Celebrating Service and Sporting Spirit at DVV Delft’s New Year’s Gathering
DVV Delft kicked off the new year with a lively gathering that celebrated both the arrival of 2025 and the contributions of two dedicated members.The event, held on January 5th, 2025, saw a large turnout of attendees eager to raise a toast to the new year and bid farewell to outgoing chairman Ries van Dam and board member theo Jansen, who oversaw KNVB affairs.
The festivities commenced with a spirited competition featuring a host of DVV Delft alumni,showcasing their athletic prowess. Following the friendly rivalry, the canteen buzzed with activity as attendees enjoyed refreshments and engaged in lively conversations.
The focus then shifted to honoring van Dam and Jansen for their years of dedicated service. Treasurer Cas van Velzen delivered heartfelt remarks, presenting the departing duo with gift vouchers and gorgeous floral arrangements for their wives. Recognizing their significant contributions to the club, Karin Schrederhof, Alderman for Housing, Healthcare, Educational Housing, and Sports, representing the municipality of Delft, extended her gratitude and presented them with the prestigious golden sports pin, accompanied by certificates of appreciation.
Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, KNVB Ambassador Kees Wenneker surprised the audience by frist acknowledging Cas van velzen’s dedication and bestowing upon him the esteemed title of Member of Merit of the KNVB. Ries van Dam was also honored with this distinction, joining Theo Jansen, who had received the same recognition several years prior. Both Cas and Ries received the pin and certificate from Mr. Wenneker, marking a fitting tribute to their commitment to the sport.
The official proceedings concluded with heartfelt words of thanks from van Dam and Jansen, followed by an opportunity for attendees to mingle and reminisce.
A photographic chronicle of the event, captured by Alex Pronk, can be viewed here.
Honoring Dedication and Sporting spirit: A Conversation with Former DVV Delft Coach, Jan Pieters
Today, we’re joined by Jan Pieters, a highly respected former coach with DVV Delft, to discuss their recent New Year’s gathering and the recognition bestowed upon outgoing chairman ries van Dam and board member Theo Jansen.
Welcome, Jan.
Jan: Thank you for having me. It’s always a pleasure to reminisce about DVV Delft and the amazing people who dedicate themselves to the club.
Let’s talk about the event. It seems like a wonderful way to kick off the new year and celebrate the contributions of Ries and Theo.
Jan: Absolutely.DVV Delft has always been known for its strong sense of community, and this event perfectly exemplified that spirit. You could feel the warmth and gratitude for Ries and Theo throughout the evening.
Ries and Theo both received the prestigious golden sports pin from the municipality, along with KNVB’s Member of Merit recognition. These are significant honors. What are your thoughts on their achievements?
Jan: Ries and Theo have been pillars of this club for years. Ries, as chairman, led with vision and passion, always putting the club’s bestInterests first. Theo, with his unwavering commitment to KNVB affairs, ensured that DVV Delft remained well-represented and supported at the national level. They truly deserve every accolade they receive.
The article mentions Cas van velzen, the club’s treasurer, receiving the KNVB’s Member of Merit award as well. it’s clear that the club is blessed with dedicated individuals.
Jan: Absolutely.Cas has been a driving force behind the scenes, ensuring the club’s financial stability and smooth operations. It’s fantastic to see his dedication recognized.
Looking beyond the individual awards, what broader message do you think this event sends to the DVV Delft community and the wider sporting world?
Jan: I believe it highlights the importance of volunteerism and commitment to community sports. It shows that dedication truly matters, and that individual contributions can have a profound impact on a club’s success.
That’s a powerful message, Jan. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Now, let’s open the discussion to our readers. What are your thoughts on the event? What does recognizing individuals like Ries, Theo, and Cas mean for the future of sports clubs like DVV Delft? Share your opinions in the comments below!
