Koster (The Hague, March 13, 1981) enjoyed a distinguished playing career with, among others, Ajax and the Netherlands national team. Following her retirement as a player, she became responsible for Ajax Women as Head of Women's Football. She played an important role in the overall growth of Ajax Women and was instrumental in the further positioning and professionalisation of women's football within the club. During the second half of the 2024/2025 season, Koster took a sabbatical. During that period, Dolf Roks and Loïs Schenkel assumed a large part of her responsibilities. Following her return, work began on a new organisational structure aimed at supporting the continued growth and development of women's football at Ajax. This resulted in the creation of the new strategic role, while Dolf Roks will remain Technical Manager and Loïs Schenkel will continue in her role as Women's Football Manager.
Daphne Koster: "I have witnessed Ajax Women being established, growing and becoming more professional from close up. I am proud of the role I have been able to play in that journey. That development continually requires vision, direction, and the courage not only to look ahead, but also to make the decisions needed to keep progressing. In this new role, I want to continue helping shape the strategic direction of women's football at Ajax, with a focus on youth development, performance and international growth. Ultimately, our ambition is for Ajax to be a club where the potential of girls and women is not only recognised, but structurally developed and translated into sporting, commercial and social value, while also strengthening the connection with our supporters."
Menno Geelen: "The continued development of women's football is an important strategic priority for the club. As a player and later in a management role, Daphne has made a significant contribution to the growth and professionalisation of women's football through her passion for the game and her determination. With this strategic position, we are safeguarding her knowledge, experience and vision for the next phase of women's football at Ajax, and we are convinced we have found a strong and future-proof role for her."
