A final. The last twenty seconds. And Patrick scoring the equalizer. Some moments tell you more about a player than a long list of achievements.

In the Belgian Cup final, Patrick gave Union Vrede another lifeline with a late equalizer. The team then went on to clinch victory in extra time. A memory that remains inextricably linked for him to something he considers at least as important: the trust of his teammates.

Patrick, known to many as ‘Polak’, started out in beach soccer as a defender. When the team needed someone between the posts, he stepped up to the plate. He is candid about his limited experience as a goalkeeper, but just as clear about his mindset: keep fighting until the final second.

His story is about being willing to help, continuing to learn, and feeling that your team has your back. Through Mehdi and Tanguy, he found his way to Union Vrede. Now he is looking forward to Alanya, with the ambition to arrive well-prepared and give his all for the collective.

Meet Patrick: the ultimate team player, with an unforgettable final moment to his name.

1. Can you briefly introduce yourself and tell us a bit about Patrick off the pitch?

My name is Patrick, also known as ‘Polak’. I work in logistics and I’m a huge football fan.

2. How did your football journey begin?

I played football up to the second provincial division. I’ve always loved the game.

3. How did you discover beach soccer and what do you remember about your first experiences?

A friend started a beach soccer team back in 2010. I was immediately hooked. One of my best memories is scoring a goal straight from my own net.

4. Which teams have you played for, and who helped you make progress?

I played for NOH. In beach soccer, I made a lot of progress thanks to training with Tanguy at Union Vrede.

5. How did you end up in goal, and how much experience do you have in that position?

I was actually a defender in beach soccer. I stepped into goal to help the team out of a jam. So I don't have much experience as a keeper yet.

6. A beach soccer goalkeeper also takes part in the build-up. How do you try to help in that regard?

When I'm in goal, I try to help the team by playing with my feet, even though I don't have that much experience as a keeper yet.

7. Which moment moved you the most, and what is your fondest memory?

What really touches me is the trust the team puts in me, despite my physical condition. My teammates have always had my back.

My fondest memory is scoring the equalizer in the last twenty seconds of the Belgian Cup final. After that, we went on to win it in extra time.

8. How do you stay focused after conceding a goal and during penalty shootouts?

I never give up until the final second and I stay fully focused. During penalties, I shut everything out and stay in my own bubble.

9. How important is communication with your teammates?

When I'm in goal, I communicate a lot with my teammates and try to help dictate the play.

10. How did you end up at Union Vrede?

Through Mehdi and Tanguy. They invited me to be part of the Union Vrede project and I jumped at the opportunity.

11. What are your ambitions for the World Winners Cup in Alanya?

I want to give everything during the tournament, go as far as possible, and arrive in peak physical condition.

12. What message would you like to send to the team and the supporters?

Thank you to the entire squad for the trust you put in me. I hope we go as far as possible in every competition and leave everything on the sand.

And thank you once again to you and Tanguy for believing in me.

Trust from the team. The will to help out. And fighting until the final second. With that mindset, Patrick heads to Alanya. 🟡⚫