Vote for the sports club that means the most to Amsterdammers with a disability

During the Amsterdam Sports Gala 2025 at the RAI on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, the winner will be announced. Below, the nominees introduce themselves.

Amsterdam Tigers: ice hockey for everyone

Ice hockey club Amsterdam Tigers has more than 400 members and a long waiting list. The para team is a permanent part. Winning the Pluim would, according to chairman Jeroen Kwist, mainly be recognition for the efforts of players and coaches.

The para team competes against teams from Nijmegen and Dordrecht among others and trains at the Jaap Edenhal. Participation is more important than playing matches; the motivation in the team is high. “Our motto is Ice Hockey for life.”

The equipment, including the sleds, has largely been collected by the players themselves. Thanks to campaigns, club support, and involved parents, this was achieved.

Basic Fight Club: kickboxing with courage and fun

Basic Fight Club is part of Stichting Sport Zuid, founded by Mario Pennink. The kickboxing department is only 1 year old and is already nominated for the Pluim. During training sessions, Mario sees how much fun and determination the children have: “It doesnt matter what your disability is. There is a girl who cannot stand well, but she still takes on the fight with the punching bag.”

The club works with volunteers. All income goes to hall rental and materials. The membership fee is deliberately kept low, and children who temporarily cannot pay are allowed to keep coming. “They enter hesitantly, but I see them grow. Boys and girls with self-confidence. They walk upright on the street.”

Stichting Sport Zuid also organizes sports outings, such as beach days or flying lessons. Mario hopes the nomination will bring more visibility, new players, and extra coaches. His dream is to have his own field and clubhouse where children can meet and cook together.

AKC Blauw-Wit: a close-knit G-team in the middle of the city

The G-team of AKC Blauw-Wit has existed for more than 20 years and belongs to a club that has been in the Jan van Galenstraat neighborhood for over a century. Coach Jermica Sampimon and volunteer José van Munster are closely involved with the group. José says: “A very diverse group. Not only in terms of background but also in terms of disability. A very close-knit group as well.”

The team trains weekly and plays competitions once a month, both indoors and outdoors. Because there are few G-teams around Amsterdam, the club often travels further for matches. “Most players are quite competitive. One of the men recently said: If we dont become champions, I wont participate anymore.”

New players and extra coaches are welcome. The nomination helps increase visibility and attract more members. Besides training, the club organizes outings and the team participates every two years in the Special Olympics, a sporty and enjoyable multi-day event that feels like a small vacation.

Voting from December 1

You can cast your vote until January 5 for one of the 3 nominated clubs for the Amsterdamse Pluim 2025. Additionally, you can help decide who receives a Fanny award this year in the categories Sportsman, Sportswoman, Sports Team, Top Sports Association, Coach, and Talent of the Year. The results will be announced during the Amsterdam Sports Gala on January 21 at the RAI.

The gala celebrates the highlights in Amsterdam sports. The best top sports association is chosen, champions are introduced, and the Paulien van Deutekom Award goes to someone who stands out through special commitment and development. More information can be found on the Topsport Amsterdam website.