Home » Sport » Turn commentator Hans van Zetten stops at NOS after fuss about statements | Sport

Turn commentator Hans van Zetten stops at NOS after fuss about statements | Sport

sport">The reason for that decision is the fuss that arose after publications about his role in a gymnastics business from 2011, which also involved gymnasts from Pro Patria. Van Zetten is an honorary member of this Zoetermeer gymnastics club and was involved in the matter at the time. Recent publications showed that he had made inappropriate and hurtful comments about the young gymnasts.

sport">For the NOS these statements were reason to sit down with Van Zetten. In that conversation, Van Zetten announced that he would stop working as a freelance commentator. “It is sensible for Hans to conclude to stop and not burden us with this issue,” says Maarten Nooter, editor-in-chief of NOS Sport.

sport">“In 2020 we are still revelations about abuses in the gymnastics world. A NOS commentator must be able to speak and judge about this without prejudice and with respect. And so this is a wise decision, no matter how unfortunate it is that it ends like this after 34 years. ”

Van Zetten apologizes to gymnasts

sport">Van Zetten regrets his statements. The gymnastics specialist comes in a statement with apologies to former gymnasts Verona van der Leur, Suzanne Harmes and Gabrielle Wammes.

sport">“The media have approached me and the NOS in recent weeks about a case from 2012. And in particular about my statements about three former top gymnasts Van der Leur, Harmes and Wammes,” writes Van Zetten.

sport">“Following in the footsteps of the three gymnasts in 2011, this summer many other young women testified about the cross-border training regime of their gymnastics coaches. Minions, intimidation and verbal abuse fell to them. What pain and sorrow came out in that. I read everything and followed all broadcasts up to and including the round table discussion in the House of Representatives. For weeks I walked around with a stomach ache. My gymnast’s heart is still bleeding. ”

sport">“In the light of this current affairs, my judgmental statements from 2012 get even more meaning. In retrospect, I find the sentences harsh and possibly hurtful, and in any case not suitable for what I stand for as a former coach and national coach. ”

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