He is perhaps the most famous supporter of Brabant. Jan van de Pas, better known as Toeter Jan, is regularly in the stands at FC Eindhoven and Jong PSV. But his favorite club is Nemelaer. Many goalkeepers of the opposing team are disappointed by the presence of Toeter Jan, but in Haaren he is a much appreciated fan and volunteer. “We only have to ask Jan something, or he will do it.”
Also this Sunday, Jan first traveled with his car to the sports park of Nemelaer, to board the players bus there. “I had already prepared my stuff a few days earlier, because I help at the Haaren fair. What’s in my backpack? Five horns, a banner and this time dry clothes. If we win and something crazy happens, then Can I change my clothes before the return journey?”
When the Nemelaer players enter the field for the playoff final against EVV Echt, Toeter Jan gives them all a high five. A little later, when part of the field is full of wisps after an atmospheric action, Jan is quick to clean up. After the first whistle, he takes place in his flag-lined box behind the opponent’s goal.
“The more exciting it is, the more I honk.”
He is still reasonably quiet in the first half, but in the second half Jan, who lives in Boxtel, regularly presses one or two horns. “The more exciting it is, the more I honk.” The Nemelaer supporters around him are now used to the sound, the Limburg fans occasionally look a bit annoyed to the side. Jan himself gets little of it. “I always have my earphones in with nice music, today it’s hardstyle. That helps me to concentrate better.”
The honking did not help Nemelaer on Sunday, as EVV Echt wins 2-0. “No matter how Nemelaer performs, I will stand behind my club in good and bad times. Always enthusiastic and positive. I hope other supporters follow that example, because I don’t like to read all that annoying news in the media.”
Chairman Bernd Geerkens proudly looks at Toeter Jan and the approximately 600 supporters along the line. “Nemelaer is a village club with a loyal, close-knit following. Jan is the most famous supporter, it’s great that he is always so enthusiastic. He helps us with many things, a top volunteer.”
