Name: Noëlle Huijser
Date of birth: Jul. 14, 2006
Sport: Track & Field
University: Houston Christian University
Placed: Fall 2024
Noëlle Huijser is the perfect example of someone who finds her passion later in life, but manages to rise to the top at lightning speed. Until the age of 15 she played field hockey, but from 2021 she decided to focus entirely on athletics and that turned out to be a hit. Soon she was allowed to compete at the NK U16, where she finished 9th in the 800 meters. An impressive achievement for someone who had only just started.
Since then, Noelle has made great strides. She placed 4th at the NK U18 indoor (2023) and 5th at the outdoor championships (2022). During the 2022-2023 indoor season, she was even 7th in the U18 national rankings with a time of 2:18.15 in the 800 meters. That rapid development created one clear desire: to continue her growth in the United States.
From VWO to track and field in America
After completing her VWO in June 2024, Noelle chose Houston Christian University. Here she was able to combine her academic ambitions with her athletic goals. She wanted to continue to perform at a high level, gain international experience AND receive an athletic scholarship. Those goals have all come true.
A smooth transition to America
The transition to the American system was surprisingly smooth. Noelle felt at home on campus from day one, immediately had nice people around her and enjoyed her new surroundings. Of course there were some minor adjustments in the beginning, such as getting used to roommates and American food, but by now she is completely accustomed and has found her place completely.
Sports growth and medals
The move to America has brought Noelle a lot on the sports front. She trains intensively, makes nice progress and has taken her performance to a higher level. Despite an intense season in the U.S., in the summer of 2025 she still decided to participate in the NK U20 in the Netherlands. There she showed that she is not only versatile, but also rock solid: in the 2000 meter steeplechase, she immediately grabbed the bronze medal.
The Role of Slamstox
Slamstox played an important role in making the right choice. Thanks to personal contact, guidance in the administrative process and advice on scholarships and universities, Noelle was well supported. Extra valuable was that another Slamstox student-athlete, Eline Mast, was already at Houston Christian University. Noelle was able to call her, which provided additional confidence and a good feeling.
An inspiring example
Noëlle Huijser shows that you can get far even without early specialization. Her passion, drive and rapid development make her an inspiring example for young athletes considering the move to America. Her story proves that it is never too late to chase your dreams, as long as you go flat out.
Like Noelle, do you want to study and play sports in America? Then schedule a free introductory meeting now!
