Heracles staff join inclusive Coaches on Tour event in Lichtenvoorde

Heracles Almelo staff took part in a Coaches on Tour event for players with disabilities at Sportpark De Treffer in Lichtenvoorde on Wednesday evening. The tournament, hosted on Longa ’30’s pitches, was one of six staged across the Netherlands that night.

Representatives from FC Twente, De Graafschap, Vitesse, NEC, Go Ahead Eagles and Heracles attended, alongside referees from professional football. Participants played matches, took penalties and met players and staff members, with shirts and autographs also part of the programme.

Heracles coach Vincent Heilmann said the evening was about creating enjoyment and lasting memories for the participants. He praised the players’ interaction and the energy provided by their supervisors. René Kolmschot, a long-time participant in Coaches on Tour with the Heracles staff, said the enthusiasm of the players made the event special and gave those involved in professional football an opportunity to give something back.

Coaches on Tour is organised by Coaches Betaald Voetbal, the KNVB, Fonds Gehandicaptensport and the professional referees’ association BSBV. The initiative began in 1983 as the Barendrecht tournament. Its format was later changed from one central competition to events at six locations, allowing more players with disabilities to participate and giving professional coaches the chance to support a tournament in their own region.