Damian JansenPro

Striker

I have decided to return to AFC so that I can get plenty of playing time and become an important player for the team. I frequently play with the first team (U17-1) in the 3rd division—which is the level I’m accustomed to—but I also play with the second team. I’m playing as a striker here, which feels a bit unfamiliar, but the coach thinks I’m doing well and considers me an important player.

Left winger, Right winger, Striker

A major step in my career: I moved from the regional 5th division to the national 3rd division—a strong league featuring high-level players. I experienced both highs and lows, struggling at times with a lack of self-confidence and limited playing time. Yet, I always gave everything for the team and never missed a training session, even during moments when I felt like quitting. I learned a great deal and was part of some memorable matches—such as the game against PEC Zwolle and an away cup tie against ADO Den Haag, which we lost 4–3 (in a result that felt undeserved). Looking back, it was a valuable experience, though also a challenging period.

Left winger, Right winger

It was my first season at a new club, where I started a level up in the U16s. I began well, but soon encountered a back injury. After a month, I returned for my first match, only to suffer a torn calf muscle—an injury that kept me sidelined until nearly the winter break. As the team was struggling with a shortage of players, I moved to the U15-1 squad in February. I performed well there, recording 4 goals and 3 assists in the matches I was able to play; we ended up winning the championship and earning promotion to Division 5. In the meantime, I also completed a trial period at SV Hoofddorp.

Left winger, Right winger, Right-back

During the nine years I spent at AFC, I played against many Dutch professional clubs, such as Ajax, AZ, and FC Utrecht. I won several tournaments and competed in the U11 final against Ajax at the Zeeburgia tournament. I spent five years in the first team—a period marked by both highs and lows—and by the time I reached the U14 level, I was ready for a new challenge.