able to make a name for himself in both the club and international game.
His ability to control the midfield has been crucial in helping both Kampong and the Dutch national team to succeed and he is sure to continue to be an important player for both teams for many years to come.
27. Jeroen Delmee
Jeroen Petrus Maria Delmee is an impressive athlete hailing from the Netherlands. He is a field hockey player and has won Olympic medals in two consecutive Summer Olympics, in 1996 and 2000.
He was part of the Dutch team that brought home the gold in both the 1996 and 2000 Summer Olympics, making him an Olympic champion. Delmee has been playing field hockey since he was a young boy, and his hard work and dedication to the sport have paid off.
He has gone on to be one of the most successful field hockey players in the Netherlands, and his two Olympic wins are a testament to his skill and talent.
His success and achievements have been celebrated by both the Netherlands and the international field hockey community, and he is an inspiration to young players everywhere.
Delmee’s accomplishments in field hockey have helped to promote the sport of field hockey in the Netherlands, and he has served as an ambassador for the sport in his home country.
He has also been involved in several international field hockey events and tournaments and has helped to spread the love of the sport across the globe. Jeroen Petrus Maria Delmee is an excellent example of what hard work and dedication can achieve.
His two Olympic gold medals are a testament to his skill and determination, and a reminder that anything is possible if you are willing to put in the effort. He is an inspiration to athletes all over the world and a true champion of the sport of field hockey.
28. Floris Wortelboer
Floris Wortelboer is a highly-skilled Dutch field hockey player. He plays as either a defender or midfielder for the Hoofdklasse club Bloemendaal, which is one of the top teams in the Netherlands.
He is also a part of the Dutch national team, where he is a key contributor to their success. Wortelboer has a great amount of experience in the sport, with many years of playing at the highest level.
He is a great addition to any team, and his knowledge of the game helps him make the right decisions in critical moments. His defensive and midfield skills are top-notch, and he is an excellent passer and shooter.
His ability to read the game and anticipate plays makes him an invaluable asset to any team.
29. Thierry Brinkman
Thierry Brinkman is an accomplished professional field hockey player from the Netherlands. He currently plays for Bloemendaal and the Dutch national team, predominantly as a forward or midfielder.
Brinkman comes from a successful sporting family; his father Jacques was a former Dutch international, and his brother Tim is a Dutch football player. Thierry has undoubtedly benefitted from the advice and guidance of his family, using it to further his own sporting career.
His success is a testament to the Brinkman family’s athletic prowess and commitment to the sport.
30. Thijs van Dam
Thijs van Dam is a professional field hockey player from the Netherlands. He currently plays as a forward for both Rotterdam, a Dutch club team, and the Dutch national team.
He has been playing field hockey for many years and has developed into a top-level player, representing his country in international tournaments.Van Dam began his career as a youth player, playing in various clubs in the Netherlands.
He quickly rose through the ranks and was eventually selected for the national team. Since then, he has become one of the most important players on the team and has helped the Dutch team to numerous international successes.
He is known for his skills in both attack and defense and for his leadership on the field. Aside from his field hockey career, Thijs van Dam is also involved in several charitable causes. He regularly visits hospitals and schools to help spread awareness about the sport.
He is also an ambassador for the Dutch Hockey Association, promoting the sport in his home country. Thijs van Dam is an inspirational athlete. He has achieved great success in his field hockey career, both as a player and a leader, and is an excellent role model.
His commitment to his sport and to his community is admirable and he is an asset to the Dutch national team.
31. Guus Vogels
Augustinus Wilhelmus Johannes Marines Vogels is a Dutch field hockey goalie who has achieved a great deal of success in his sport.
He has won two Olympic gold medals with the Dutch national team, both at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta and at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney.
This marks a great accomplishment in Vogels’ career, as he is one of the few athletes to have won two Olympic gold medals in a single sport. Vogels has been playing field hockey since a young age and has become one of the most successful players in the Netherlands.
His skill and dedication have earned him the respect of his peers and teammates. He is respected for his leadership and ability to bring out the best in his team.
He has been an integral part of the Dutch team for many years and has been instrumental in helping them achieve success. Vogels is a true inspiration to all those who aspire to achieve success in their respective sports.
His hard work and dedication have been a major factor in his success, and he is an example of how hard work and determination can lead to great results. His two gold medals are a testament to his talent and dedication to the sport.
Vogels is an example of what can be achieved through dedication and determination.
32. Erik Jazet
Erik Alexander Jazet is an exceptional athlete who has achieved tremendous success in the sport of field hockey. He was born and raised in the Netherlands and represented his home country in a total of 308 international matches.
His career in the field of field hockey began on November 17, 1990, when he made his debut for the Netherlands against England. Jazet has also been a part of three Olympic Games and has been successful in all three, earning two gold medals and one bronze.
This impressive feat puts him among the elite athletes in the world and is a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport.
He has achieved a great deal of recognition for his achievements and has become an inspiration to aspiring field hockey players around the world. Jazet’s success is a shining example of the dedication it takes to become an elite athlete.
His example is one to look up to, and his accomplishments should be celebrated. He has made an excellent contribution to the field of field hockey and will continue to be remembered as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
33. Jacques Brinkman
Jacques Brinkman is a renowned Dutch field hockey player who achieved great success in his career. He is most famous for having won two gold medals with the Dutch national field hockey squad: at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta and at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney.
His achievements in field hockey have cemented him as one of the greats of the sport. Brinkman’s success with the Dutch national team began with his first gold medal win in Atlanta in 1996. This was a huge feat for the Netherlands and a testament to Brinkman’s talent as a player.
Brinkman followed up his success by leading the Dutch team to a second gold medal win in Sydney in 2000.
This was the first time the Netherlands had achieved this feat, and it was largely thanks to Brinkman’s leadership. Since retiring from field hockey, Brinkman has gone on to become an active member in the field hockey community.
He has coached and mentored young players, as well as serving as a commentator for field hockey events.
He has also been recognized as an ambassador for the sport, and his achievements are an inspiration to many. Jacques Brinkman’s career as a field hockey player is an example of hard work and dedication paying off.
His two gold medals are a testament to his talent and leadership and serve as a reminder of the success that can be achieved through dedication and passion.
34. Sander van der Weide
Sander Petrus Henricus van der Weide is a Dutch field hockey player who achieved great success in his career. He was a member of the Dutch team that won the gold medal at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney.
This was a great accomplishment for Van der Weide and his team, as they brought home a medal for their country. Van der Weide made his debut in the sport on 13 November 1996 in a friendly match against Germany in Eindhoven.
Since then, he has built a successful career in the sport. He has represented his country at the 2000 Olympics, as well as at several other international events.
He has also been part of numerous hockey teams in the Dutch hockey leagues and has had a successful run with them. Van der Weide has been able to use his skills to help his team to victory.
He is a great defender and has been able to use his defensive abilities to shut down opposing teams.
His ability to read the game and anticipate his opponent’s next move has been a great asset to his team. Van der Weide’s accomplishments on the field have been recognized and praised by many around the world.
His success in the sport has made him an inspiration for aspiring hockey players. His story of hard work and dedication has shown that success in any field is achievable.
35. Seve van Ass
Severiano “Seve” Boris van Ass is a talented Dutch field hockey player with a prestigious career. He currently plays as a midfielder or forward for the professional team HGC, as well as the Dutch national team.
Seve is a prominent figure in the field hockey world, both due to his accomplishments and the fact that he is the son of well-known Dutch field hockey coach Paul van Ass. Seve’s career has been marked by many accomplishments, including participating in the 2016 Summer Olympics.
This event was a significant milestone in his career, as it is considered a great honor to be a part of the Olympic team. Furthermore, Seve has been praised by his peers and coaches for his outstanding work ethic and skill level.
His commitment to the sport of field hockey and perseverance have been a major factor in his success. Overall, Severiano “Seve” Boris van Ass is a shining example of what dedication and hard work can accomplish.
He has certainly made a name for himself in the world of field hockey, and his success is a testament to the importance of striving for excellence.
36. Carlien Dirkse van den Heuvel
Carlien Dirkse van den Heuvel is a Dutch field hockey player who was chosen to compete in the 2012 Summer Olympics for the Netherlands women’s national field hockey team. During the competition, she was one of the ten LGBT Olympians who went on to medal in London.
This accomplishment was noted by Fox News, which praised her for her success. Van den Heuvel is a proud advocate for LGBT rights and has not shied away from speaking about her identity.
She is a strong role model for young athletes, especially those in the LGBT community, and her success at the Olympics serves as an inspiration for them. Her outspoken nature and commitment to inclusivity has helped to make the world of sports a more accepting place.
Van den Heuvel’s success at the Olympics serves as a reminder that everyone, regardless of their sexuality, should be given the opportunity to pursue their dreams. Her outstanding performance is an example of how being true to yourself can lead to great achievements.
In this way, she has been a leader in breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive environment.
37. Marloes Keetels
Marloes Keetels is a Dutch field hockey player who has gained international recognition for her skill and success. She has been playing for the Netherlands women’s national field hockey team since 2013 and has been a pivotal part of their success since then.
Keetels was part of the Netherlands team that won the 2014 Women’s Hockey World Cup, an impressive feat for any athlete. Her dedication to the sport and her country has been evident in her performances over the years, and she is an athlete to be admired.
Her hard work and commitment has earned her the respect of her teammates and coaches alike, and she is considered one of the best players in the world.
It is thanks to her skill and determination that the Netherlands has been able to rise to the top of the international hockey scene.
38. Ties Kruize
Ties Kruize is a Dutch former field hockey player who competed in two Olympic Games. At the 1972 Olympics, he placed fourth in the competition, and at the 1984 Olympics, he finished in sixth place. In 1973, he achieved a great success, becoming world champion.
Ten years later, in 1983, he added another title to his list of accomplishments, becoming European champion. After the 1986 Hockey World Cup in London, he retired from international competition.
Throughout his career, Kruize achieved a great deal of success, and his accomplishments are still remembered to this day.
39. Merel de Blaeij
Merel de Blaeij is a professional field hockey player from the Netherlands. She was one of the members of the Dutch national field hockey team that participated in the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.
During the tournament, she competed in the women’s event, representing her country in the sport. Merel has been a member of the national team since 2011 and has since been part of the Dutch team that won the European Championship in 2012, as well as the World League Final in 2013.
She has also been part of the Dutch team that has won several international tournaments and has been a regular player in the Dutch national team since then. Merel has been a part of the Dutch team since she was a youngster and her hard work and dedication to the sport has paid off.
She has been a part of the team since 2011 and has been an integral part of the team’s success.
Her experience and skill has earned her a key role in the national team and is a major asset for the Dutch team. Merel de Blaeij is an example of how hard work and dedication can lead to success.
Her success at the 2012 Summer Olympics proves that she is one of the top players in the world and has been a major part of the Dutch team’s success. She is a great role model for aspiring athletes and a reminder that hard work and dedication can lead to success.
40. Paul Litjens
Paul Litjens is an iconic figure in the history of field hockey. He was a member of the Netherlands national team from 1978 to 1994, and is renowned for his impressive record of achievement.
During his time on the team, he competed in 177 matches and scored a total of 268 goals, setting an international record that stood until 2004. Litjens was a powerful and consistent scorer, and his ability to make strong offensive plays made him a valuable asset to the team.
He was also an excellent defensive player and was often relied upon to shut down opposing teams’ attacks. Although he retired over twenty years ago, Litjens’ legacy still endures, and he is widely considered one of the greatest field hockey players of all time.
41. Xan de Waard
Xan de Waard is a highly accomplished field hockey player from the Netherlands. She has an impressive record of 150 international matches for the Netherlands women’s national field hockey team.
Her impressive achievements have seen her become a key part of the Dutch team that won the 2014 Women’s Hockey World Cup.
This is a remarkable feat for any athlete and reflects the skill and determination of De Waard. She is highly respected within the field hockey community and her success is a testament to her commitment and talent.
She is an example of what dedication and hard work can bring to an athlete. De Waard has made a huge contribution to the success of the Dutch team, and her name will be remembered for many years to come.
42. Pien Sanders
Pien Sanders is a Dutch field hockey player currently playing for both Den Bosch and the Dutch national team. She is a defender, the position responsible for preventing the opposition from scoring goals. Sanders has been playing for both teams since 2018.
She has been instrumental in the success of both teams and has been praised for her defensive play and tactical awareness. At the international level, Sanders has represented the Netherlands in the 2020 FIH Pro League, the 2020 Women’s FIH Champions Trophy, and the 2020 FIH Hockey Series Finals.
She has also been a part of the Dutch team that won the EuroHockey Nations Championship in 2019. In addition to her international accolades, Sanders has been a key contributor to both Den Bosch and the Dutch national team.
She has helped Den Bosch to the semi-finals of the Dutch Hoofdklasse in 2020 and has been a consistent presence in the team’s defensive line.
With the national team, Sanders has been a vital part of the Netherlands’ success in the last two years and has been praised for her ability to make crucial defensive plays and disrupt the opposition’s attack. Sanders’ accomplishments speak volumes to her skill as a player.
She has established herself as a reliable defender at both the club and international level and has been a key part of the success of both Den Bosch and the Netherlands’ national team.
43. Josine Koning
Josine Koning is a talented field hockey player from the Netherlands, known for her skill as a goalkeeper. She currently plays with Den Bosch, a club team in the Netherlands, as well as with the national team.
In 2018, she was part of the Dutch team that competed in the Women’s Hockey World Cup. Josine is renowned for her ability to block the goal and make incredible saves. She is a valuable asset to both her club team and the national team.
Her presence on the field is a major asset and her skills have been praised by many. Her determination and hard work has led to her success in the sport of field hockey and her accomplishments are an inspiration to many.
44. Naomi van As
Naomi van As is an exceptional athlete who has achieved great success in the sport of field hockey. She hails from the Netherlands and plays forward/midfield for the Dutch club MHC Laren.
Naomi has been playing field hockey since 2003 and is an integral part of the team. Naomi’s international career began when she made her debut for the Netherlands national team on 20 June 2003.
During that match, she put her skills to the test and proved her worth against South Africa.
Since then, she has gone on to be an invaluable asset for her team and has helped them to achieve several titles and trophies, including a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics. Naomi is a highly respected player in the Netherlands and her accomplishments are celebrated by fans and athletes alike.
She has been awarded the Oranje Award, which is the highest Dutch sports honor. With her impressive career and contributions to the sport, Naomi is an inspiration to aspiring hockey players and an example of what hard work and dedication can achieve.
Conclusion
The Netherlands has some of the best field hockey players in the world. With their long-standing history of success in the sport, the Dutch have produced some truly remarkable players over the years.
From the legendary Ties Kruize to the modern-day stars in Maartje Paumen and Naomi van As, the Netherlands has a proud tradition of excellence in the sport.
With the right training and dedication, the Dutch will continue to produce some of the finest field hockey players in the world.
