Name:Â Wouter Verstraaten
Born:Â 10 mrt. 1996
Sport:Â Voetbal
University:Â University of the Pacific
Placed:Â Fall 2016
The start of a unique adventure
Wouter Verstraaten went through his entire youth training at PSV and played one year with the first team of FC Eindhoven. After obtaining his VWO diploma at Sint Joriscollege in Eindhoven, he decided to study at Tilburg University. Soon it became clear that it was almost impossible to combine professional soccer with a high-level study, so Wouter considered moving to America.
Transfer to the USA
Slamstox helped Wouter find the perfect place to pursue his soccer and study ambitions. Thanks to Slamstox’s personal connections with coach Ryan Jorden of University of the Pacific, a great deal was worked out in a short period of time. Coach Jorden even came personally to Geldrop to meet Wouter and his family. The goal was clear: Wouter wanted to continue playing soccer at the highest level and study at the same time.
Together with his friend and former PSV teammate Bob Groenendijk, he began his adventure in California. Both boys quickly became key players at University of the Pacific and played a major role in the success of their team, the Tigers.
From maverick to college sensation
Wouter and Bob performed exceptionally well with the Tigers. They took the team from 185th nationally to the top 20 in just a year and a half! They won the conference several times and reached the NCAA national tournament. In one of their best years, they unfortunately lost in the second round after a thrilling penalty kick series against Stanford, the later winner. Wouter missed a crucial penalty, but that does not diminish his impressive college career.
From college to the MLS
After his time at University of the Pacific, Wouter got the chance to prove himself at the MLS Combine, where the 60 best college soccer players were invited to play for MLS coaches. He eventually received an offer from the Portland Timbers, where he played for some time. Wouter was the first Dutchman to enter the MLS draft through the American college system!
Back to Europe – from soccer to society
After his adventure in the MLS, Wouter returned to Europe, where he decided to continue his studies at Durham University in England. He continued to play soccer at a high level, and RTL News even wrote an article about his special journey: Read the article.
After his time in England, Wouter returned to the Netherlands, where he decided to focus on a social career. He now works at ABN Amro’s headquarters in Amsterdam, where, as an ex-top athlete, he was welcomed with open arms.
A valuable member of the Slamstox community
Slamstox has accompanied Wouter every step of his extraordinary journey and is incredibly proud of him as an ambassador. He has always remained part of the Slamstox community and remains a great example for other players who want to get the most out of their sports and study careers. The fact that Wouter has always remained focused on his studies has now paid huge dividends for him. His story inspires others to get the best out of themselves, both on and off the field.
Watch videos about Wouter’s adventure here:
