In this article we tell you more about student-athlete Bastiaan Donkers. In addition, below you will find the video in which Bastiaan tells more about himself.
Sports: Soccer
Entry semester: Fall 2026
This is Bastiaan Donkers, a versatile and intelligent soccer player from the Netherlands. Bastiaan is a left-legged defender and midfielder currently playing for DBS U19-1, active in the premier league and 1st division. With his calmness on the ball, strong game insight and tactical flexibility, he has developed into an important link between defense and midfield.
Bastiaan has been playing for DBS since he was five years old and went through all the youth teams within the club. From the age of eight he played in the highest team of his age category. Over the years he and his teams won several championships, including several big league titles. At the age of 15, his team won both the big league and the 6th division competition. He remained successful in the following years as well, again with multiple big league championships, including right in his first season with the U19-1.
In his younger years, Bastiaan played mainly as a left midfielder and left fielder. On his own initiative, he later made the switch to the left back position, a choice that helped him develop into a modern, attacking defender. Since last season, he has additionally been deployed regularly as a defensive midfielder, a role in which his coaches have great confidence in him. His versatility allows him to adapt tactically easily and be of value to the team in multiple positions.
What typifies Bastiaan as a player is his calmness and overview in possession of the ball. He reads the game well, recognizes spaces quickly and makes smart choices under pressure. His passing is accurate and neat, while his crosses and corners regularly create dangerous situations. In addition, he supports the attacking play with overlaps and helps from the build-up to set up the game in a controlled way from behind.
Mentally, Bastiaan also stands out positively. He is known for his perseverance, loyalty and team-oriented mentality. He always continues to work hard, supports his teammates and consistently puts the collective interest above his own performance. This attitude makes him not only a reliable player, but also a valuable teammate within any selection.
In addition to his achievements in youth soccer, Bastiaan regularly gains experience on senior teams, where he is often part of the starting lineup. Playing against physically stronger and more experienced opponents helps him develop further on a tactical and physical level. Meanwhile, he has also managed to score his first goal at senior level.
Internationally, Bastiaan gained experience during tournaments in Germany, Belgium, Spain and several tournaments within the Netherlands. With his team he achieved second place in both 2024 and 2025 during international tournaments in Germany. These experiences further strengthened his adaptability and competitive spirit.
Besides soccer, Bastiaan values his education. By combining top sports and school for many years, he has developed discipline, responsibility and time management. He is motivated to further develop both academically and athletically within an ambitious and challenging environment.
“I am a calm and positive person who always works hard and thinks about the team.” – Bastiaan Donkers
Would you like to see more from Bastiaan? Check out the video below where he introduces himself.