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Marcel Balkestein - A case of Cream rising to the top
posted on 10/03/2010
Marcel Balkestein - A case of Cream rising to the top Marcel Balkestein knows all about the highs and lows of life as an International hockey player and is making the most of his inclusion here in the Netherlands squad here at his first World Cup. Marcel explains "i was in the team in the build up for the 2006 World Cup but missed out for the team for Munchengladbach so it is pleasing to have been included here, particularly for my parents Marlies and Jan" Marcel started playing hockey at the age of 5 for his club Heeze HC near Eindhoven and moved to Orange / Black when he was 20. Unlike other players his route into the Orange was not via the usual Under 16, 18 or Under 21 teams - It was as a result of his consistent performances for his club side Orange / Black that have brought him International recognition. Working under the watchful eye of Toon Siepman and Roger van Gent Marcel has forced his way into the team here for his first World Cup. " Orange / Black won the Dutch league for the first time in 2004 / 5 season and this has been my way into the national squad " Marcel played at the Champions Trophy In Chennai in 2005 Marcel 's swashbuckling style is quite unusual in that whilst he plays in the Left back position he adds much energy to the Dutch left side offence with his " overlapping " style and pace normally associated with a player playing on the right side of the field. " I enjoy attacking and adding to the team in that way " he added. When not involved playing hockey Marcel works for ABN Amro bank in Eindhoven looking after their Medical Accounts for them. Marcel Balkestein Grays Stick choice - GX 8000
