In de Vlaardingen Doen Podcast vertellen wij het verhaal Vlaardingen. De stad waar geschiedenis vernieuwing ontmoet. Waar de haring- en visserijhistorie voortleeft in een bruisende mix van food, innovatie, groen en doen

Our latest discussion takes you on a winding journey through the layers of urban administration and community engagement. We kicked off with an amusing encounter with the chauffeur von Kramer, setting the tone for a conversation filled with charm and insight. As we delved into the complexities of the megathon cement project, the laughter flowed freely as we navigated through the bureaucratic labyrinth that often accompanies such large-scale endeavors. You’ll find our playful banter about the safety regulations and their sometimes comical interpretations quite relatable, especially in the context of public spaces like Van Heutz park, where history and mystery intertwine.

Moving deeper into the episode, we examined the significance of voting as a crucial element of civic duty. Through vivid storytelling, we illustrated how the Westlake area serves as a microcosm of societal values, where every vote tells a story. You could almost feel the pulse of the community as we recounted personal experiences and the electric atmosphere during election season. Our reflections on the interplay between individual action and collective responsibility were both serious and light-hearted, reminding you that our choices shape the world around us.

In the final stretch of our dialogue, we turned our attention to the environmental concerns that accompany urban development. The imagery of the Hochkammer and the dieweicher cake water center became a focal point for discussing sustainable practices. We tackled the challenges head-on, using humor as a tool to make the difficult topics more accessible. I hope you found our insights invigorating, as we wrapped up with a call to embrace our roles as stewards of the environment. The laughter, the stories, and the insights coalesced into a rich tapestry that I believe will resonate with you long after the episode ends.

Takeaways:

• In Vlaardingen zijn vrijwilligers van cruciaal belang voor de sportgemeenschap en verdienen waardering.
• Gerlize van Pienbroek is verkozen tot vrijwilliger van het jaar voor haar inzet in de sport.
• De turnvereniging VG Dynamiek biedt trainingen aan diverse leeftijdsgroepen en niveaus, van kleuters tot volwassenen.
• De vrijwilligersfunctie vereist veel vrije tijd en toewijding, vaak naast reguliere werkzaamheden.
• Het enthousiasme van jonge sporters in de turnhal is een belangrijke motivator voor trainers zoals Gerlize.
• Sportprijzen zoals de Sport Awards zijn essentieel voor het erkennen van de inzet van sporters en vrijwilligers.

The core focus of this dialogue revolves around the recognition of Gerlize van Pienbroek as the Volunteer of the Year at the Vlaardingen Sports Awards 2025. Throughout our conversation, we delve into Gerlize's profound commitment to volunteerism within the realm of sports, particularly through her role as a trainer at VG Dynamiek, the sole gymnastics club in Vlaardingen. Gerlize articulates her belief in the indispensable nature of volunteers, asserting that without their dedication, sports would be significantly hindered. As we explore her experiences and the substantial impact of volunteer efforts on the local sports community, she emphasizes the importance of fostering young talent and the joy derived from engaging with aspiring athletes. Ultimately, this episode underscores the vital role of community support in enriching the sporting landscape of Vlaardingen.

In an enlightening dialogue, Rik Bouman converses with Gerlize van Pienbroek, who has recently been lauded as the Volunteer of the Year during the Vlaardingen Sports Awards 2025. Gerlize candidly shares her astonishment at being selected for this honor, highlighting the often overlooked yet crucial contributions of volunteers within the sporting community. She articulates a profound respect for volunteers, recognizing them as the backbone of sports organizations, whose tireless efforts often go unrecognized but are essential for the vitality of sports activities. Gerlize’s own journey as a coach at VG Dynamiek, the sole gymnastics club in Vlaardingen, is interwoven throughout the episode as she reflects on her long-standing relationship with the sport, which has been a significant part of her life since childhood.

The conversation provides an in-depth look at the operations of Dynamiek, where Gerlize trains a diverse group of participants ranging from young children to competitive gymnasts. She discusses the various levels of training offered and the club’s commitment to inclusivity and fostering a love for gymnastics in all its members. Gerlize expresses her passion for coaching, revealing the joy she finds in nurturing young athletes and witnessing their growth. The dynamics within the gymnastics hall are described as lively and engaging, where children are encouraged to explore and enjoy the sport in a supportive environment. Gerlize further elaborates on the complexities of gymnastics, including the technical aspects of scoring and the significance of understanding the sport’s various components, which she strives to ensure her students grasp.

As the episode draws to a close, Gerlize articulates her hopes for the future of sports in Vlaardingen, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and the need for ongoing support for local sports initiatives. She advocates for stronger connections between sports clubs and their communities, positing that collaborative efforts can lead to more effective solutions for the challenges faced by these organizations. Gerlize's insights resonate as she embodies the spirit of volunteerism, reminding listeners of the invaluable impact that dedicated individuals can have on fostering athletic development and community spirit. The discussion ultimately serves to inspire and motivate others to recognize and appreciate the vital role that volunteers play in the sports landscape.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• VG Dynamiek
• Vlaardingen in Beweging

In de Vlaardingen Doen Podcast vertellen wij het verhaal Vlaardingen. De stad waar geschiedenis vernieuwing ontmoet. Waar de haring- en visserijhistorie voortleeft in een bruisende mix van food, innovatie, groen en doen



Podcastmaker en interviewer: Rik Bouman

Damian Doumenis! Het sport talent van Vlaardingen op weg naar de Olympische Spelen ?

https://www.vlaardingen.nl/Onderwerpen/Sporten_en_bewegen/Vlaardingse_Sport_Awards

https://stichtingvib.nl/

https://stadsgehoorzaal.nl/

The episode centers on the recent Vlaardingen Sports Awards, where Damien Domenis was honored as the Sporttalent of Vlaardingen for the year 2024. In a detailed discussion, we explore Damien’s journey in water polo, his notable achievements, and the significance of his recognition amidst strong competition. He reflects on the emotional experience of receiving the award, particularly given the caliber of his fellow nominees. Additionally, we delve into the broader implications of his success for the local sports community and the aspirations he harbors for future Olympic participation. Throughout the conversation, Damien emphasizes the importance of motivation, discipline, and the supportive environment provided by his family and club in shaping his athletic career.

Hosting the recent sports awards ceremony in Vlaardingen, the Stadgehoorzaal provided a fitting backdrop for a night dedicated to celebrating athletic excellence. With a vibrant audience present, the event culminated in the announcement of several prestigious awards, including the highly coveted title of Sporttalent of Vlaardingen for 2024, which was awarded in 2025. The honor was bestowed upon Damien Domenes, a promising water polo athlete whose accomplishments within the sport have garnered significant recognition. This episode centers around Damien's reflections on his triumph, the moments leading up to the ceremony, and the profound impact of this accolade on his burgeoning career.

Initially taken aback by his nomination among such elite competitors, Damien shares his journey of dedication and hard work that has led to his success. The conversation highlights his impressive record, including being the top scorer in the Eredivisie and his selection for the national team, which underscores the breadth of his talent and commitment. The familial aspect of Damien's athleticism is also explored, as he reveals the influence of his parents and sister, all of whom are entrenched in the world of water polo, creating a legacy that fuels his ambition. This familial support is a recurring theme throughout the discussion, illustrating how a nurturing environment can catalyze an athlete's growth.

As the dialogue progresses, Damien provides insights into the rigorous training regimen that characterizes his preparation for competitions. He emphasizes the importance of discipline, resilience, and an unwavering competitive spirit, essential qualities for thriving in the demanding arena of water polo. The conversation then shifts to Damien's aspirations, with an eye towards participating in the Olympics and elevating the Dutch water polo team to new heights. His optimism for the future of Dutch water polo, particularly regarding the youth talent emerging in the sport, reflects a hopeful outlook. This episode not only celebrates Damien's achievements but also serves as an inspiring narrative for aspiring athletes, encapsulating the essence of dedication, hard work, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in sports.

Takeaways:

• The Vlaardingen Sports Awards were held recently, celebrating local sports talent in an esteemed venue.
• Damien Domenis was awarded the title of Sports Talent of the Year for 2024.
• He achieved notable successes, including being a top scorer and participating in national teams.
• Damien's family has a rich history in water polo, influencing his passion for the sport.
• The podcast discusses the importance of discipline and motivation in achieving success in sports.
• Damien expresses aspirations to compete at the Olympic level, specifically aiming for 2032.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• ZVVS
• Barendrecht
• ZPB
• VFC
• ZVL
• De Zijl
• Team NL

Dr. Cora Laan (1968) is docent Geschiedenis Groen van Prinstererlyceum in Vlaardingen.

In 2003 promoveerde zij aan de Erasmus Universiteit op het proefschrift: Drank & Drinkgerei, een archeologisch en cultuurhistorisch onderzoek naar de alledaagse drinkcultuur van de 18de-eeuwse Hollanders.

Ze zit in het bestuur van cultuurhuis KADE40 en de stichting Geuzenpenning en is zij een van de oprichters van de Stichting Kracht van Vrouwen Vlaardingen.

Renske Verbeek (1979) is sinds 2015 directeur van de Vlaardingse Stadspodia.

Zij leidde het theater vanuit een failliete situatie door de coronacrises heen.

Renske is in 2021 door de Big Improvement Day verkozen tot de Meest Positieve Zuid-Hollander.

Ellen Boonstra-de Jong (1954), jarenlang in verschillende functies actief geweest in het ziekenhuis.

Zij schreef het boek "Ziekenhuis Stroomopwaarts".

Sinds 2013 is Ellen secretaris van de VVG, platform voor vrouwen- en gendergeschiedenis.

Hanneke Franken-Wiesebron (1966) is al heel lang ondernemer, omdat ze ook graag zelf de touwtjes in handen heeft.

Sinds 2016 is ze financieel directeur/ mede-eigenaar van InterBouwService, een Vlaardings aannemersbedrijf.

Marjolein van Unen (1962), voormalig judoka en judotrainer. Zij won medailles op de Europese en Wereldkampioenschappen tussen 1981 en 1986. In die periode was het vrouwenjudo nog geen olympische discipline, tot frustratie van Marjolein.

In 1997 leidde zij als eerste vrouwelijke bondscoach een nationale ploeg. Onder haar leiding veroveren de nederlandse judoka's zes olympische medailles en twee wereldtitels.

Willy Atema (1949) is kunsthistoricus en eigenaar van Kunsthistorisch bureau Kunst en Kunde. Vrouwen in de (schilder) kunst is een van de onderwerpen waarin zij zich heeft gespecialiseerd.