In this article, we’ll tell you more about student-athlete Sem Vaessen. At the bottom, you’ll also find a video in which Sem talks more about himself.
Sport: Men’s Tennis
Entry semester: Fall 2027
This is Sem Vaessen, a physically strong and resilient tennis player from the Netherlands. Sem is known as a fast counterpuncher with a solid defensive foundation, excellent stamina, and a never-give-up attitude.
On the court, one of Sem’s greatest strengths is his speed and court coverage. He’s able to return many difficult shots, often forcing his opponents to play one more shot each time. Moreover, from defensive positions, he is well-equipped to turn the point around and take the initiative himself.
Sem also uses his slice effectively to change the rhythm of a rally and create opportunities to move to the net. His strong physical conditioning and mental resilience help him maintain a high level of play even during long and physically demanding matches.
To further develop his skills, Sem trains at Performance Center Venlo, a training facility for a select group of young athletes. There, he works on strength, conditioning, and the mental aspects of his game, among other things.
Sem also sets high standards for himself academically. He is enrolled in the VWO program and expects to graduate in June 2027. He is looking for a competitive college tennis program in the United States where he can combine his athletic development with his studies.
“I want to keep pushing myself physically and mentally and become a stronger, more well-rounded tennis player.” – Sem Vaessen
Would you like to see more of Sem? Watch the video below, in which he introduces himself and talks more about his tennis background and ambitions.