KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Dutch business owner in Kansas City is excited as the Netherlands national soccer team prepares to hold its training camp at the KC Current facility.
Els Van Der Meij, who has run Dutch Flowers in the City Market for 25 years, is proud of her roots and can’t wait to welcome the team. “We are proud of our heritage. It’s so great to be on the world stage. How fun!” she said.
The Netherlands team, currently ranked seventh in the world, will be using the KC Current facility as their home base during the World Cup. Van Der Meij mentioned that fans should get ready to see lots of orange, which is the national color of the Netherlands.
Hope and Rivalry
Van Der Meij is optimistic about her team’s chances, hoping they can go far this time after some past disappointments. “We all want to win. Let’s hope the Dutch don’t implode. We often get close but then struggle at the end. But with players like Virgil van Dijk, I think we can make it happen,” she shared.
The florist is also preparing for some friendly banter with fans of the England team, who will also be in town for the event. “I have some playful words for them, but those are best kept off the record,” she joked.
Cultural Exchange
Heather Dressler, a leader in the Daughters of the British Empire in Kansas, believes the World Cup will be a fantastic chance for cultural exchange in Kansas City. “This is great for Kansas City to get on the map. Meeting people from different cultures helps us all grow and learn more about the world,” she said.
With England also participating, Dressler offered a fun tip for locals: “If someone asks, ‘Do you want a cup of tea?’ just say yes!”
Van Der Meij encouraged everyone in Kansas City to embrace this international event. “Be open and welcoming! Everyone is here to enjoy themselves. Let’s celebrate together,” she said.
