The article highlights the thriving amateur soccer scene in the Netherlands, exemplified by players like Denzel Dumfries, who began at VV Smitshoek. Despite his non-traditional route, he is now a key player for Inter Milan and the national team. The community-driven nature of clubs in the region fosters talent from a young age, allowing children, including Dumfries, to dream big. His journey underscores the importance of perseverance and grassroots support in developing future sports stars.
Denzel Dumfries was just one of the children enjoying Saturday morning soccer in this part of the world with his pals, having slipped through the academy net.
'He was a child that really stands behind his dream and is willing to do anything for it,' Peter van der Pennen, his first coach, tells ESPN.
A decade ago, Dumfries was just one of the children enjoying Saturday morning soccer, but now he plays for Inter Milan in the Champions League final.
This is just a small snapshot of the Netherlands' amateur soccer scene, where young talents are often developed outside the formal academy pathways.
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