Name: Rixt van der Werff
Born: 22 Dec. 2002
Sport: Women’s tennis
School: University of Colorado – Boulder
Placed: Fall 2024
Rixt van der Werff is a talented tennis player from the Netherlands who achieved success at a young age. She became Dutch U16 doubles champion, runner-up in singles, ranked No. 1 in the national youth rankings and won several ITF junior titles. Despite these successes, Rixt chose to take a break from tennis after her youth period. Still, her love for the sport remained. After a period without competition, she decided to pick up the racket again – with one clear goal: to combine sport and study at a high level in the United States.
The move to America
After finishing high school and starting a college education in the Netherlands, Rixt was ready for a new challenge. Despite starting relatively late on the track, with the help of Slamstox she managed to make her transfer to the University of Colorado – a strong NCAA Division 1 school– in no time. There she was immediately accepted onto the varsity team and began her studies, fully supported by a full athletic scholarship.
The transition to the American system went surprisingly smoothly. Rixt immediately felt at home within the team and began her adventure with confidence, ambition and a renewed passion for tennis.
Slamstox & the process
The process had its challenges. Because Rixt had graduated from high school some time ago, there were complicated issues surrounding her NCAA eligibility. Together with Slamstox, these obstacles were tackled step by step. Thanks to close contact with coaches, administrative support and fast switching, everything was arranged on time and Rixt could still realize her American dream.
“Rixt has been an incredible addition to our team. She fits well within the group, works hard, and has beaten some strong players in her first year. We are excited for the future!”
– Coach University of Colorado
An eventful first year for Rixt
Although Rixt started her first year well, she ran into unexpected physical setbacks during the season. First she struggled with illnesses and painful blisters in the fall season, and then a bigger blow followed:
“In March, I found out that I had a stress fracture as well as a piece of bone that had become loose in my foot. I had to have surgery to remove the bone and have a screw placed for recovery. Meanwhile, I’m still in a brace and on crutches for a while, but I’m making progress – one step at a time.”
The injury period brought mental challenges, but also gave Rixt new insights:
“It has been mentally tough, but also eye-opening. The lack of exercise has actually made me appreciate the little things more. I am tremendously grateful to CU and everyone who has helped me through this first year: my loving teammates, coaches, medical staff – the support on and off the court means everything.” – Rixt van der Werff
Result
Despite the obstacles, Rixt made a flying start to her college career. She found the joy in tennis again, is fully participating in a strong team, as well as continuing her academic development in an international environment. An inspiring example of perseverance, gratitude and growth.
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