Hi there,
I am a fan of football (soccer for the Americans 😉). From the age of eight to twenty three, I sat biweekly in the stands at FC Groningen (the local team) with my father.
When our team scored a goal, I climbed the fences. With a loss, the atmosphere was grim with hooligans fighting each other and the local police.
As a passionate fan, I cried when Groningen was relegated to a lower division in 1997. For the club, however, it was an unexpected advantage. With talented players, less stress, better policy and some luck, the club rebuilt itself.
Arjen Robben was a lucky shot. A football player who had broken through at every club. Together with my father, I saw him make his debut against Feyenoord on December 17, 2000.
After a career with clubs such as PSV, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and numerous awards, Robben announced in 2020 that he would return to play football at FC Groningen.
He barely participated, but at the end of the season he made an impression in a game against FC Emmen. Eager analysts even speculated that coach Frank de Boer should select him for the European Championship this year.
What motivated Robben to train so maniacally to want to play football at the age of 37? His trophy cabinet and wallet are already well filled.
I think passion for the game and love for the club.
That’s how I feel too. Not when it comes to my football qualities or the love for FC Groningen. But in writing articles, making podcasts, and recording videos. The future of mankind, the role of technology, and the ethical issues; they fascinate me immensely.
Secretly, I compare myself with Arjen Robben. Other skills, way less money in the bank account, but the same kind of drive.
Let’s continue with the newsletter, enjoy reading!
– Peter Joosten
