Frank Kooiman, Dutch footballer

Frank Kooiman, born on January 13, 1970, is a distinguished Dutch former professional football goalkeeper. Known for his steadfast presence and reliability, Kooiman's career spanned over a decade, making a significant impact across various clubs in the highly competitive Dutch football landscape.

Professional Breakthrough: Debut with Sparta Rotterdam

Kooiman's journey into professional football commenced with a memorable debut on September 25, 1994. This pivotal date marked his first appearance in the top-tier Dutch league, the Eredivisie, for Sparta Rotterdam. The match was a challenging encounter against Vitesse Arnhem, a prominent club at the time.

His entry onto the pitch was particularly notable as he replaced the seasoned and highly respected veteran goalkeeper Edward Metgod. Such a substitution, often necessitated by injury or a tactical shift, thrust the then 24-year-old Kooiman directly into a high-stakes Eredivisie match. The game famously ended in a 2-2 draw, showcasing Kooiman's resilience and immediate capability under pressure in his very first professional outing.

A Distinguished Career in Dutch Professional Football

Following his impactful debut, Frank Kooiman solidified his position at Sparta Rotterdam, establishing himself as a reliable first-choice goalkeeper over several seasons. His talent and consistency did not go unnoticed, leading him to further his career at other significant clubs within the Netherlands.

Kooiman's career path included a notable spell at Willem II, where he continued to demonstrate his goalkeeping prowess and even participated in UEFA Champions League qualifiers, showcasing his abilities on a European stage. He later joined Dutch football giants PSV Eindhoven, serving primarily as a respected backup goalkeeper, contributing to the squad's depth. He concluded his playing days at FC Eindhoven in the Eerste Divisie (the second tier of Dutch football) in 2005, cementing a long and varied career marked by dedication and consistent performance in Dutch professional football.

Frequently Asked Questions About Frank Kooiman's Career

When was Frank Kooiman born?

Frank Kooiman was born on January 13, 1970, in the Netherlands.

What position did Frank Kooiman play in professional football?

He was a professional football goalkeeper, widely recognized for his dependable performances between the posts.

When and where did Frank Kooiman make his professional debut?

His professional debut occurred on September 25, 1994, playing for Sparta Rotterdam in an Eredivisie match against Vitesse Arnhem.

Who did Frank Kooiman replace in his debut match?

During his debut against Vitesse Arnhem, he replaced the experienced veteran goalkeeper Edward Metgod.

Which major clubs did Frank Kooiman play for during his career?

Beyond his formative years at Sparta Rotterdam, Frank Kooiman also played for Willem II, PSV Eindhoven, and FC Eindhoven, marking a significant presence in Dutch professional football.