Name: Tess Spaansen
Born: Jun. 6, 2006
Sport: (beach) volleyball
University: Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi

Position: Defender & blocker

Placed: Fall 2024

Double talent: beach and indoor
Tess played indoor as outside hitter with Dinto in the Dutch Top Division, and is active with Beach Team The Hague, where she plays both as a defender and as a blocker in the beach volleyball Top Division. She started playing beach volleyball at the RTC when she was twelve years old and was selected for the Dutch beach volleyball team two years ago, where she has been training ever since to develop herself even faster.

Her strength is in her speed, length and clever game sense. On the field, she provides calmness, overview and energy.

\Road to America
After completing her high school diploma, Tess decided to take a gap year so she could fully focus on her development as a player. Right from the start, she knew what she wanted: to play at a high level, gain international experience and seize the opportunity to secure a volleyball scholarship. In doing so, she also hoped to find a place where she could combine both beach and indoor, a unique combination that suits her perfectly as an athlete.

During the process, Tess had to make some tough choices. Several universities showed interest, but also unexpected twists, such as the cancellation of a previously chosen program, demanded flexibility and perseverance. In those very moments, she stayed focused on her goal and remained open to new opportunities. Her determination ultimately took her exactly where she wanted to be.

Stronger together with Slamstox
What made the journey with Tess so special? Her enthusiasm, the trust of her parents and her clear goal: to get everything out of it. From the beginning she was super motivated to make the right choice – and especially one in which her great love for beach volleyball could remain paramount.

Throughout the entire process, quick turnaround was key. Thanks to her drive and open mindset, steps could be taken very quickly. With a keen eye for what was really important to Tess – such as combining beach and indoor, or finding a team that suited her – the right direction was always chosen.

Ready for adventure
The first weeks in America, of course, took some getting used to – new country, new system, new people. But by now Tess feels completely at home. She is looking forward to developing herself further, both on the field and in the college benches.

With her positive mindset, strong game and broad experience, she is ready to flame in America. And one thing is certain: this is only the beginning.

Are you interested in playing college volleyball in the U.S.? Schedule a free introduction!