The story of Colin Coosemans reads like a novel. His career featured a meteoric rise, followed by deep lows. At the age of 33, an unexpected crowning moment arrives: he is named Goalkeeper of the Year at the Golden Shoe Gala. “I never dared to dream of this, not even in my wildest dreams,” he says after the award. We sat down with Colin, who rose from third-choice goalkeeper to captain of the Mauves.
Colin, you were named Goalkeeper of the Year. What went through your mind when you heard your name?
I obviously knew I was one of the nominees for the award. I had a good season last year, but you’re always nervous until the moment your name is called. Honestly, I had no idea I was going to win the trophy.
Seeing your children hand you the trophy on stage, what did that mean to you?
It immediately made me emotional. I’ve always said that if I ever won something, I’d love to have them there with me. They’re still quite young, so I couldn’t bring them myself tonight. The fact that they were able to be there anyway makes this trophy even more special.
What does this award mean to you personally?
Usually, a trophy like this is a reward for one good season. For me, it means much more than that. It’s recognition for several years of hard work, for continuing to believe in myself during times when many others no longer did. That’s why this award is about much more than just one strong season.
It is also an award voted on by a panel including journalists, coaches, and former players. How does that make you feel?
From a purely mathematical point of view, about 90% of this appreciation comes from people who have nothing to do with RSC Anderlecht. That makes it a very sincere barometer of the season, or rather of the year 2025 that I experienced. That appreciation, both from inside and outside the club, means a lot to me.
Are there moments from the past year that will always stay with you and that symbolise this award?
I can’t pick just one moment. I’ve always continued to believe and work hard to be able to wear the RSC Anderlecht shirt. In my lowest moments, I would already have been happy just to play a match. Every time I get to play for RSCA is an honour, so I can’t single out one specific game.
Perhaps a favourite save, then?
I immediately think of the save on Aurélien Scheidler’s header away at FC Dender.
Did you ever think you would win this award?
No, not at all. I truly never dared to dream of it, not even in my wildest dreams. When things were difficult, my biggest dream was simply to be able to play for RSC Anderlecht. As I said before, if my story can be a source of motivation for people who are going through a tough period, then that’s wonderful. For me, this award is a huge light at the end of a very long tunnel.
Who would you like to thank?
First and foremost my wife and children, of course, as well as my parents and in-laws. More broadly, my entire family and my friends, many of whom I consider true family. I also want to thank everyone who was there during both the good and the bad times: my teammates, the coaches, and everyone who has guided me and helped me improve over the years - whether they still work at the club or not. I think everyone will recognise their part in this award.
Finally, a message for the fans?
We’ve won two individual trophies tonight, which is great, but it’s time for RSC Anderlecht to win a collective trophy again.
