Leusden volunteer awarded Royal distinction for decades of service to sports and safety
A dedicated volunteer from Leusden has been honored with a Royal distinction for his long-standing contributions to local sports, safety, and community projects. Mr. S. Tijmensen’s work has left a lasting impact on the municipality’s social cohesion and infrastructure.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Mr. S. Tijmensen |
| Award | Knight in the Order of Orange-Nassau |
| Presented by | Deputy mayor Marleen Treep |
| Date | February 19, 2026 |
| Volunteer Roles | Groundsman (LTV Leusden), Firefighter (Leusden Fire Department), Coach |
| Years of Service | Over 20 years (2004–2025) |
| Key Contributions | Tennis court maintenance, park upkeep, tournament organization, solar panel installation, firefighting, youth coaching |
| Location | Leusden, Utrecht |
The municipality of Leusden, through its local government, recognizes outstanding contributions to society by awarding Royal distinctions. These honors highlight individuals whose voluntary efforts significantly enhance community well-being, safety, and social cohesion.
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Royal distinction for Mr. S. Tijmensen
Deputy mayor Marleen Treep presented a Royal distinction to Mr. S. Tijmensen on Thursday, February 19, 2026, in a private setting.
He was appointed as a Knight in the Order of Orange-Nassau. The ceremony took place in a small gathering due to his health situation.
A committed volunteer with an impressive track record
Mr. Tijmensen dedicated many years to tennis club LTV Leusden with great devotion. As a groundsman, he professionalized the maintenance of the tennis courts and introduced innovative working methods.
Additionally, he contributed weekly to the maintenance of the park — from court preparation and lighting to green management. He also played a crucial role in organizing tournaments, training sessions, and various projects, including the installation of solar panels.
Broad commitment to society
Besides his work for the tennis club, Mr. Tijmensen was active for many years as a volunteer in several areas. He was involved, among others, in:
- Leusden Fire Department (2004–2025): crew member, head firefighter, driver, commander, and trainer.
- SV Achterveld (2007–2012): youth coach.
With this commitment, he made a valuable contribution to safety, sports development, and social cohesion within the municipality.
Acknowledgment and judgment
The Chapter for Civil Orders emphasizes that Mr. Tijmensen has been committed to society for a long time in an exemplary manner. His involvement, expertise, and years of voluntary work form the basis for his appointment as a Knight in the Order of Orange-Nassau.