Amsterdam-based Hera United has returned to the training pitch to prepare for its upcoming season in the Eerste Divisie after suffering relegation from top-flight women’s football last term.
The club launched as the first independent professional women’s football team in the Netherlands, carrying high expectations to quickly reach the top tier and eventually compete in European tournaments.
However, a difficult debut season ended in relegation on the final matchday, forcing the organization to reset its short-term sporting timeline.
Roster Overhaul and New Leadership
The relegation triggered a major squad turnover, with 17 players and staff members departing the club during the summer transfer window.
Despite the high turnover, general director Susan van Geenen remains calm, noting that player movement is a standard aspect of professional football as athletes seek top-tier opportunities.
To lead the team on the pitch, Hera United appointed 32-year-old Juryan Zandvliet as their new head coach.
Zandvliet previously coached in the youth academies of PEC Zwolle and AZ Alkmaar, and most recently served as an assistant coach under Alfred Schreuder at Saudi Arabian club Diriyah SC.
Rebuilding on and off the Field
The club will continue playing its home fixtures at Sportpark Goed Genoeg, the home ground of historic local amateur side AFC in Amsterdam South.
While players who remained with the club have expressed a clear target of winning immediate promotion back to the Eredivisie, management is focusing on long-term sustainability.
Competing in the second tier presents commercial and logistical shifts, as Eerste Divisie matches are not covered by the primary domestic broadcaster, ESPN.
The management views this as a chance to control their own media distribution and build a distinct identity directly with fans.
Season Kickoff Ahead
The squad is now working through its pre-season regimen to integrate new signings and establish a tactical foundation before competitive play begins.
The competitive test for the revamped squad comes quickly as the league schedule gets underway.
Hera United opens its Eerste Divisie campaign on August 29 with an away match against Jong PSV in Eindhoven.
