The SEW handball players have not been able to ensure success after the dismissal of Arthur Langedijk. On a visit to Volendam, the team from Nibbixwoud lost 30-29. This puts SEW at the bottom of the championship group.
Last week SEW took over after three years sudden farewell to coach Langedijk† The coach’s contract expired after the season, but due to a lack of ‘chemistry’, the 55-year-old coach had to pack his bags.
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The club hoped that the dismissal would create a shock effect within the group of players to make another shot at fourth place, which entitles them to a European ticket. The match at Volendam seemed like the perfect match to wash away the bitter aftertaste of the past few weeks, but that turned out differently.
SEW lagged behind in Volendam and was unable to bring the number seven of the regular competition to their knees. The home side held the lead throughout the game and kept a gap of several points each time. Things got tense in the final phase, but the home team was too strong for SEW 30-29.
The team from Nibbixwoud is stuck at one point in the championship group due to the defeat. Volendam, which is now on six points, joins Quintus, which has only one point more.
Tension at SEW for some time
Interim trainer Rik Boonkamp indicated that he has already been polled earlier this season. “About three months ago I was asked if they could count on me if SEW got into a situation when they had to say goodbye to Arthur. Then I had to think about it. I’ve done it twice before and then said I would do it,” said Boonkamp.
Player Isa op den Kelder confirms that there was a moment earlier this season when there were doubts about continuing with Langedijk. The trainer then stayed on and that is why the dismissal with five games to go was unexpected for Op den Kelder. “I didn’t expect this. This came as a shock.”
On Monday, a report can be seen in NH Sport about Langedijk’s departure from SEW.