Hendrik Groot Former Dutch footballer. Date of Birth: 22.04.1938 Country: Netherlands

1. Henk Groot: A Legendary Dutch Forward
2. Breakthrough at Ajax
3. Record-Breaking Season and Success at Feyenoord
4. Return to Ajax and More Triumphs
5. International Career and Retirement
6. Post-Playing Career and Legacy

Henk Groot: A Legendary Dutch Forward

Henk Groot, a former Dutch footballer, began his footballing journey in his hometown of Zaandijk, playing for the local club of the same name. Later, he joined Stormvogels, a semi-professional club, where he played alongside his older brother, Kees Groot.

Breakthrough at Ajax

In 1959, Henk and his brother made the move to Amsterdam's Ajax. Henk's debut came in a match against NEC, which Ajax won 3-0. In his first season, he became the league's top scorer with 38 goals in 33 matches, surpassing his brother's total of 29.

Record-Breaking Season and Success at Feyenoord

The following season, Henk set a new record by scoring 42 goals in 32 league matches, amassing a total of 65 goals in all competitions. He also won the Dutch Cup in 1961. In 1963, Henk was acquired by Feyenoord for a fee of 200,000 guilders. During his two seasons there, he scored 34 goals in 54 matches and helped Feyenoord win the league and cup double in 1964/65.

Return to Ajax and More Triumphs

In 1965, Henk returned to Ajax for a fee of 400,000 guilders. From 1965 to 1969, he made 101 appearances and scored 46 goals. During this time, Ajax won three more league titles (1966, 1967, 1968) and one Dutch Cup (1967).

International Career and Retirement

Henk Groot debuted for the Netherlands national team in 1960 and scored a goal in his first match against Bulgaria. He earned 39 caps and scored 12 goals for his country. His career was cut short in 1969 due to a serious injury sustained in an international match against Poland.

Post-Playing Career and Legacy

After retiring as a player, Henk Groot became a scout for Ajax, specializing in identifying young talent. He is regarded as one of the greatest Dutch forwards of all time, known for his prolific goalscoring and his contributions to Ajax's golden era.