The Netherlands is the big favorite at every korfball World Cup. Also at the upcoming World Cup from Friday in Taiwan, the Dutch team is only happy with a gold medal. The Netherlands has won ten of the last eleven World Cups, and once Belgium was the strongest. However, the world title is not a given, because the full professionals have to do a lot to be in top form. Physiotherapist Ada Jansen (64) from Bavel is of great importance in this regard.
Ada has never played basketball herself. “No, in the Breda region they are mainly interested in football and hockey. There are no korfball teams here that play at the top level.”
Her interest was aroused when she received a number of korfball players on her treatment table during her work. “I didn’t know anything about korfball at all. When I was invited to watch a match, I was very impressed by the athletes and the dynamic play. There was also a large audience in the stands.”
She first became a physiotherapist at a club, but in 2005 the korfball association KNKV came knocking on the door. Nowadays she is responsible for the medical part together with sports doctor Anne van Vegchel. She is also a listening ear for the members of the national team.
“A serious injury can have a huge impact.”
“You build a relationship of trust with the top athletes you treat. For example, if they get seriously injured, it can have a huge impact. You can easily be out of action for a year. I once experienced that someone had everything in his life put aside for korfball, but suffered a cruciate ligament injury during the first match at a tournament. I am not a psychologist, but they can vent to me. When they eventually return to the hall or on the field, it is a special feeling. “
During the World Cup in Taiwan, TeamNL is the big favorite. Of the eleven previous editions, the Netherlands won ten, once Belgium was the strongest. “We are top favorites and we all have players who do a lot for it. However, the sport is becoming increasingly global. Youth teams have lost to Taiwan and are having a hard time against Belgium, which means that the competition is strong. And also in We see growth in other countries. A good development for the sport.”
“I hope to be there for a long time.”
At 64 years old, Ada has a lot of experience in the national selection. “I have been there for many years now and continue to enjoy working among the young top athletes. I hope to be there for a long time, but if they think I am no longer functioning well or am too old, I am happy to stand by my place for a younger successor. I will then follow the performance as a supporter.”