Last season was actually my first playing season with Nic./Alfa-college…..where as previously I was member of Asko Assen. I was selected for the Dutch National team for youth up to 18 years. It was my first time I was considered for a National team. We played two international games, in and against Belgium. I’ve never played a game to a foreign team before, which made this event very special for me.

In April 2009 the U19 Junior World cup took place in Leeuwarden. We played against South-Africa and India. I have never realised that korfball was a National sports in these countries as well. The level was not outstanding, but the pleasure and fun of the teams was remarkable. The joy exceeded the drive to win. Specifically nice about the tournament were the personal contacts with the other players, especially with the members of the Chinese Taipei team. As their spectators we were in favour of them, and the other way around they supported us in our games with other teams. What caught my eye during their match was their super speed, their high jumps, their drive and fanaticism. In the end we became world champion, without any competition in the games, even in the finals against Belgium. This moment was unforgettable, becoming World Champion.

On February 5 and 6th of this year I joined the Youth World Cup in Apeldoorn as member of the Dutch team up to 23 years. The first day we successfully passed because we easily won the first three games. The semi-finals we played against Belgium. Relatively easy we passed this match to the finals against Chinese Taipei. The Taiwanese players were of course again very fanatic in their game. In the end a decisive ‘golden goal’ was needed. Chinese Taipei was the first one hitting the goal, making them the winners of the Youth World Cup. The story goes that the Dutch teams are the easy winners, but this tournament proved the opposite. The Dutch team did not give it all, contrary to the Taiwanese team. Korfball is further developing in other countries as well. Which is not only more fun, but competition makes you stronger as well.

Ricky Wu, from the Chinese Tapei team, transferred to the selection of Nic./Alfa-college, which is my team as well. It would be great if these transfers happen more often.

I wish all participants lots of success and joy!
Regards, Rianne Echten