In the fast, tactical, and fiercely competitive world of international hockey, Xan de Waard stands out as a true artist in motion. With her dazzling stickwork, sharp vision, and unmatched composure, she has become the creative heartbeat of the Netherlands’ women’s team. A player who turns pressure into poetry, Xan has not only won titles—she’s won hearts.
From prodigy to Olympic champion, her journey is one of consistency, class, and complete control of the midfield.
Early Life: A Star in the Making
Born on November 8, 1995, in Renkum, Netherlands, Xan de Waard was introduced to hockey at a very young age. Growing up in a country where the sport is beloved and highly competitive, she naturally found her rhythm on the field—and it didn’t take long for her coaches to realize they had a special talent in their midst.
She quickly advanced through the youth ranks, playing for her local club and representing the Netherlands in age-group competitions. Even in her teens, her control, speed, and confidence with the ball were well beyond her years.
Club Career: Dominance in the Dutch Hoofdklasse
Xan plays for SCHC (Stichtsche Cricket en Hockey Club) in the Hoofdklasse, the top-tier Dutch league renowned for producing world-class players. At club level, she has become a fan favorite and an on-field general.
Whether orchestrating the tempo, creating goal-scoring chances, or dazzling defenders with her skill, Xan is the definition of a midfield general. Her presence raises the entire level of the team, and she consistently delivers in high-stakes matches.
International Career: The Orange Machine’s Engine
Xan de Waard made her senior international debut at just 17 and has since become a fixture in the Netherlands women’s national team, widely considered one of the greatest sides in hockey history.
Major Achievements:
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🥇 Olympic Gold Medalist – Tokyo 2020 (held in 2021)
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🥈 Olympic Silver Medalist – Rio 2016
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🏆 Multiple FIH Hockey World Cup Titles – 2014 and 2022
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🏆 European Champion – Several EuroHockey titles with the national team
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🏑 FIH Pro League Winner – With standout performances in midfield
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🏅 Over 150 international caps – A testament to her consistency and class
Xan is known for turning big matches in her team’s favor—whether through a game-breaking pass, a vital interception, or leading a counterattack from deep midfield.
Playing Style: Elegance, Intelligence, and Endless Stamina
Xan de Waard plays with a style that’s hard to teach and impossible to ignore. She blends flair with function and brings control to chaos.
What Sets Her Apart:
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Vision and Passing: Sees gaps no one else does.
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Ball Control: Effortlessly weaves through defenders.
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Work Rate: Covers every blade of turf from start to finish.
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Tactical Intelligence: Reads the game like a playmaker in chess.
She plays like a conductor leading an orchestra—always in sync, always precise.
Off the Pitch: Role Model and Professional
Xan is admired not just for what she does during the match, but also for how she carries herself off the field. She’s calm, thoughtful, and humble, often seen supporting grassroots programs and inspiring young players, especially girls in sport.
Her interviews reflect intelligence and poise, and she is an advocate for mental strength, fitness, and the value of teamwork in success.
Endorsements and Earnings
As a top-tier athlete, Xan de Waard is supported by:
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National team contracts and international bonuses
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Club-level earnings from SCHC
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Endorsements with major sportswear and performance brands
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Media appearances, ambassador roles, and youth coaching events
Her credibility, clean image, and elite status make her a strong brand ambassador in the global hockey community.
Future Goals: Building a Lasting Legacy
Xan’s ambition is as clear as her passes—long-term, purposeful, and impactful.
She aims to:
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Continue dominating with the Netherlands and win more global titles
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Help build greater visibility for women’s hockey worldwide
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Inspire young players to believe in creativity, not just strength
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Possibly step into coaching or leadership roles in the sport post-retirement
