Robert van der Horst

Robert van der Horst

• Date of Birth: 17 October 1984
• Club: Rotterdam
• Position: Defender

Robert began his hockey career at HC Tegenbosch in Eindhoven, moving to Oranje-Zwart after a talent day. As a 16-year-old he won a place in the men’s first team and kept it for eight seasons. He moved to HC Rotterdam at the end of the 08-09 season.

Robert was voted World Hockey Young Player of the Year in 2005 and has been a permanent fixture in the Dutch team for a number of years. His best hockey memories are the national championship with Oranje-Zwart in 2005 and the European Championship victory in Manchester in 2007.

Robert on himself

I don’t know what it is, but like so many hockey players I enjoy small games during training the most. On the other hand I find static training, where you do a lot of the same thing, is the least enjoyable.
 
When I can I like eating the occasional portion of chips....lovely! Ha ha. But I always take care with what I eat and before a game I usually eat pasta and a white bread sandwich.
 
I am not normally all that superstitious, but during the national anthem I always have to stand next to Timme Hoyng.
 
We are always hugely focused during matches and then it’s wonderful to drink a beer or Jack cola with the boys after the game.
 
If I was unable to play hockey, but could excel in another sport, then that would be football I think, although I also like playing golf and watching basketball....LeBron James is a hero of mine.

Facts about Robert

Robert has ASICS sample size and is often allowed to try out the latest models and give his opinion. His favourite boot is the ASICS Gel Platinum.
 
Robert currently often listens to Jason Mraz on his iPod.
 
Best of all Robert likes to play a round of golf in his spare time.

Robert says:

"All or nothing. The maximum, in other words!"