Sem Wensveen, 19, has traveled from Loenen, a small town in the Netherlands, to be part of Target USA CUP for the third summer in a row. What started as a guest playing opportunity has now grown into something much bigger.
“I got to know Timon, the head of transportation, through coaching at my local club,” Sem said. “He told me about the tournament and invited me to join—and of course, I couldn’t say no.”
Sem returned the next year, and now in his third visit, he’s taken on a new role: intern with the National Sports Center. He’s helping with everything from transportation to field managing, and helped run the ID College Combine.
“That taught me a lot—how much work goes into big events like this,” he said.
Even while working, Sem is playing once again—this time with Palmeiras, a team from Brazil. “They share the same passion for the game. It’s been a great connection.”
Balancing work and soccer can be tiring, but Sem sees the upside: “Everyone on staff gives their all. I might be sore from games, but we’re all working hard together. And the golf cart rides to my games help!”
When asked what he misses from home, his answer is clear: “A ‘broodje kaas’—a simple Dutch cheese sandwich. I eat one for breakfast every day. Dutch cheese is the best.”
Sem’s story is a perfect example of what makes Target USA CUP so special—bringing the world together through soccer, friendships, and new experiences.
