Marijn van Wandelen

I am Marijn, 24 years old, residing just outside of Amsterdam. Starting this season, I am actively working as a scout at +31 Sports. Throughout this season, I will be the eyes, ears, and point of contact for all footballers who are considering taking the step towards the United States. My football journey began at the age of 6, as a goalkeeper for RKDES, followed by two years at Jong Aalsmeer United, and then a remarkable 10-year stint at Argon. During my time at Argon, I progressed through all the highest youth teams, all the way up to the first team, starting from JO15-1.

Amidst the pandemic and while completing my Ajax internships, I embarked on the college adventure after graduating from my Sport Management & Entrepreneurship program. In August 2022, I found myself at the University of Illinois Springfield. We made it to the final 16 in America, but true to Dutch tradition, our dream shattered after a missed penalty. Partly due to an (insufficiently healed) wrist injury, I returned to the Netherlands after just one semester, only to head back to the States in the summer of 2023, playing for Miami Dutch Lions during the summer break.

This season, I'm a part of the first team at FC Aalsmeer, competing in the 1st class. On the side, I run my own goalkeeper school, Born To Play Goalkeepers, offering two courses in Aalsmeer and Amsterdam. These courses integrate goalkeepers with players from Born To Play, helping them progress in their development every week. I also provide numerous private training sessions to goalkeepers. During the week, I work as an event manager for the Ajax Foundation, involved in community projects at elementary schools.

I've been active as a goalkeeper coach for almost a decade, gaining experience in various goalkeeper schools, several amateur clubs in the region, and two years within the youth academy of Ajax. My challenge at +31sports is to inspire talented players with the same 'American Dream' for this fantastic opportunity. I do this by sharing my own experiences, providing all the necessary information, and ultimately devising a plan where YOU can find a place that works best for you.

I can attest that my time in America has significantly contributed to my personal growth. This is why I wish everyone this significant yet incredibly rewarding step outside their comfort zone, leading to personal growth, a diploma, a wealth of top-level sports experience, many new friendships, and countless cherished memories! So, if you are enthusiastic and curious about the possibilities, feel free to contact me via Instagram, and who knows, we might meet soon!