As the final stages of the current FIH Hockey Pro League season approach (starting from 13 June), let us hear from the participating teams. Today, the Netherlands’ Co-Captains Marijn Veen and Renée van Laarhoven share their thoughts.
– You’ve now completed two Pro League blocks. Looking back, how do you evaluate them from a sporting perspective?We look back very positively on both blocks. We won all our played matches, so from a sporting point of view it was a strong period. Our level of play was good, and we’re clearly making progress in the themes we’re working on as a team.It was a pity that the second match against Argentina was cancelled due to the severe weather, because we always really enjoy playing against them.
– The Pro League has already taken you across two continents this season. What is that like for you as players?I had been to both countries before, but in China we were in a different place than where I’d been previously. China has a culture and traditions that are very different from what we’re used to, which makes it extra special to be able to go there for your sport.On the other hand, it’s a lot of travelling in the winter, across two continents, with everything that comes with it: different climates, different time zones. It’s a unique experience to share with the team. There’s also a teambuilding aspect to it, because you’re not just going away for a quick week. When you spend a longer period travelling together, you naturally grow closer as a team.
– The next Pro League block will be in your home country, this time in Rotterdam. Are the Pro League matches at home different from the others?Absolutely! You have the Dutch fans behind you, and in the Netherlands the stands are almost always full. It’s also really special that your friends, family and other loved ones can come and watch you play. Hockey is an important part of my life, something I put a lot of time and energy into. The people around you are part of that too, so it feels extra special when matches are close to home and they can be there. Different people come to watch me: friends, family, my boyfriend and that makes it even more fun.
– Ticket sales for the next block (13–21 June in Rotterdam) are going very well. Do you have a message for the fans?Come and watch us in Rotterdam! We’re going to give everything we have to play great hockey and achieve good results. We can really use your support. For us as players, it gives an extra boost of energy!
– This season, the winner of the Pro League earns an Olympic ticket. Is that something the team is already thinking about? If so, how does that show?Yes, Raoul (Ehren, ed.) mentions it often during the Pro League. As a team, we really want to go to LA in 2028. The fact that we already have the chance to secure that in 2026 is definitely something that’s on our minds.
