The magic of the KNVB Beker is built on the dreams of amateur clubs drawing a professional giant. But when that dream becomes a reality, the logistical and practical challenges of amateur life quickly set in. Page 4 of the October 2013 cup programme features a guest column by VV Capelle manager Theo de Boon, which perfectly captures this bittersweet reality.
Under the headline “We gaan ervan genieten” (We are going to enjoy it), De Boon describes the absolute fever that had gripped his Topklasse club since the draw. They had already caused a massive sensation by knocking out professional side Almere City FC in the previous round. Now, they were heading to the Euroborg. “Special scarves have been made, two VIP buses are driving, and a few buses with supporters to Groningen,” he proudly notes. The club even sent a scout to watch Groningen’s recent home match vs PSV to prepare tactically.
However, the romance of the cup tie clashed harshly with the reality of a midweek evening fixture. De Boon shares a heartbreaking detail: “It is only a pity for all our youth members that it is mid-week, because they wouldn’t be in bed until two o’clock at night and that is just too late.” While the players on the pitch were living out their ultimate footballing fantasies under the floodlights, the kids from their village academy had to stay home because they had school the next morning. It is a beautiful, grounding reminder of what amateur football truly is.
A Look into the Future
Theo de Boon and his men did exactly what they promised: they enjoyed the experience. While VV Capelle fought bravely, the professional quality of FC Groningen ultimately prevailed in a 2-0 victory. The amateur players returned to their day jobs the next morning, and the VIP buses headed back south. But the special scarves printed for this specific match remain cherished collector’s items in Capelle, physical proof of the night their local heroes stepped onto the pristine grass of the Euroborg.