Kim van Bennekom (DeCesare), founder of KVB Soccer Consulting, brings a wealth of experience as a former professional soccer player, collegiate coach, and dedicated mentor to student-athletes navigating the college recruiting journey.

A former team captain at Duke University, Kim competed at the NCAA Division I level before continuing her playing career professionally in the NWSL and overseas. She was named Gatorade State Player of the Year for New York, competed in a NCAA D1 National Final with Duke and earned an induction into the New York State High School Soccer Hall of Fame.

With over a decade of coaching experience at both the club and collegiate levels, Kim has served as a Division I Assistant Coach, Division III Head Coach, and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). She’s coached athletes of all levels, ages 8 to 24, and previously ran her own Talent ID and High School Camps, helping young players improve their game and get seen by college programs.

Kim’s passion lies in mentorship. She has taught a countless number of athletes how to connect with college coaches, build soccer resumes, curate highlight videos, and confidently navigate each step of the recruiting timeline. In college, her leadership was recognized with the Duke ACTION Leadership Award, given annually to one student-athlete who exemplifies leadership both on and off the field.

At KVB Soccer Consulting, Kim combines her playing, coaching, and mentoring experience to guide athletes and families with personalized support and honest insight, because the journey to college soccer shouldn’t feel overwhelming, it should be fun and exciting.