Student Isha Soman aims for the end zone

That’s why we’re incredibly proud of our Integral Safety Studies student, Isha Soman, who, together with her club Den Haag Hyena’s, is part of the first-ever Dutch women’s Flag Football team representing the Netherlands at the European Championship in Paris on September 25.

A sport on the rise

Isha’s interest in the sport began through a family member, and now she and her teammates are ready to take on the European Championship. Isha shares: “We’re the first Dutch women’s team to step onto this stage, and that makes it special. We’re building something new together and hopefully laying the foundation for future generations.”

Balancing studies and elite sports 

Combining academics with top-level sports requires planning and perseverance. For Isha, this balance has been surprisingly smooth: “Skills like team communication, decision-making under pressure, and strategic thinking are valuable both on the field and in the classroom. The flexibility of the university also plays a key role. The program actively supports me, making sure my studies and sports complement each other rather than conflict.”

Advice for fellow students

Isha’s advice to students who want to combine academics with elite sports is clear: “Be proactive and communicate early with your lecturers and mentors. When you involve your environment and organize things well, you create space to grow both academically and athletically.” With the championship ahead, her ambition is unmistakable: “I hope we can make a name for ourselves as the first Dutch women’s team at the European Championship.”

We wish Isha and her team the best of luck this Wednesday and proudly cheer them on as they take the field!