Video: Former professional soccer player Stephanie van der Gracht receives first silver medal

Winkel – At VV Winkel they were preparing for Saturday’s Super Saturday with a derby against Neuve-Niedorp. Earlier, former professional soccer player Stefanie van der Gracht received the first silver medal from the municipality of Hollands Groen. Having played for Dutch women’s teams Ajax, AZ and FC Barcelona, ​​she is an inspiration to many young women.

The number of female soccer players increased dramatically in 2016 when the Dutch women’s team won the European Championship. The players were a great source of inspiration for the young women, including then central defender Stephanie van der Gracht. Born Heerhugowarter, he started out as a teenager with the local Rieger Boys and has since had a great career. In the Netherlands he played for big clubs such as Ajax, AZ and FC Twente, and abroad for giants FC Barcelona, ​​Bayern Munich and Internazionale. After the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand this summer, he ended his career as a footballer. She now serves as the Technical Manager for AZ’s Women.

The Municipal Council of Holland Kroon has introduced an official recognition: Silver Appreciation. Van der Gracht was the first to receive the recognition from Mayor Ryan Van Dam on Saturday. “If you look at what she’s achieved on the wing and how involved she’s been in football, she’s earned it,” Van Damme said. The former professional footballer was very happy with the recognition: “It’s great and a nice gesture. It’s nice to see how girls look up to you, so they also move and start playing football. Van der Gracht was the first to receive the compliments, but if Van Damme likes him, then some more. Soon to follow. “If there are any examples, we want to hear them,” the mayor said.