Julie van de Veen

My soccer background

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When I was 9 years old, I started playing soccer in an Under 13 mixed team where we became champion twice. I was always in a higher age group and when I was in the Under 13 mixed team, I also trained with the Under 15 girls’ team where the trainer had professional footballing experience. After the Under 13 I switched to the Under 15 girls’ team in first class at 12 years old, and soon moved to the Under 17 in first class. In both age groups we also became champions. In the under 17 we played a tournament where we got first place after an exciting penalty shootout where I was the goalie and captain. When I was 15 years old, I started playing two matches a week because I also became regular player for the Under 20 who played in the highest class level while also playing for the Under 17.

My first experience in goal was in the first year that I started playing. We didn’t have a regular goalie, so I switched with two other players each game and I turned out to really like the position, but I still also liked playing as a striker, so I played both. In the Under 15 I began sharing the goalkeeping position with another player, so each game I played one half in goal and one half as a striker. This was also the case in the Under 17 where I also played both positions as regular in the Under 20. Now I am 16 years old and have since chosen to play as a goalie full-time.

I can play with both my left and my right foot, but my main foot is my left. Because I have a lot of experience as a striker, I am technically good and comfortable with the ball at my feet. I am also not afraid to get hurt so you will see me doing everything I can to get the ball away from the goal.

Why I want to play college soccer
I always had the dream of going to America and I love playing soccer, so when I heard I can play soccer in America I felt like it was my chance to make my dream come true. The thing that attracts me the most about playing soccer in America is the combinations of sports and academics and the sports mentality. I really want to experience American sports culture, which I miss here in the Netherlands. It is also a great opportunity to develop myself both physically and personally. I am prepared to help my team become the best and win prices.

My ideal school would be one with a great sport mentality while also knowing the importance of education. Being challenged while also having fun is what I am mostly looking for. A social atmosphere is also very important.

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