Jeroen Hertzberger concluded his illustrious hockey career with HC Rotterdam by scoring in his final match, a 5-0 victory over Klein Zwitserland. The 39-year-old forward netted his 383rd goal in the Tulp Hoofdklasse to cement his status as the league’s all-time top scorer.
The club had orchestrated an elaborate farewell to honour Hertzberger’s 22-year tenure at the club.
Festivities started over two hours before the match, with dozens of children and HC Rotterdam players accompanying him on his final bicycle ride from St. Michaelschool in Hillegersberg to the Hazelaarweg complex, a route he has taken hundreds of times.
Upon arrival, massive banners were unfurled, and flares were lit as fans applauded, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a grand football stadium entrance. Overwhelmed by the tribute, Hertzberger was seen wiping away a tear.
In the closing minutes, play was halted for a guard of honour formed by both teams. Club chairman Jac Bressers then announced that the stand on the clubhouse side would be renamed the “Hertzberger Stand.”
Additionally, captain Thijs van Dam revealed that Hertzberger’s No. 11 jersey would be retired.
Hertzberger said: “I expected a small gesture or a few kind words, but this was truly overwhelming. The banners, the fireworks, the bike ride, and the presence of so many people… It shows why I love this club so much.”
Hertzberger’s departure marks the end of an era for HC Rotterdam after he wasn’t given another contract by officials.
Since joining the men’s first team in 2003 he has been a pivotal figure, leading the club to a Dutch title in 2013 and an EHL runners-up medal over the years.
