Sportsman of the Year, 2nd Place

Not every recognition comes from the other side of the world. Sometimes it comes from your own backyard — and that makes it feel different. Special in a quieter way. On Thursday evening, Zwemvereniging Sassenheim had three nominations at the Sportprijzen van Teylingen — a local sports award celebrating the best of our community. I was nominated for Sportsman of the Year, following my 9th place finish in the 200m breaststroke at the 2025 World Aquatics Masters Championships in Singapore. I finished 2nd. Honestly, I didn't expect to be on that stage at all. Singapore already felt like the reward. But standing there, in a room full of people from this community — the same people who follow these updates, who sent messages during the competition, who simply believed — I understood that sport is never just about what happens in the water. It's about what it builds around you. Luciana has been with me through every training session, every doubt, every comeback. Frank van Nobelen has coached me with patience and precision, turning a 47-year-old returnee into someone who could compete at world level. And to everyone else — family, friends, sponsors, colleagues, the Landmark community, and the many connections on LinkedIn who follow this journey — your support is woven into every race I swim. This 2nd place belongs to all of you. As for me — I'm already looking ahead. Budapest 2027 is the next chapter, and the work has already begun. The water keeps shaping us. 🌊 #WaterShapesUs