Player Focus – Elselien

Reflecting on your time with the team so far, what’s one key aspect of our team culture or style that you believe contributes most to our success and enjoyment as a group?

I think that everyone feels safe and comfortable enough to make mistakes and learn from them. Everyone is equal, whether you are an experienced or a beginner player.

Can you share a specific moment where you felt particularly happy to be a member of this team, and what made that moment stand out for you?

It is hard to choose one moment. I mostly enjoy the weekly practices and the fun we then have. Playing matches against other teams are moments when everything comes together and where we can show how we have improved.

What’s one skill or area of your own game that you’ve noticeably developed since joining this team, and what do you attribute that improvement to?

When I started playing for With Unity, I had never played for a team before, so I had zero technique. I feel like I have most improved when it comes to ball control and that is mostly because of just playing football regularly and the little tips and tricks we have been taught during practice.

Beyond the football , what’s the most valuable lesson or experience you’ve had?

It is similar to what I have mentioned before. It is refreshing to be part of a team where everyone is welcome, where there is no judgment or competition, and where we all encourage each other to become better.

Looking ahead, what are you most excited about for the team, and what are your personal goals within that team context?

I hope the team will enter more and more tournaments, and of course win them. As for myself, I just hope we win the next derby!

With Unity are part of a larger movement to encourage more and more females to play football. Your own country are quite good at this. With you having a daughter also, do you feel this movement is something that is improving in Korea and worldwide, or is there still a long way to go?

I think women’s football has come a long way and that, in the Netherlands, playing football as a woman is not something that stands out or anything. At the same time, there is still a lot that can be improved. I feel football is sometimes still regarded as a men’s game and that women’s football is second to men’s football – just looking at the media coverage says enough I think.

Thank you for your time Else! Is there anything else you would like to say before we wrap up?

If you are unsure about joining the team, do not hesitate any longer and just do it! You will have plenty of laughs while working on your football skills and it is the most fun way to get a workout in.