Heemskerk Inks Professional Deal in Netherlands
7/24/2014 9:06:00 PM | Men's Soccer
CHARLESTON, S.C. – Former College of Charleston goalkeeper Kees Heemskerk signed a professional contract with FC Den Bosch in his native Netherlands earlier this month, adding to a healthy list of Cougars who have ascended to the professional ranks.
FC Den Bosch competes in the Eerste Divsie, also known as the Jupiler League. It is the second-highest division of football in the Netherlands and is linked with the top-level Eredivisie via a promotion/relegation system.
While at The College, Heemskerk was instrumental to the Cougars' success and played virtually every possible minute in goal before a back injury hindered his senior season, though it didn't prevent him from earning all-Colonial Athletic Association honors. Kees maintained a 1.28 goals-against average and .767 save percentage after setting the program record for saves with 270.
Last December, Heemskerk was one of just 50 players – and four goalkeepers – invited to showcase their talents at the 2014 adidas MLS Player Combine in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The Zaandam, Netherlands, native then returned to his home country to hone his skills before his dream of playing professionally came to fruition.
"I am very happy and proud to have signed for FC Den Bosch,” said Heemskerk. “It is a dream come true. When I didn't get drafted, I was very disappointed but it allowed me to explore different opportunities and I am happy to end up here. I am excited to fight for a starting spot and represent Charleston for the rest of my career."
FC Den Bosch is coming off a fourth-place finish in the 20-team-table comprising Eerste Division. The side qualified for the second round of the Eredivisie playoffs with a final record of 18-12-8. They club plays its home matches in the 8,500-fan capacity De Vliert and launched the career of Dutch sensation Ruud Van Nistelrooy.
