Meet the team Koen Houdijk on WHC/Hercules No Longer Being the New Kids

Ahead of the new season, we spoke with Koen Houdijk of WHC/Hercules about the team’s tight-knit roots, life after a solid debut season, and their ambitions for year two. 

How would you describe the atmosphere within the team? 

“We have a really good atmosphere within the team, because we’ve been playing together since our youth days. That’s a great foundation for new guys to grow into as well.” 

What do you think is the team’s greatest strength this season? 

“Our strength is mainly the good vibe within the team, and the fact that we’ll always fight for each other. At the same time, we keep building a dynamic style of play where different players can really come into their own.” 

What’s changed within the team this year? 

“We’ve brought in some good reinforcements that we can use to take new steps in our game. We’re also no longer the new team in the Coinmerce SHL, which means we now have to show that we belong here.” 

What are the team’s goals for this season? 

“Our first goal remains staying up in the Coinmerce SHL. At the same time, we have the ambition to compete for a spot in the top 8.” 

What’s your team’s favourite pre-match ritual? 

“The moment where everyone gives each other that extra bit of hype.” 

What would you personally like to achieve this season? 

“To become even more important for the team, and I think it would be amazing to become a fixture within the Coinmerce SHL with this group.”