Laura Overwater, 27, from Weert, 1.88 m, middle blocker.
Demi Korevaar, also 1.88 m, 25, from Breda, middle blocker.
Annick Meijers, 25, from Zevenhuizen, 1.92 m, outside hitter.
These are the three Dutch players who will compete in ’s-Hertogenbosch for the second BeNeCup together with their Belgian team Asterix Avo Beveren. Their opponent on 28 December is Friso Sneek. A clash of cultures, playing styles and ambitions?

Should we expect a special Belgium–Netherlands atmosphere in sports hall De Maaspoort?
Laura:
“Not at all. I haven’t played volleyball in the Netherlands for seven years, so it’s hard to compare. But I do know that everything here is well organised and very professional, with excellent support staff, including physiotherapists. The biggest sporting difference lies in defensive quality. In Belgium, a lot of attention is paid to that part of the game.”
Demi:
“The volleyball language… I’m still learning new typically Belgian expressions every day. We might be a bit more direct in communication. We say things as they are, but not in an extroverted or blunt way. It’s mainly about clarity.”
Annick:
“I know Belgium a bit better now, as I’ve been studying at the University of Antwerp for two years. Every day I commute by train from Antwerp to Leuven. I was briefly uncertain about my volleyball future due to my injury, so I decided to continue my studies. Antwerp was the best option. I restarted volleyball in Oudegem and now I’m at Asterix Avo. I really enjoy it here.”

Does the meeting between the champions of the Low Countries create extra tension or extra enjoyment?
Annick:
“Sneek indeed finished first in the Dutch Eredivisie last season. Since then, the team has changed considerably. We know a few players and are aware of the quality and talent within their squad.”
Demi:
“We know coach Erik Rijtsma very well through Oranje, the Dutch talent team and the U22s. Setter Anna Mebus is also a familiar face. Like Annick and me, she played in Germany. Friso Sneek’s current ranking doesn’t say much. Finals are always special and follow their own rules.”
Laura:
“This Cup is obviously different from a regular league match. Last season, Asterix Avo won four trophies, including the BeNeCup. That was unique. With the Belgian Super Cup no longer existing and the recent elimination from the national cup, this trophy and this Belgium–Netherlands clash remain a unique shared objective. It brings a lot of motivation and extra enjoyment. It’s special to be able to play ‘at home’ again.”

What do you miss about the Netherlands, and what would you never want to lose from Belgium?
Laura:
“There’s no Albert Heijn in Leuven, and I miss that. Annick lives close to an Albert Heijn in Antwerp, so I’ll have to give her my shopping lists. (laughs)”
Annick:
“I really appreciate the study facilities here. Healthcare in Belgium is also very well organised. But the highways are terrible, and the driving behaviour really annoys me. Everyone keeps driving in the middle lane.”
Demi:
“On the other hand, petrol prices are much cheaper in Belgium. That’s something we’ll miss one day.”

What can we still wish you just before the New Year? What are your future dreams?
Demi:
“I want to keep growing as an athlete. I’m ambitious and want to improve every day.”
Annick:
“Staying fit and graduating. Enjoying volleyball and seeing what the future brings.”
Laura:
“Winning the BeNeCup, taking the title, and continuing to play volleyball in Belgium for many years.”

Text: WV
Photos: Rudy Pollé