The college football season has kicked off for most universities once again. This signifies that many of our own football players will be giving their all in the coming months, battling for victories. Over the past summer and in recent weeks, numerous young football talents have made their way to the United States to embark on their college adventure. These are all promising players who are at the outset of their first ‘real’ season.
In this article, we spotlight some of these newcomers, the ‘rookies’ we believe have the potential to surprise everyone in the upcoming season.
“While some of them already got some playing time last fall to get acclimated, it’s now time for the real deal. We have full confidence in our top players and are certain they will shine. In this article, we introduce you to five of these promising talents. Curious to know who they are and where they play? Keep reading!
Jim Wagenaar
University: Northwest Nazarene Position: Forward Division/Conference: NCAA Division 2
Last summer, Jim made the switch from FC Den Bosch to The Nighthawks. With a significant number of goals already scored for FC Den Bosch, it was time for a fresh challenge. Jim is a lethal finisher in the 18-yard box, comfortable on the ball, and maintains excellent awareness. His preferred foot is the right one, but he’s also capable of scoring with his left.
He wasted no time in showcasing his skills in his debut against Chaminade, scoring twice and providing one assist. Jim’s goal is to become a champion in Division 2 and, as a forward, to contribute as much as possible with his goals.
We expect that Jim will definitely continue along this path, which is why, as far as we’re concerned, he’s a true “one to watch.” We’ll be keeping an eye on you, Jim!
Thomas Kleinpenning
University: Young Harris Position: Midfield Division/Conference: NCAA Division 2
Speaking of a “one to watch,” Thomas trained with De Graafschap’s first team, and we completely understand why. A midfielder with an outstanding left foot, converting numerous free kicks into goals and serving his teammates with precision.
Furthermore, Thomas is incredibly composed on the ball, possesses a good burst of speed, and is comfortable in tight spaces. In America, he represents Young Harris’ soccer team, where he recently found the net with a long-range strike.
We are extremely curious to see how Thomas will perform with the Mountain Lions and will definitely be keeping a close eye on his progress!
Jan Quispel
University: Butler Position: Midfield Division/Conference: NCAA Division 1
Jan is eager to combine top-level sports with his studies, which is why he traded FC Emmen for an adventure in America. At Butler Bulldogs, the ambidextrous midfielder aims to make his mark on the team’s style of play, where he will join forces with Student-Athlete Joost de Schutter.
Jan is fast, possesses excellent field awareness, and accelerates easily in open spaces with the ball. He has already played his first three matches, providing an assist in his debut and completing the full 90 minutes against Western Michigan.
His primary goal is to further develop both on and off the field, and we will be eagerly following these developments. Jan is, in our opinion a real “one to watch.”
Jelle van Deijck & Wessel Sprangers
University
University: Gonzaga Position Jelle: Midfield/Defence Position Wessel: Goalkeeper Division/Conference: NCAA Division 1
Jelle and Wessel will both be representing Gonzaga University in the upcoming season. The Bulldogs compete in the First Division. Jelle often played as a defensive midfielder at FC Eindhoven and stood out for his defensive awareness, shooting ability, and excellent passing. Despite tempting opportunities at FC Eindhoven, Jelle chose to combine high-level football with his studies.
Wessel is a goalkeeper with fantastic reflexes, athletic ability, and, furthermore, he’s a true penalty stopper. After 92 matches with Jong Willem II, he made the switch from the Tilburg club to Dongen’s first team. Wessel also aspired to combine top-level sports with his studies, which is why he chose to seize his opportunities in America.
Both men will do everything in their power to have a successful season with the Gonzaga Bulldogs. Winning the first two matches is a promising start, and we anticipate that Jelle and Wessel will continue this trajectory with the team and have an outstanding season. We’ll be keeping a close eye on our “two to watch!”
Of course, these aren’t the only stars from Slamstox on the soccer field who will shine in the coming months. We are confident that all our other soccer players will also deliver excellent performances. So, make sure to keep an eye on our social media channels, not only to follow these five standouts but also to see our other soccer players shine.
Do you dream of going to America to combine soccer and studies? Don’t hesitate to fill out our introductory form. We are ready to get in touch with you and discuss the possibilities.
