In a sport that thrives on structure, speed, and smart decisions, Stella van Gils brings a calm, commanding presence to the midfield. A product of the Netherlands’ rich hockey legacy, she’s become known for her ability to connect play, control tempo, and execute under pressure.
While she may not always steal the spotlight, Stella plays a vital role in every match she’s in—bridging the defense and attack with intelligence and precision. She represents a new generation of Dutch players: technically gifted, mentally sharp, and always team-first.
Early Life: A Natural Fit for the Game
Stella van Gils was born on October 4, 1999, in the Netherlands. Like many Dutch kids, she was introduced to field hockey early on, and it quickly became more than just a hobby—it was a passion. From the moment she stepped onto a turf field, Stella showed the instincts of a midfielder: awareness, anticipation, and unselfish play.
She honed her skills at local clubs and youth academies, standing out for her quiet leadership and ability to read the game. Her early performances earned her call-ups to the national junior teams, where she began representing her country and gaining experience at a high level.
Club Career: Strong Foundations in the Hoofdklasse
Stella plays in the Hoofdklasse, the Netherlands’ top domestic hockey league, where she has developed her game with Pinoké Hockey Club. Competing in one of the toughest leagues in the world, Stella has established herself as a dependable and impactful midfielder.
Her ability to link passes, hold possession under pressure, and make smart decisions has made her a trusted starter. Whether it’s a high-stakes playoff or a regular-season game, Stella brings consistency and calm to the field.
International Career: Making Her Mark with the Oranje
Stella van Gils made her senior debut for the Netherlands national team in 2021 and was quickly trusted in major competitions—proof of her readiness and skill. She was part of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic squad (held in 2021), which won the gold medal, a huge milestone early in her career.
Career Highlights:
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🥇 Olympic Gold Medalist – Tokyo 2020
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🏑 Regular appearances in FIH Pro League and other international tournaments
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🌍 Represented Netherlands at European and global levels
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🔑 Known for smart passing, ball control, and game composure in midfield
Though still young, Stella is developing into a core figure for the national side—reliable, composed, and unshakably consistent.
Playing Style: Brainy, Balanced, and Bold
Stella van Gils is the kind of midfielder every team needs. She might not be the flashiest player on the pitch, but her value lies in what she brings to the flow and stability of the game.
Key Attributes:
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Composure Under Pressure: Rarely rushes or forces passes
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Passing Vision: Keeps the ball moving and finds pockets of space
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Tactical Awareness: Always well-positioned and defensively responsible
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Work Rate: Quietly covers a lot of ground and supports both ends
She’s a player who does the little things right—and that makes a big difference.
Off the Pitch: Balanced, Focused, and Future-Oriented
Off the field, Stella is thoughtful, grounded, and highly disciplined. She’s known for her work ethic and team-first mentality, and is often seen as a quiet leader in the locker room.
Away from hockey, Stella balances her athletic career with education and personal development. She’s also passionate about promoting women in sport and setting an example for young girls dreaming of a career in hockey.
Earnings and Sponsorships
As an emerging international talent, Stella’s income sources include:
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Club salary from the Hoofdklasse
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Support from the national hockey federation
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Performance bonuses from international competitions
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Potential sponsorships from sportswear and athletic brands
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Appearances at clinics and youth hockey events
With her continued rise, more commercial opportunities are likely to follow.
What’s Next: A Leader in the Making
Still in her mid-20s, Stella van Gils is just getting started. Her goals are clear:
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Cement her spot as a starting midfielder for the national team
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Compete and win in future World Cups and Olympic Games
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Inspire and mentor young players through her journey
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Continue developing as a leader on and off the field
