Vivian Sevenich feels at home again on Dutch soil
The return of Vivian Sevenich, who grew up in Lichtenvoorde, is not only a step in her water polo career but also in her personal life. What drives the passionate and determined water polo player who made her debut in the Dutch team at the age of sixteen?
Splendid time in Spain
The 31-year-old center forward played at CN Mataró in Spain since 2020, where last season she beautifully concluded her Spanish period with a league championship alongside Simone van de Kraats.
It was a crowning achievement of her hard work and a splendid addition to her well-stocked trophy cabinet. In the Netherlands, she previously played for ZPC LIVO, ZVL-1886, UZSC and Polar Bears alongside her sister Elsemiek. Abroad, she played for the Italian Waterpolo Despar Messina and the Hungarian UVSE.
“Spain was a great experience, especially with the warm atmosphere at Mataró. It's a true family club. I immensely enjoyed my time in Barcelona,” the Dutch international says.
The conscious return to the Netherlands
Having completed her bachelor's degree in law last year and currently pursuing a master's degree in criminal law, she is also working on her professional career. As a family person, Sevenich is happy to be back in the Netherlands, where she lives in the central part of the country.
“Utrecht is a nice home base. I can bike to the university and enjoy my family. Being close with the birth of my nephew is incredibly comforting!,” she says with a big smile.
The balance between elite sports and personal life has become increasingly important for Sevenich in recent years.
‘’It wasn't an easy choice, but a conscious one. In Spain, you live in a bubble of training and matches. In the Netherlands, I can find more balance. This also gives me the energy to keep performing at the highest level,” she explains.
Sevenich thoroughly enjoys being with her newborn nephew and almost 3-year-old niece. “Children have no idea about the pressure and hassle surrounding elite sports, and that brings a delightful sense of relaxation. It helps me put things in perspective,” she laughs.
The discipline that has brought her much continues
This summer, Sevenich was one of the new additions to the women's team of GZC Donk, which seems stronger than ever. Despite her expanded focus, the discipline that has brought her to where she is today remains unchanged. After the Champions League qualification and winning the quarterfinals of the cup, she remains realistic and ambitious.
''We won't hide,'' she says determinedly. ''We have a lot of quality in the team, and once we are fully in sync, I am confident we can compete for all titles.''
Last summer, the ladies in Paris already knew what the new team would look like. According to the former assistant coach of Young Orange (2016-2018), it was not a given that all the women would go to Gouda.
''Each of the girls had their own story. It wasn't definitive for anyone that this was possible. For the younger girls, European matches will be a wonderful experience. In the Champions League, teams grow even closer, which I always experienced at Polar Bears. These phases, where you work hard together to achieve results, are rewarding. The team had a tough season last year, and we are determined to show what we are capable of. I am happy to be part of this team. Another benefit is that I now play with Sabrina rather than against her, haha.''
The indefatigable and disciplined Sevenich never slackens
With over 150 caps, the steadfast player, since her debut, has not missed any international tournaments. She has built a splendid track record both with the national team and her clubs. Despite a six-month absence due to a shoulder injury in the 2016/2017 season, she has always worked hard to achieve her impressive (international) career.
‘’As a center forward, you can't perform at 90%. You always have to give your all, and that remains my starting point. Discipline is my foundation and has always been my point of departure. Everything had to make way for water polo, and that commitment remains the same, even now that I have a little more space for other things. The athlete in me always wants to push harder and give my all, even though you know it might not always be necessary.”
It is a sign of her tireless dedication and determination to bring out the best in herself and her team. Sevenich is ready to perform with GZC Donk, where, with her experience, passion, and drive, she is determined to get the best out of herself and her team both personally and professionally. She has also been infected by the great enthusiasm and dedication within the club‘’The passion of everyone at GZC Donk is amazing. Everyone is doing a tremendous amount for the club, and I have received an incredibly warm welcome. I am grateful and happy to be back in the Netherlands! We are going to have a splendid season!
GZC Donk plays their first Eredivisie match of the season against PSV this upcoming Saturday. The full Eredivisie schedule can be found on this page. On Friday, we will share the Eredivisie preview for the women's league.
On October 26, the Champions League for the Gouda team starts against SIS Roma. Check the full schedule via this link.
