At the Hague Sports Gala earlier this week, The Hague’s sports community came together to celebrate successes and showcase the power of sports in our city. In the festively decorated Zuiderpark Sports Campus, the achievements of The Hague athletes, coaches, and volunteers were proudly put in the spotlight.
From gold, silver, and bronze at (inter)national tournaments to the indispensable contribution of volunteers on the playing fields: the gala emphasized both the joy and the power of sports. Highlights of the evening included the presentation of the coveted titles for Sportsman, Sportswoman, Sports Team, Sports Coach, Sports Talent, Referee, Sports Volunteer of the Year, and this year, the Lifetime Achievement Award. The show was once again presented by Bas Muijs and co-hosted by Rutger Vermast and was a fitting end to a year full of sporting successes in The Hague. The winners were determined by a combination of public votes and a professional jury.
Alderman for Sports Hilbert Bredemeijer: “We look back on a fantastic year of sports, in which The Hague athletes delivered exceptional performances. The nominees and winners we celebrated at the Hague Sports Gala demonstrate what is possible with passion and perseverance. They get our city moving. Hearty congratulations to all the winners!”
The Hague Sportswoman of the Year – Steffie van der Peet (track cycling)
Steffie van der Peet had an exceptional season. With multiple gold medals in the UCI Track Champions League, European titles in the keirin and team sprint, and a gold medal in the World Championships, she confirmed her status as a fixture at the international top. Her consistent form and impressive focus make her this year’s Sportswoman of the Year.
The Hague Sportsman of the Year – Sem Steijn (football)
For Sem Steijn, 2025 was the breakthrough year. He became the top scorer in the Eredivisie, transferred to Feyenoord, and made his debut for the Dutch national team. With his down-to-earth attitude and recognizable Hague charisma, he became a key player and a crowd favorite. His strong season earned him the title of Sportsman of the Year.
The Hague Sports Team of the Year – HRC (rugby)
The Sports Team of the Year award went to HRC, who managed to win the national title again after eleven years. The team demonstrated a strong mentality by overcoming a deficit in the final against Rotterdam and convincingly becoming champions. The team distinguishes itself through athletic strength, resilience, and a close-knit club culture where elite sport and community go hand in hand.
The Hague Sports Talent of the Year – Yara Akkerman (hockey)
Sixteen-year-old Yara Akkerman has made impressive progress this year. She won the national championship both indoors and on the field with the U18 team (girls under 18) and made her debut for the Women’s 1 team this season. Her talent, speed, and game insight are nationally recognized; a promising player who is rightfully named Sports Talent of the Year.
The Hague Sports Coach of the Year – Sarina Wiegman (football)
Sarina Wiegman has reaffirmed her place among the world’s elite. In a demanding international environment, she led the England team to new successes with determination, composure, and strategic insight. Her consistent performance, strong leadership, and exemplary role make her the Sports Coach of the Year—a title she has now received for the sixth time.
The Hague Referee of the Year – Danny Gerritsen (korfball)
Danny Gerritsen has been refereeing at the highest amateur level within the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNKV) for years and is known for his clear style, insight into the game, and reliable decisions. His appointment for the Dutch Premier League finals underscores his growth and professionalism. This earns him the title of Referee of the Year.
The Hague Sports Volunteer of the Year – Koos Hundepool (martial arts)
Koos Hundepool has been the driving force behind the Martial Arts Center The Hague for years. He mentors young and old alike—from bag training to Parkinson’s boxing—and creates a close-knit community with humor and warmth. With initiatives like “Koffie, Cake & Knalluh,” he brings a unique and connecting element to volunteering.
Koos Hundepool’s reaction: ” It’s incredibly exciting to win, a real surprise. I’ve been on the youth board since I was twelve. It’s in my blood. My message is: keep volunteering. Sports bring people together and keep them connected. I hope to inspire more people to become volunteers. “
Lifetime Achievement Award – Marit Bouwmeester (sailing)
After nearly twenty years at the world’s top, Marit Bouwmeester is ending her impressive career. With four Olympic medals, four world titles, and five European titles, she is the most successful sailor of all time. This year, she also opened the Marit Bouwmeester Academy, where she shares her knowledge with new generations. An extraordinary career, recognized with the lifetime achievement award.
The Hague Sports Gala is an initiative of the Municipality of The Hague; Department of Topsport, Sports Campus & Events.
Photographer: Wouter Vellekoop.