Laura Dijkema, the 35-year-old volleyball player from Beilen, has announced her retirement from the Dutch national team after an impressive career spanning 443 international matches. "After fourteen years in the orange shirt with number 14, the circle is complete," Dijkema stated, marking the end of her journey with the national team.
Dijkema began her volleyball career at Smash in Beilen, where she honed her skills before making her debut for the national team in 2010 against Cuba. Reflecting on her early days, she noted, "The then setter Kim Staelens was pregnant, and I was essentially thrown to the lions because there was no other setter available. I wasn’t even consciously thinking about it; it wasn't even a dream of mine to join the Dutch team."
Throughout her career, Dijkema experienced numerous highs, including a standout moment at the European Championship held in the Netherlands, where the team secured a silver medal. "I will never forget the European Championship at home, where we won silver. I got goosebumps for the first time during a match in front of 10,000 Dutch fans in Ahoy. That moment will always stay with me," she recalled.
Another significant milestone in Dijkema's career was her participation in the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, where the Dutch team finished fourth. "That was something the Netherlands hadn't achieved in twenty years, so as a child, that was never a dream for me. I thought such a thing was unattainable," she reflected. Despite the disappointment of not winning a medal, Dijkema expressed pride in their performance, stating, "We played very well in that tournament. It's a shame we couldn't reward ourselves with a medal. I want to hold onto that feeling of pride, which is why I've never watched that last match again."
Over the years, Dijkema grew into a leadership role, eventually becoming the captain of the national team. "I have grown from a small girl into the captain, leader, and captain of the team. As captain, I felt that responsibility very strongly. I hope that in my last year, I could still contribute to the team's performance, even from the sidelines," she added.
While her time with the national team has come to an end, Dijkema will continue her volleyball career at the club level, playing for LOVB Omaha in the American League One. Her decision to retire from international competition comes as she shifts her focus to club volleyball and new challenges ahead.
Dijkema's retirement marks the end of an era for Dutch volleyball, as she leaves behind a legacy of dedication, leadership, and remarkable achievements. Her contributions to the sport and the national team will not be forgotten, as she has inspired many young athletes in the Netherlands and beyond.
As Dijkema embarks on this new chapter in her career, she carries with her the memories of her time in the national team, the friendships forged, and the countless moments that defined her journey. Fans and fellow players alike will undoubtedly miss her presence on the court, but her impact on the sport will continue to resonate.
In the coming months, Dijkema will focus on her club commitments while reflecting on her illustrious career. As she transitions away from international play, she remains a role model for aspiring volleyball players, demonstrating that hard work, passion, and perseverance can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.
With her retirement, the Dutch volleyball community bids farewell to a true champion, celebrating the achievements of Laura Dijkema and looking forward to the future of the sport in the Netherlands.
