Joël van Kaam

Joël van Kaam (born 8 March 2002) is a Dutch professional footballer who plays as a right-back for Groningen U21. He is set to join ACV Assen ahead of the 2024–25 season.

Career
Van Kaam started playing football in the youth ranks VV Appingedam before transitioning to the youth academy of FC Groningen in 2013. On 12 July 2019, he signed his first professional contract with the club, committing to a two-year deal with an option for an additional year. Regularly featuring in the first team selection, he made his professional debut in the Eredivisie on 8 November 2020, replacing Remco Balk in the 66th minute of a 2–0 away loss against Feyenoord. Just a week later, he earned his first start in the home game against Vitesse.

On 31 August 2021, Van Kaam joined Emmen on loan for the 2021–22 season alongside fellow Groningen-player Kian Slor.

On 5 March 2024, Van Kaam was announced as ACV Assen's signing ahead of the 2024–25 season.

Personal life
Van Kaam was born in the Netherlands to a Dutch father and Brazilian mother. Van Kaam is the younger brother of Daniël van Kaam. When Joël made his professional debut for Groningen, they joined a lineage of brothers who have played for the club's first team, which includes Erwin and Ronald Koeman, and Dominique and Gregoor van Dijk.