For Douwe Steens, hockey is first and foremost about working as a team. As a player for HCKZ Men’s 1, he thrives on working toward shared goals and creating success as a group. In this conversation, Douwe reflects on teamwork, ambition, and what top-level sport can teach us.
Teamwork at the Core
“Teamwork means working together toward common goals, helping each other, and trusting one another throughout that process,” Douwe explains. This is important in both good times and bad. When his team faces setbacks, Douwe leads primarily by example. “I try to bring a positive presence and the right attitude on the field. That usually helps move the team forward.”
Asked about the difference between a good team and a championship team, Douwe points to consistency. “A championship team constantly keeps learning, keeps developing, and knows how to deal with setbacks along the way.”
Ambition and Personal Growth
Douwe’s personal development is something he revisits every season. “It varies from year to year,” he explains. “But being a good team player is always important to me. My attitude and presence on the field are things I continuously want to improve, alongside the technical aspects of the game.”
Growth, for Douwe, is a process – and not always a smooth one. “When we discuss things during training and meetings and then work on them, it doesn’t always go perfectly at first. But that’s part of growing. It’s about trying new things combined with putting in the hours – that’s when growth really happens.”
Pressure is something he experiences regularly, especially in important matches. “I do feel pressure, but it actually helps me stay sharp. I allow it to be there. I think I need it, even though it’s not always comfortable. Usually, it fades once the match starts. Knowing that I always give my absolute best also helps.”
What motivates Douwe to perform at a high level every week is the challenge itself. “Trying to reach our highest possible level as a team and pushing myself to play at the top of my abilities and be valuable – that’s what drives me.”
Lessons On and Off the Field
HCKZ and Main Capital Partners share a strong set of values. Both emphasize ambition, collaboration, and offer opportunities for personal growth. Douwe explains, “Within our team, everyone has their own ambitions and goals, but at KZ we all share the same ultimate objective. It’s great to see so many different players united by the same passion.”
Asked what companies can learn from elite sports teams, Douwe highlights the importance of connection. “When you really get to know each other, working together becomes much easier.”
The most important lesson the sport has taught Douwe? Discipline. “That’s something that stays with you far beyond the pitch.”
Looking ahead to the new season, his ambitions are clear and grounded: “Strong matches, plenty of points – and above all, enjoying the journey together, both on and off the field.”
