HERA United have strengthened their squad with the signing of Inessa Kaagman, who
has put pen to paper on a contract running until the end of the current season. With
Kaagman’s arrival, the club adds a midfielder with extensive international and domestic
experience, fully in line with HERA United’s sporting ambitions.
Kaagman (born 17 April 1996 in Hoorn) began her professional career in 2013 at Ajax,
where she spent five seasons working under head coach Ed Engelkes. During her time
in Amsterdam, she won the Dutch championship twice and lifted the KNVB Cup on two
occasions. She then embarked on an overseas adventure in England, playing for
Everton and Brighton & Hove Albion. In 2022, Kaagman returned to the Netherlands,
representing PSV, Ajax once again, and sc Heerenveen. She has also earned twelve
caps for the Dutch national team, the Oranje Leeuwinnen.
Technical advisor Mark Coonen said:
“With Inessa Kaagman, HERA United add a player who represents dynamism, energy,
and immediate impact on the pitch. Inessa brings a combination of intensity and game
intelligence that can help the team move forward at crucial moments and fits perfectly
with the current needs of the squad.
Over the course of her career, Inessa has developed into a player with a high speed of
decision-making and a strong drive. She is used to playing at a high tempo, applying
pressure, and not shying away from duels. That intensity is contagious within the team
and contributes to raising the overall level of performance.
In addition to her physical and tactical qualities, Inessa is also mentally strong. She
shows courage, responsibility, and a clear will to win. In matches where the margins are
small, she brings the energy and conviction needed to make the difference.”
Head coach Ed Engelkes is no stranger to Kaagman:
“I worked with her for several years at the start of her career. She is extremely skilful on
the ball and has an excellent understanding of the game, which gives her time on the
pitch. She communicates a lot and, as a result, helps younger players improve. All
things considered, she is a very welcome addition to the current squad. Together with
Do Bruinenberg, we now have two players who know what is required at the highest
level.”
Kaagman herself commented:
“I chose HERA United because the club has great ambitions to grow into a top club,
and it’s fantastic to be part of that.The goal is, of course, to finish as high as possible in the league table and to keep
improving as a team, playing from our own identity.”
On Sunday, 18 January, HERA United resume league action with an away match against
FC Utrecht (kick-off at 4:45 PM). One week later, on Sunday, 25 January at 4:45 PM, HERA United will play their first
home match of 2026 against Feyenoord