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Breda | September 23, 2025

Aurora Belén: “Hockey really means everything to me”

Aurora Belén (14) from Breda is now playing her third season of senior-level hockey at Den Bosch. She's in the girls' under-16-2 team and dreams big: the Dutch national team. Her mother, Maureen (51), is her rock. Together, they're a true powerhouse who gives everything to the sport and, more importantly, has a lot of fun doing it.

Eat on time, rest on time

Maureen: "It's pretty tough, training three times a week in 's-Hertogenbosch and also competing on the weekend. How do we do that? Rest on time, eat on time, have everything ready by three o'clock, and make sure school is all arranged. Then we're on our way."
Aurora Belén: "School is going well. I'm in the third grade and have chosen economics as my major. I often do my homework in the car or just at school."

From baby sports

Maureen: "She was only three when she was allowed to play indoor hockey with older children. I first saw her talent in soccer hockey, but she was always playing with a ball at home too. Ultimately, she chose hockey, and from the age of six, that was her full focus."

Lost everything in the game

Aurora Belén: "Hockey means everything to me. It's a team sport, and when I'm on the field, I can unleash all my energy. I love making plays, scoring, and providing assists. Playing up front is my favorite, but any position really makes me happy; I'm good at them all."
Maureen: "Her strength lies in her overview and her sharp assists. It all comes together as a striker."

The value of sport

Maureen: "For me, the value of sports lies primarily in the social aspect. We're a family of two, and it's great to connect with even more people. And of course, sports are simply a must: they're healthy, they give you drive, and they keep you fresh. Especially during the teenage years, which are turbulent times for every child."
Aurora Belén: "I used to ride horses, paddleboard, and paddleboard, but now all my time is devoted to hockey. Luckily, I've never really been injured, just broke my nose once. Besides playing hockey ourselves, we players also have to referee other people's games. What I really enjoy is coaching younger top teams, leading training sessions, and setting up drills. Helping children improve their game is also what energizes me."

For me, the value of sports lies primarily in the social aspect. And of course, sports are simply a must: they're healthy, they give you drive, and they keep you fresh. Especially during the teenage years, which are turbulent times for every child.

Support from Youth Fund

Maureen: "We were introduced to all sorts of sports opportunities back in primary school. I read all the information and arranged it myself. My experiences with the Youth Fund have been simply fantastic. Everything always runs smoothly: one phone call and it's all arranged. I can only praise the support provided. Thanks to the Youth Fund, we were also able to arrange sports and art lessons for the foster children I used to support. My advice is to explore all the possibilities. Trial lessons usually cost nothing anyway; just try it out and experiment. That's what we did, from chess lessons to fencing! For top talent, there are also many additional forms of support available, for transportation or other associated costs."

Example for others

Aurora Belén: "I like to lead by example. When I was still playing in Breda, we often gave clinics in the neighborhoods. We'd go to the fields with a bag full of hockey gear, and everyone could join in. There were always a lot of registrations, and sometimes even grandparents would join in! That made me feel like a real ambassador for hockey."

Dream and persevere

Aurora Belén: "I ultimately want to play for the Dutch national team. That means giving up things like parties and hanging out with friends. But it's not hard; I know exactly what I'm doing it for."
Maureen: "Sports take children to places they might otherwise never go, whether it's with her pony in the woods or at an international tournament. Moving to a top club in another city was a logical step for Aurora Belén to further her growth. She even has offers from abroad now. Whether she seizes that opportunity is up to her. I facilitate and advise her. Hockey is her foundation, and I see how much peace of mind it gives her. Dream big, my child, I think to myself. My message to other parents: don't hesitate to ask for help. No child should miss out; every child has the right to it."

Facts about Maureen and Aurora Belén

How old are you?
Aurora Belén: 14
Maureen: 51

Favorite sport?
Aurora Belén: hockey (and previously also horse riding and football)
Maureen: boxing and cycling; I have always done gymnastics and athletics

Favorite song?

Aurora Belén & Maureen: we don't really have a favorite, but ZAAZAA by Frenna is a good fit

What are you most proud of?
Aurora Belén: that I have already played three National Championships

What would you do with a million in the lottery?
Aurora Belén: setting up a hockey club in Suriname and buying a horse
Maureen: buying a house in Valencia and especially making sure Aurora is well taken care of

What do you want for children in Breda?
Maureen: Peace, happiness, and a smile every day. When things are going well in sports, they come off the field laughing – win or lose doesn't matter, it's all about the game.