More Than an Athlete: Faye Janse’s Vision Beyond the Field

By Dr. Brittney Clinton | Wednesday, February 4, 2026 | SportsTalk

“Across the Atlantic: The Global Grit of Faye Janse” 

A 4-Week Online Feature Series Interviewed by Dr. Brittney Clinton 

Behind the athlete’s jersey is a visionary with aspirations that extend far beyond the field.  Faye Janse is intentional about building a life that integrates sport, education, leadership, and  global impact. In this feature, she shares how her identity transcends competition and how she is  actively preparing for a future defined by purpose, influence, and service. 

Dr. Brittney Clinton: How do you want to be remembered as a teammate and student-athlete at  Wake Forest? 

Faye Janse: I want to be remembered as someone who was always there for everyone— someone people could trust and count on. Someone who worked hard and made the people  around her better. I hope they remember that I put my team above myself, that I was both a  friend and family, that I knew my worth while respecting theirs, and that I could make people  laugh. Above all, I hope they remember me as altruistic towards all mankind. 

Dr. Brittney Clinton: In what ways do you hope your journey inspires other young athletes— especially those from abroad? 

Faye Janse: I hope my journey inspires them to step out of their comfort zone and just go for it.  There’s always a way back, but you’ll regret it if you never try. Trust your gut, don’t overthink,  and take the leap. You'll learn and grow the most when you’re surrounded by people who are  different from you in a new environment. 

Don’t play it safe. The safe space isn’t where you grow the most. It’s your life—don’t let anyone  else control it. People may be sad if you move abroad, but you’ll end up appreciating your  friendships and your family even more, and it will feel even more special when you return. 

Dr. Brittney Clinton: How has hockey prepared you for life beyond the field? 

Faye Janse: Hockey has prepared me for basically everything in life, though it’s hard to explain  in words. It’s more of a feeling. It’s taught me the value of connections and genuine teamwork,  and how to work with people from all kinds of backgrounds. It’s taught me to accept people as  they are, to guide and support them through my actions and behavior, and to understand that you  can’t change anyone if they’re not ready or willing to change themselves. These lessons have  shaped how I interact with others on and off the field. 

Dr. Brittney Clinton: What passions or goals are you pursuing alongside athletics and  academics? 

Faye Janse: I love sharing my international student-athlete experience on social media,  especially TikTok and Instagram (@fayejanse). It’s a way to be authentic, look back on my 

journey, track my own growth, and inspire others who want to study abroad and play sports in  another country for example. I’m also hoping to grow my social media and eventually launch my  own business through it. 

Travel is another passion of mine. I want to see more of the world, connect with people in  different countries, and volunteer to help communities where I can. Combining athletics,  academics, and these passions helps me grow as a person and broaden my perspective. 

Dr. Brittney Clinton: If you could speak directly to your younger self in The Netherlands, what  would you say? 

Faye Janse: I’d tell her that it will all work out. Keep working hard like you always do, and if  one door closes, three others will open. Take every moment in, because time really does fly when you’re having fun. Trust yourself, even when others doubt you, and keep going—you’ll get there, and one day it will all make sense. You don’t have to explain yourself to anyone; it only has to make sense to you, and that’s what matters most. You’ll learn who you are, meet incredible people, and realize that home isn’t just a place, but the connections you build. And keep working hard, don’t doubt yourself so much, and don’t worry about your English.  One day, the things you’re scared of now will be the things you’re most proud of.

Faye Janse is proof that being an athlete is just one chapter of a much larger story. With  clarity, humility, and vision, she is shaping a legacy that reaches beyond wins and statistics. As  she continues to evolve, Faye stands as a powerful reminder that true impact is measured not  only by performance—but by purpose. 

Follow Faye Janse’s global journey beyond the field— where sport, culture, and purpose intersect. Experience her international explorations and  student-athlete life by connecting on TikTok and Instagram @fayejanse. 

For academic or  professional inquiries, Faye may be reached directly at jansfe23@wfu.edu.

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Dr. Brittney Clinton is a content educational practitioner currently serving as an Associate Professor at Westcliff University, Dissertation Committee Member, independent published author, and compassionate leader that attracts other professionals, scholars, and individuals in the community with a devoted purpose to empower, educate, and support others. Previously, Dr. Clinton served various leadership roles in Winston-Salem, NC with the following organizations: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc and The Order of the Eastern Star PHA 30th District. Dr. Clinton currently serves as a board member for the city of Winston-Salem, NC Appearance and Commission Board. Dr. Clinton graduated from the following prestigious institutions: Winston-Salem State University, B.A. Sociology/Elementary Education 2009, Strayer University, MA Education Leadership and Management 2012, and Capella University, Ed. D Education Leadership and Management 2015. Dr. Clinton founded the motto “Continue to be a beacon of light”; which is implemented daily while effectively illuminating a successful path for others.

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