A Fond Farewell: Ron Vlaar Bids Adieu to AZ Alkmaar
Former AZ Alkmaar captain Ron Vlaar will receive a well-deserved send-off from the club’s devoted fans on Thursday, prior to the highly anticipated match against Ajax. the defender, affectionately known as “Ron Beton,” admitted that this emotional farewell wasn’t something he initially anticipated.
Vlaar hung up his boots a year ago, and due to unforeseen circumstances, a proper goodbye ceremony never materialized. “It holds notable meaning for me to finally have this chance to say farewell,” Vlaar shared wiht ESPN. “When AZ reached out last week to gauge my interest, I didn’t hesitate for a moment.”
While Vlaar believed he had moved on from his playing days, the invitation to bid farewell reignited those emotions. “I thought I had closed that chapter, but it turns out I hadn’t,” he explained. “This allows me to truly put it behind me.I was aware that the club desired this, as they had expressed it previously.Though, the timing wasn’t ideal due to the pandemic.”
Vlaar, now actively involved in youth growth, initially thought his time with AZ was complete. “Now, it truly feels ‘done,’ and it was surprisingly difficult to come to terms with that. This farewell is truly special and holds immense significance for me.”
Vlaar’s illustrious career saw him don the AZ Alkmaar jersey in two separate stints, from 2004 to 2006 and again from 2015 to 2021. He also represented Feyenoord and Aston Villa, earning 32 caps for the Dutch national team.
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A Final Farewell: An Exclusive Interview with Ron Vlaar
It’s not every day you get a second chance at saying goodbye, but that’s exactly what’s happening for former AZ Alkmaar captain, ron vlaar, affectionately known as “Ron Beton.” After retiring a year ago, unforeseen circumstances prevented a proper farewell. Thankfully, this Thursday, before the highly anticipated match against Ajax, the club is finally giving Vlaar the send-off he deserves.
I sat down with Ron to discuss his emotional return to the AFAS Stadion and what this farewell means to him.
Me: Ron, welcome. It’s fantastic to have you here. When you initially hung up your boots, I’m sure you dreamed of a proper goodbye. How does it feel knowing that dream is finally coming true?
Ron Vlaar: It’s a feeling I can’t quite describe, truly. I’ve moved on to a new chapter in my life, focusing on youth development, but when AZ reached out, it unearthed emotions I truly thoght were buried. It’s a chance to close a chapter, to truly put my playing days behind me.
Me: I read in the ESPN article that you initially thought you were done with AZ. What changed your mind when they approached you about this farewell?
Ron Vlaar: You know, I always felt a deep connection with AZ. They offered me the opportunity to play twice in my career, and both times I embraced it wholeheartedly. The club wanted to do this before, but ultimately, the timing wasn’t right due to the pandemic. When they approached me this time, it felt right. This wasn’t just about me. It was about respecting the fans, the club, and the memories we shared.
Me: Speaking of the fans, I bet the atmosphere at the AFAS Stadion on Thursday will be electric. Do you have any special message for them?
Ron Vlaar: The fans were incredible throughout my two stints with AZ. Their support fueled our successes, and I felt a bond with them that transcended the player-fan dynamic. my message to them is simple: Thank you. Thank you for the unwavering support, the chants, the energy. You made playing for AZ Alkmaar an unforgettable experience.
Me: Ron, through your career, you accomplished so much – two stints with AZ, representing Feyenoord and Aston Villa, earning 32 caps for the Dutch national team. Looking back, what are you moast proud of?
Ron Vlaar: Every accomplishment holds a special meaning, but honestly, I’m proudest of the resilience I showed throughout my career. there were highs and lows, injuries and setbacks, but I never gave up. That mentality, that fighting spirit, that’s what defines me as a player.
Me: That’s truly inspiring,Ron.
Now, I’m curious, knowing your passion for youth football development, where do you see yourself five years from now?
Ron Vlaar: I’m completely dedicated to nurturing young talent. I see myself guiding the next generation of footballers, instilling in them the values of hard work, discipline, and a deep love for the game. That’s where my heart lies now.
This Thursday isn’t just a farewell, it’s a celebration.A celebration of Ron Vlaar’s legacy at AZ Alkmaar and his indelible mark on Dutch football. it’s a chance for fans to express their gratitude and for Vlaar to reflect on a remarkable career.
Let’s hear from you! Do you have any memories of Ron Vlaar at AZ Alkmaar? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
