From Aruba to Kloetinge: the journey of goalkeeper Matthew Lentink

On a windy evening in the modest Kloetinge‑stadium, goalkeeper Matthew Lentink, 33, stands ready between the posts as the referee blows the whistle. Jan Willem, journalist at VI, describes a club career that offers little excitement but hides an extraordinary international journey.

Lentink began his youth training at RBC Roosendaal. He then played for VV Goes, VV Kloetinge, Zeelandia and VC Vlissingen, before returning to both Goes and Kloetinge.

International adventures

Born in Oranjestad, the 33‑year‑old goalkeeper represents Aruba at international level. With thirty caps he is one of the most experienced players of the Aruban Football Association.

At six years old Lentink left his birthplace Aruba to settle in the Netherlands. This early move gave him access to the Dutch club structure.

Lentink remembers the WK Amsterdam, a tournament for players with foreign heritage. ‘In the past there was a tournament, the WK Amsterdam. It was organized for people with a foreign origin. When I was sixteen, I also took part. I had sent a message and was allowed to join. There were also boys in that team who were already in the national squad. Raymond Baten, Ronald Gómez.’

His participation did not immediately result in a call‑up. ‘No, it was only a few years later that I suddenly got a phone call. So it finally worked out. Earlier I had already tried through the association, but that did not go as desired.’

Lentink’s story shows how the Aruban Football Association can scout talent across the ocean. His combination of a modest club career and a rich international experience makes him a unique ambassador for Aruban football.