The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) has long been renowned for its progressive approach to the game—a philosophy that has propelled this nation of fewer than 18 million inhabitants to the pinnacle of both men's and women's football. One of the primary pillars of this success is the commitment to mixed football for players up to the age of 12. Currently, over 93% of the Netherlands' 2,399 clubs operate with mixed teams. For Roos Brouwer, Senior Football Development Employee at the KNVB, this federal policy fosters the development of young players both athletically and personally: "Mixed football plays a key role in the sustainability of grassroots clubs and in creating a safe, welcoming environment at every level of the game," she explained in a presentation for FIFA. "Our research indicates that mixed football provides cross-functional benefits, fostering inclusion while improving the overall quality of youth academies. Selecting players based on their ability level (potential/talent) rather than gender promotes more competitive matches. This is why we encourage elite female players to remain in mixed football for as long as possible," asserts Brouwer. She remains a firm believer in the "Oranje Model," which enhances children's technical proficiency while simultaneously honing their social skills.
Over 93% of the 2,399 clubs in the Netherlands are mixed! A KNVB initiative for youth academies, for all players up to the age of 12. / ©KNVB