These are Louise’s five favourites — a proud player of Ladies 7 and (luckily for me) one of the people I get to coach this season. And since I obviously like to know who I’m dealing with, I asked her to share her five favourites. What followed was a fascinating glimpse into the mind of someone who effortlessly moves between philosophy, fries and fierce serves. Let’s begin!
Louise’s favourite film is Snatch — that wonderfully chaotic British crime comedy where diamonds go missing, boxing matches spiral out of control, and Brad Pitt sports an Irish accent that drives even native speakers to despair. It’s the perfect choice for someone who enjoys sharp humour, bizarre twists, and characters who look just a bit too casual while everything around them explodes. In short: exactly the kind of energy you want in an outside hitter.
Her favourite book is Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami — a novel you don’t just read, but experience, as if you’ve wandered into a dream where logic has taken a voluntary holiday. The story follows a boy who runs away from home, an old man who talks to cats, and a world where music and memories turn fluid. The fact that Louise calls this her favourite book says a lot: she loves mystery, the inexplicable, and stories that don’t necessarily need to be resolved. (Which, admittedly, comes in handy when you play in Ladies 7.)
When it comes to food, Louise keeps things wonderfully real: Flemish fries with Belgian mayonnaise. Not the pale, vinegary Dutch version — no, the proper creamy stuff that practically makes you sing with joy. Belgian mayo, to her, is what espresso is to Italians: a fundamental right.
As for games, she goes for Zenuwen — the card game that lives up to its name the moment anyone gets too competitive. Luckily, Louise can handle that just fine — probably thanks to years of mental training during volleyball matches that got just a little too tense.
From food and card games to travel — her true passion. Her favourite country is Morocco: colourful, warm, filled with the scent of mint, spices and adventure. No wonder she loves wandering there; it’s the perfect place for someone with a restless spirit and a camera at the ready. Because that camera? It’s her essential travel companion. While others collect souvenirs, Louise collects images, moments and stories — probably with the same patience she has when waiting for the perfect set.
And when she’s not playing volleyball or travelling, you’ll most likely find her somewhere with a camera in her hand, a smile on her face, and a portion of fries within easy reach — ready to capture life as it is: a little messy, full of surprises, but always full of flavour.
