Valerie Neumann is a 20-year-old tennis player from the Netherlands who started her journey as a student-athlete at Christian Brothers University (CBU) in the United States. Valerie, who began her tennis career at the age of six, played at ATV Berkenrode before making the move to America. “Tennis was always a hobby for me, but when Slamstox approached me, a whole new world opened up. I couldn’t believe I had the opportunity to study and play tennis at a high level,” says Valerie.
After receiving several offers, Valerie decided to combine her studies and tennis at CBU, a Division II university. She was particularly drawn to the opportunity to improve her English, pursue a degree that suited her, and further her personal and athletic development. “My goal was to continue developing as a tennis player and to be on the court every day. But it was also important to me to study something that I found interesting,” she explains.
The transition to life in America was not easy. Valerie was initially nervous and unsure about her new life on the other side of the world. “It was a big step. I had a lot of support from my parents and Slamstox, which made the process much easier.” Upon her arrival, Valerie immediately felt welcome in her team, although it wasn’t always easy to adjust. “My team was small, and we had to get used to each other, but I quickly felt at home.
Regarding the training, Valerie notes that there is a difference between America and the Netherlands. “In the Netherlands, they really focus on how you train and your technique. In America, it’s sometimes a bit more relaxed, but the season is more intense. We train much more during the season, but it’s sometimes a bit less focused.”
Valerie is studying International Business at CBU, a program that suits her well. “At first, it took some getting used to doing everything in English, but within a month, it became second nature.” She also notes that she is growing a lot personally through the experience. “It’s such a great challenge to study and train in a different environment every day.”
For the future, Valerie hopes to move up in the lineup for the upcoming spring semester and make her game more aggressive. “It’s important to get the most out of myself and keep improving,” she says. “This adventure in America is exactly what I needed.”
Valerie’s advice to other young athletes considering going to America? “Start the process early, as it can be quite stressful. And talk to people who have already studied in America to share experiences and be well-prepared.”
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