After Marente's player of the match performance in her debut game, we decided to ask her a few questions about her hockey journey and how she ended up in Orange representing the Netherlands.

When and where did you start playing hockey?

Started playing when I was 5 years old at HC Alphen, where my parents live. Changed club when I was 13 to HV Victoria. Changed to THC Hurley at my third senior year.

Fun fact; I wanted to play soccer when I was younger but my daddy refused that because he thought soccer was for boys.

What got you into the game?

My dad played hockey so that why I started playing hockey instead of soccer.

What position do you play? Have you always played there?

Used to play in the midfield. Mostly on the right side, at my club in the center as well and sometimes left as well. Just running all over the place. 

I started playing as a striker so I could do the long rushes, but it turns out better to be midfielder.

When did hockey start to become a big part of your life?

When I changed club and started at HV Victoria. The trainings where 3 or 4 times a week and my parents took me to training every time by car so a lot of investment and time at an age of 13. That’s when I wanted to get bigger and better.

Was there a moment when you decided to really push for the Dutch nation team?

Not really, there was a moment when I thought I reached the top with playing Hoofdklasse and was satisfied with that. I think because of that, I let the pressure go and played more on intuition without any pressure I putted myself on. From then on I just enjoyed playing hockey. So and then Alyson Annan called me, that’s was the moment I realized I didn’t reach my top yet.

When did you get into the Dutch youth team? (If you made any of the youth teams)

Never been in a youth team, funny part. Trained with the team in May because there were lots of injured girls. So actually this match was my move to the National squad.

How long have you been a part of the Dutch squad?

Never before. Keep chasing your dreams.

When/how did you find out you were going to make your debut?

A week before after training Alyson Annan told me that I would be part of the selection.

How special was it for you to play in Orange?

Amazing, very special. Never played in Dutch teams or youth teams so this was my first time playing in the orange jersey, first time anthem, first time so many supporters. Such  a special moment and especially in Holland with family and friends in the stadion.

How do you think your first game went?

Did the best I could. Started a bit nervous but after the first quarter I just enjoyed every minute of it. Focused on the things I needed to do, and play with intuition. That worked out. As I am, I’m never satisfied, made some mistakes as well. But for a first game, I think a made a good impression. 

Hockey is obviously a big part of your life, what else inspires you/interest you outside of the game?

Family and friends are the most important to me, my biggest support of course and I love to hangout with them whenever it is possible. A part from hockey, I work in the hospital as anesthetic nurse so doing the narcotics at the operating room, trauma’s at the ER and life support.

What do you do when you're not playing? 

Hanging out with family and/ or friends, working in the hospital. Otherwise I will be busy making  good meals to treat my bod well. 

What's the next step for you? Paris Olympics? Milestones? What drives you?

Keep it small, step by step. Doing more game, because important for the team and hopefully play the world cup. From then on we will see, just keep it realistic with small steps first.

What do you love most about the game?

The tempo in the game. I just love that every single time its unpredictable, no matter if you are playing against Olympics, debutants or experienced, there always a chance to win.