Rotterdam has taken a unique approach to field hockey, focusing on long-term player development rather than simply addressing the gender-based salary gap. The club aims to provide players with opportunities to build social careers, ensuring financial security beyond their athletic careers. Striker Joy Haarman, who joined Rotterdam in the summer of 2023, exemplifies this strategy. After completing her master’s degree in the U.S., Haarman was offered a position at communications consultancy Somention, giving her a stable income alongside her field hockey career.
Chairman Jac Bressers explained that Rotterdam’s focus is not just on narrowing the salary gap between male and female players, but on preparing them for the future. While the wage disparity in top-level field hockey remains, the club believes that guiding players toward a social career offers far more long-term benefits. “Hockey is number one for us, but we encourage players to actively invest in their social career,” Bressers said, highlighting the importance of courses, internships, and job opportunities.
Rotterdam also collaborates with Topsportnetwerk, an organization that supports top athletes in building their social careers. The club covers the costs for these services, ensuring players receive guidance without financial burden. This holistic approach has already helped several players, such as Thijs van Dam, who now gains work experience alongside his hockey career. The results have been promising, with players like Iris Nikerk and others finding jobs through the club’s business network.
Rotterdam’s forward-thinking model is proving successful, as it moves beyond the traditional financial incentives to invest in players’ futures.
Source: Swifteradio.com
