Two teenage footballers from the Stellenbosch University Football Development, Luke le Roux and Aden Philander, say they had a great experience in Holland.
The two players were invited to the Netherlands after impressing PEC Zwolle technical director Gerard Nijkamp during their training stint.

Through the partnership between the University of Stellenbosch and PEC Zwolle, two U15 players and a coach of the Stellenbosch University High Performance Football Programme were invited to attend a training opportunity in the Netherlands. One of Stellenbosch’s coaches, Jason Rhoda, was identified as the coach who accompanied the players.

Aden Philander said: “During the training opportunity we concentrated a lot on the tactical aspects of the game. We were given specific instruction of how to behave in attack and defence.

“Netherlands is very beautiful and the people are very warm. It reminds me of Stellenbosch.”

Meanwhile Luke Le Roux had this to say: “I have in a short time gained much knowledge. The camp has also increased my confidence in my own abilities.

“What impressed me is that all the coaches keep calm even when under pressure and are able to influence player behaviour in a positive way.

“A lot of emphasis was placed on technical and tactical aspects of the game. They constantly encourage the players and compliment them when they perform their tasks and responsibilities well.”

Luke le Roux is a 14-year-old midfielder from Luckhoff High School while Aden Philander is also 14 and is from Bergvliet High School. They have been earmarked as two of the more exciting prospects out of the Western Cape for the future.

PEC Zwolle are expected to be back in the country for their mid-season break in the Dutch league season.