Aalsmeer alderman visits kickboxing gala: impressed by sportsmanship

Delegations from the municipality of Aalsmeer and NOC*NSF (Dutch Olympic Committee and Dutch Sports Federation) visited a RINGS kickboxing gala together with the VA on Saturday. Municipalities and the national sports umbrella organisation are important partners for the martial arts sector.

Municipalities largely determine how much scope there is in the Netherlands for martial arts events. In some places, galas and tournaments are welcomed with open arms. In other municipalities there is uncertainty, and anything to do with martial arts is preferably kept out. This is often based on experiences from long ago, or on prejudice. For years, the VA has been working with promoters to win trust. To that end, a guidance document for municipal policy has been developed, among other things. Promoters are actively demonstrating how carefully they prepare their events.

One of the municipalities that is enthusiastic about martial arts events is Aalsmeer. In sports hall De Bloemhof, experienced promoter Milco Lambrecht of the RINGS organisation staged a kickboxing gala last Saturday. It was attended by a party that included alderman for sport (wethouder) Bart Kabout, NOC*NSF representatives Kim Boterenbrood (account manager martial arts) and Marjolein Miltenburg (manager support), and several members of the VA board.

Before the bouts began, the guests were briefed on the state of affairs in Dutch martial arts. Special attention was given to the role of municipalities in safeguarding quality and safety.

Nineteen bouts were on the programme, featuring mainly young Dutch talent. The packed hall followed the exciting bouts enthusiastically. Alderman Kabout and NOC*NSF representative Kim Boterenbrood had the honour of presenting awards to two of the winners. Kabout briefly addressed the audience, saying among other things that he was impressed by the passion and sportsmanship he saw during and around the bouts.

Photos: Faril Jafar