Equal opportunities to exercise

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Over 34 years ago, I crossed paths with Foppe de Haan, and this encounter has had a lasting influence on what I do now. At the age of 16, I was given the chance to play for the A-junior team of sc Heerenveen. After a great time there, I had short stints at sc Heracles and FC Emmen, but a long career as a professional goalkeeper wasn’t in the cards. Foppe de Haan often involved youth players in football clinics, and during that time, the UEFA-C and B courses were started. Teaching and standing in front of a group turned out to be something I greatly enjoyed and found fulfilling.

 

After my "football career," I transitioned to special education. Working with children who need extra attention, where nothing is taken for granted, was an amazing experience. Every day brought new challenges, and every situation was different. In special education, you must always stay sharp and alert, conscious of every step and form of communication. This work demands the same focus and dedication as elite sports. Everyone who works with children needing extra attention and guidance deserves a lot of respect. The hard work pays off when a former student proudly shows their college diploma and mentions that the support from the past contributed to their success. That’s a special feeling. 

 

Many people need that extra push, not only socially, but also physically, for example, due to a disability. It was therefore natural for feeton to support the Foppe Fund with an annual contribution. feeton’s vision, that every child has the right to fun and educational training, perfectly aligns with the mission of the Foppe Fund: ensuring that people with disabilities can participate in sports, both individually and in groups, and especially enjoy the joy that sports bring. 

 

The Paralympic Games recently took place in Paris, and the performances of the Dutch participants were wonderful to witness. It was extra special that some of these athletes were able to develop themselves thanks to the Foppe Fund, resulting in medals at these Games. Of course, it’s not just about the medals, but about providing opportunities to do what brings energy and joy. 

 

On Tuesday, September 17, we at feeton will once again participate in the Foppe Open and donate our annual contribution. Together with all the other donors, we are committed to making the impossible possible and keeping sports accessible to everyone. 

 

It’s a fantastic feeling that feeton has been able to contribute to such wonderful results in this way. 

 


"You never lose. You win or you learn."