The 2026 WMH Masters World Cup will take place in Schiedam, Netherlands, from July 22 to August 1, bringing together veteran athletes from around the globe. Among the participants is the United States Men’s O‑40 side, a team that blends decades of experience with fresh determination.
Roots of a Dream
Midfielder Terence Maarschalkerweerd, a Seattle native, has been a steady presence on the U.S. roster. He first picked up a stick at nine under coach Murray Anderson, a mentorship that sparked a lifelong passion. Maarschalkerweerd credits his mother, a former South African international, for instilling a love of the game, and he often cites her influence in interviews.
His teammate, defender Aaron Raath, hails from Sebastian, Florida. Raath’s own journey began at twelve, but his talent was evident early, earning a spot on the South African Schools National Team at seventeen and later the university side at twenty. Though he now wears the Stars and Stripes, his heart still flutters at the thought of Cape Town, a city he calls his favorite travel destination.
Both athletes share a common thread of gratitude. Maarschalkerweerd thanks his wife Nicole and their two children for daily encouragement, while Raath acknowledges the sacrifices of his own family. Their stories echo a broader message: Masters hockey offers more than competition; it provides a platform for personal growth and community.
Guiding the squad are head coach Robert Alexander and assistant Ian Rourke, who have shaped the team’s strategy ahead of matches against South Africa, Italy, France and Hong Kong. The schedule promises intense contests, each game a test of endurance and camaraderie.
As the tournament approaches, the players urge newcomers to try Masters hockey, emphasizing the joy of competition and the bonds formed on and off the field. Their shared dream of representing the United States at the highest level fuels every training session.