Ron Vlaar

Ron Peter Vlaar (born 16 February 1985 in Hensbroek, North Holland) is a Dutch footballer who currently plays as a centre back for Dutch Eredivisie club Feyenoord.

Vlaar made his professional debut at the age of 20 for the club AZ. After a successful 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship with Netherlands U20, Vlaar received his first call-up for the Netherlands national team by the Netherlands coach Marco van Basten. Despite the few but promising matches Vlaar played, the youngster was transferred to Feyenoord. Main reason for his move was his personal relationship with AZ coach Louis van Gaal. Vlaar was often compared to Jaap Stam, but due to various injuries the centre back couldn't live up to the expectations as of yet.

Vlaar was an important player in the two Netherlands U21 squads winning the UEFA European Under-21 Football Championship in 2006 and 2007.

Early life

Vlaar was born in Hensbroek, North Holland, the Netherlands. His mother, Margaret, was a handball player, while his father was an amateur football player. Vlaar has two younger sisters, Ellen and Lisan, who are both active in sports as well. Ellen is a fanatic gymnast and Lisan is playing volleyball.

Club career

Youth career

In Hensbroek, Vlaar joined local club Apollo '68 at the age of six. Apollo '68 youth coach Kees Wijte was quickly convinced: "But when he was five, he was already allowed to train with us. You could already...
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