The golfer

The Road to Pro

Exceptionally talented – that much is clear after the past years in which Steven became the two time U16 World Champion!
Steven first discovered golf in 2021, almost by chance, two years after nearly losing his father. Together, they laid the foundation for where Steven stands today. Now, he’s chasing his dream!

Passion, perseverance, dedication, and a fierce will to win are some of the qualities that drive Steven in his pursuit to become the world’s number one professional golfer.

Steven’s parents are hardworking people who do everything they can to support him. His father, Paul, even works two jobs – including night shifts – just to be able to take Steven to training and tournaments during the day. At 16 years old, Steven is still completely dependent on his parents for transportation.

His selection by the Dutch Golf Federation (NGF) for Heren Jong Oranje (Boys’ National Team) confirms he is on the right path. But this is the critical stage – he cannot continue without your financial support. It is absolutely essential.

How It All Began

Back in 2020, Steven was playing football and tennis. But when those sports were shut down due to COVID, he came across his father’s old golf clubs in the shed and asked if he could try hitting a golf ball. His father took him to a nearby industrial area and showed him the basics. Using a 64° lob wedge, Steven hit a few balls – and was instantly hooked.

Soon after, they visited GC Heidemeer, the local golf club in Heerenveen, where Steven was allowed to play on the practice pitching hole. He picked up the game quickly and started hitting impressive shots, eventually being invited to play a few holes on the main course. As his progress accelerated, the club advised him to obtain his official playing license (GVB – Golf Proficiency Certificate).

At Golfclub St. Nicolaasga, Steven earned his GVB on April 4th, 2021, after just two lessons (one of which was only an introduction) and playing only 5 holes.

A Rising Star

The Dutch Golf Federation (NGF) soon noticed how quickly Steven’s handicap dropped – from 54 to 15.1 in just 6 months!
In October 2021, the NGF granted Steven “Promising Talent” status, which allowed him to transfer from a regular school to a top sports school (LOOT program) at OSG Sevenwolden in Heerenveen.

Today, Steven trains 6 days a week, spending around 27 hours on golf (including 63 holes and intensive training). In his free time, he also does personal training with Thiemen Pen at Real-PT in Heerenveen, and trains at Gymnasion in Joure.

As of September 20, 2025, Steven’s official handicap is +2.6.