The head coach of the Netherlands national team, Evangelos Doudesis, shares his top five players for 2022.
The former Greek international initially joined the Polar Bears men’s team as a player, but was quickly elevated to head coach of the entire women’s section in Ede. As the women’s head coach, he led the Ede Polar Bears from last place in the Eredivisie to the league championship in 2018, implementing a complete reorganisation and culture shift at the club by focusing on the younger generations.
Due to his unprecedented success, he was appointed as the assistant coach of the Netherlands women’s national team, as well as the junior national teams, in 2017. After the Tokyo Olympics, he was finally given the opportunity to take over as head coach of the women’s national team, guiding the Netherlands to a bronze medal finish at this year’s World Championships.
Eva Doudesis’ Top 5 of 2022
“Its always a very challenging decision between a few outstanding players. I would rather not select any Dutch athletes for the top 5.”
1. Maddie Musselman (USA)
United States National Team Player/Club: UCLA/Position: Wing
Maddie is sophisticated. My number 1. No second thoughts at all. She has defined the game last year. Musselman was the MVP at the Worlds leading her team to the gold
2. Rita Keszthelyi (HUN)
Hungarian National Team Player/Club: CN Mataro/Position: Driver
Such a versatile player. She has the ability to inspire her team. Keszthelyi made the difference for Hungary on their way to the final at the Worlds.
3. Elena Ruiz (ESP)
Spanish National Team Player/Club: Sabadell /Position: Driver
She understands the game. She creates a lot of space for her teammates, and she is really dangerous with her shot. Although she is the youngest player in Spain, she doesn’t hesitate to take responsibility. I'm looking forward to seeing her play in the Champions League this season.
4. Ashleigh Johnson (USA)
United States National Team Player/Position: Goalkeeper
Consistent. She was the best keeper at the World Championships. Furthermore, she made the difference by carrying Ethnikos all the way to the end and winning the LEN Trophy.
