Name: Raf Hendriks
Born: Apr. 25, 2001
Sports: Swimming
School: Saint Cloud State University
Placed: Fall 2020
About Raf
For Raf Hendriks it was clear from the beginning: he wanted to study as well as continue his swimming career at the very highest level. The combination of sport and study was essential to him – but at the same time it had to be financially feasible. With a strong academic background as well as an impressive sports profile, Raf began his search for the perfect place in America. With the ultimate dream of continuing to develop as a top athlete and eventually participating in the 2028 Olympics.
The choice of St. Cloud State
Despite interest from several Division 1 universities, Raf deliberately chose St. Cloud State University in Minnesota, a Division 2 university. Not the status of a possible Division 1 university was the deciding factor, but the click with the coach, the strong team and the facilities on and around the pool. A choice that proved more than successful: Raf quickly grew into one of the most dominant swimmers in NCAA Division 2.
His accomplishments speak volumes. Raf was a seven-time GLIAC Conference Champion and a five-time NCAA All-American. In March 2025, he even placed second at the NCAA Championships, an achievement that underscores how hard he has developed in recent years. He also continued to compete at the highest level in the Netherlands: he became a three-time Dutch Senior Champion. Raf combines his sporting successes with a strong academic career within his Finance studies.
Slamstox as a link to success
Slamstox accompanied Raf during the entire route to America – from the paperwork to choosing the right university and maximizing his scholarship. The cooperation became even closer when Raf also started working at Slamstox himself: during the summer, he interned in the swimming department, where he helped other athletes with their route to America.
Results
The results don’t lie. Raf received a full athletic and academic scholarship, became a fixture on the varsity team at St. Cloud State University, broke multiple records, stood on the podium of the NCAA Championships and combined it all with academic success. The transition to the American system took some getting used to, but Raf soon felt at home. The intensity of the training life, the close-knit team culture and the balance between sports and studies allow him to perform at his best.
“Slamstox did a great job helping me find the perfect place in America. It’s great here to be able to swim on a team where everyone keeps improving each other so fanatically.” – Raf Hendriks
Are you interested in college swimming in the U.S. just like Raf? Schedule a free introduction!
