The stars of Dutch football came out to applaud and pay tribute to Holland’s recently retired world class goalkeeper, Edwin van der Sar. Supporters from many countries were inside the Amsterdam ArenA to honour a footballing legend.

Inside the Amsterdam ArenA was a sell out crowd of nearly 52,000, and wow they made their presence felt and v/d Sar was visibly moved by his reception. A man known in Holland as the “Ijskonijn” which translates as “Ice Rabbit” melted just a little as a beaming smile broke across his face, he was truly enjoying his night in the spotlight. His name was chanted, every touch he had was cheered, it really was a magnificent send off to a great player.

Van der Sar and the two Sirs, Ferguson and Charlton

The players involved in last nights football where some of the Dutch greats spanning the last fifteen years. The likes of Bergkamp, Davids, Rijkard, the de Boer brothers, Kluivert, a real whose who of Dutch football, along side these Dutch giants were some of Manchester United’s star players including Rooney, Vidic, Giggs and Ferdinand.

Not only were there the great players, but great managers too. Sir Alex Ferguson who managed the Dream Team: The great Dutch manager of Louis van Gaal and Guus Hiddink; the latter having some words of wisdom for v/d Sar throughout the evenings festivities.

Van der Sar enjoying his night

Despite what talent there was on the pitch, the football as per usual with these events was lack lustre to say the very least, it was all taken very easily and with a great deal of humour from all involved. The only boos of the night came when Dirk Kuyt and Pierre van Hooijdonk were announced, this was due to being former Feyenoord players. That, however, was soon forgotten by all as it was a celebration and that is what happened, several Mexican waves passed around the stadium, everybody smiling, a brilliant atmosphere.

A shock for me was seeing former ADO manager John van den Brom playing for Ajax as I had forgotten all about his time at that club.

A nice touch was when they presented the European Champions League trophy to the Ajax team of 95.

This must have brought back great memories to v/d Sar as he won that trophy not only with Ajax, but also with Manchester United. Unfortunately for him, he could have been a triple winner with United if they had not met Barcelona and the inspirational Messi.

The final moment of the evening was truly spectacular as v/d Sar stood in front of one of the goals as a series of loud thunder flashes and fireworks were set off illuminating the ArenA. For this special tribute he was joined on the pitch by his wife and kids who all looked staggered and bemused by it all.

All I can say is that van der Sar did deserve something special after his career and last night he got what he deserved, a memorable night that he’ll never forget, marking the end of a glittering and special job between the sticks. A player who will no doubt be missed by fans everywhere.

Van der Sar with mentor Guus Hiddink

On the train home I met some Spanish supporters who were also heading back to The Hague. They were not Ajax fans but just football fans and just wanted to be there to witness a great occasion like this. They said it was one of their best ever nights at a football match. I asked them had they ever been to ADO yet. They said no. So I delivered my speech and I am going to help them with getting tickets for a future game.

Text & Photo’s by Neal McClimon

neal@thehagueonline.com

www.itpphotography.com

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