Marijn van der Ven

My Soccer Background

I am a soccer player with a strong sense of the game, I am tactically aware of my surroundings and my teammates what helps me to take decisions on the ball easily. My vision and decision-making on the field is good what helps me to maintain possession for my team. My ball control is one of my standout qualities, especially my first touch, this allows me to keep the game fast and push our team forward. I excel at creating scoring opportunities for my team, whether through a precise pass or by driving forward with the ball at my feet.

I am a player who is highly reliable in possession, with great dribbling skills that enable me to keep the ball in tight spaces and maintain control under pressure. Additionally, I am a true team player, always on the move, both offensively and defensively. My relentless pressing helps me win the ball back often, leading to key opportunities for my team.

While my primary position is as a number 8, I am versatile enough to perform effectively as a number 6 or a number 10, adapting my style to what the team needs in different situations.

I started playing football at SCH '44 in Harmelen from the age of 7 until I was 11. After that, I joined PVCV, one of the best amateur clubs in the Netherlands. I have been playing there from the U12s up to the present in the U19s. In the U14s, I was scouted for a trial with the professional club FC Den Bosch, and in the U15s, I was selected for the preliminary squad of the KNVB West 1 regional team, which consists of the best amateur players from the western Netherlands.

At PVCV, we have played numerous friendly matches against professional clubs and have often competed against them in our league. For instance, in the U16s, we were in the same league as FC Eindhoven, Fortuna Sittard, Helmond Sport, and FC Dordrecht, finishing in 3rd place. In the U17s, we competed in the same league as Sparta Rotterdam and became league champions. Currently, in the U19s, we are once again competing in the league with Fortuna Sittard.

Why College Soccer

I want to play college soccer in America because soccer is my greatest passion. The combination of high-level soccer and quality education in the U.S. is incredibly appealing to me. Visiting the USA has always been a dream of mine, so this opportunity is perfect—it allows me to pursue what I love the most, playing soccer, while also getting a degree. Additionally, it offers a unique chance to experience life in a country that fascinates me. Beyond soccer, it’s an incredible opportunity for personal and professional growth, both as a soccer player and as an person.