In this section we give talents from the Dutch Under 18 and Under 16 a place in the spotlight. Who are they, what is their motivation and how do they see the future? This week Precious Oud (15), Spits at MOP MO16-1.
Where have you all played?
Precious: ‘I started in the F’s at hockey club Vlijmen. When I got to the D I wanted to play higher. That was not possible at my own club, so I made a selection. First at Den Bosch, but I didn’t join the team there. At MOP it worked. I have enjoyed playing hockey there for five years now.’
What is the difference between club hockey and Dutch U16?
“The level is a bit higher and it is also more serious. You play with better teammates from whom you can learn a lot. Being able to play for the Netherlands is also a bit more exciting. Especially when you hear the national anthem. That makes it official. There is also a difference in the training. With the Dutch team we have a double training on Monday. With my own club I train three times a week. I have to miss Monday training, because then I have that double training.’
Do you have rituals before or during a match?
‘Yes, i have that. I always eat a banana before a race. In addition, I always do a handshake with my teammate Marieke Timmerman. After the yell we meet for a while. Then we clap our hands and give each other a hug. That brings luck.’
Who is your hockey buddy?
‘My hockey buddy is Frédérique Vernooij. She also plays in MOP MO16-1 and therefore also in Dutch U16. Not only is she on my team, but we are also in each other’s class. I’ve known her for four years now through high school. We really are best friends.’
Do you have to leave a lot for hockey?
‘Yes, sometimes, but that is a matter of good planning. It was my birthday when we played the three-country tournament. I had planned to celebrate my birthday over the weekend, but I had to change that. They take it very seriously at school. On Monday I miss hours due to the double training, but I can make up for that at other times. Sometimes it’s difficult because I can’t come to a party. Fortunately, everyone is handling it well.’
Who is your favorite major league player?
‘I have two favorite players. I really like Felice Albers. She has a nice acceleration and also knows when to use it. She provides good crosses and can hit the target herself. I also like Frédérique Matla. She has the ability to score and is always in the right place.’
Photo: Stefanie van Gool
Which techniques would you like to master better?
“I would like to improve my backhand stroke. When I get into position to shoot with my backhand I almost always turn to my forehand. Hopefully I can score more if I have a good backhand. I would also like to scoop better. That’s especially nice when we’re under pressure. Then you can always lose the ball.’
What do you excel at?
‘I can be recognized by my speed and my forehand stroke. I can also put pressure on the ball well. I try to disturb the opponent as much as possible and stay in a duel. When I’ve taken the ball, I use my gear or look for a pass.’
What is your best hockey experience?
“I actually have two. The first is the three-country tournament with U15 in Lille. I played my first international match there. That was very exciting, but a lot of fun. We won then, so that makes it a lot more fun. The second was a year ago now. Then I was allowed to join O16, while I was still in O15. We played a practice match against SCHC MA1 at Schaerweijde. It was a nice experience, because I had also scored. I shot the ball over the keeper via the rebound.’
