The Friends Fund (VriendenFonds) of the Friends Lottery fulfils people’s fondest wishes. Dutch people – young or old – who could use a helping hand or who are committed to helping society are put in the spotlight. Behind every club there are countless indispensable volunteers, supporters and other special forces who work passionately for the club (foundation). Throughout the year, clubs can apply to put someone in the spotlight.

Foreign adventure for Eric

A big surprise from the Friends Lottery for Eric van der Weg from Zoetermeer. To thank him for his voluntary work as host on the Blind Stand of ADO The Hague, the club applied for a grant from the Friends Lottery’s Friends Fund. Now Eric gets to fulfil his heart’s desire: Eric gets to attend a football match in England with his family.

I CAN HELP VISUALLY IMPAIRED PEOPLE AND CAN DO THAT AT MY OWN CLUB. THAT GIVES ME SO MUCH ENERGY, PLEASURE AND PRIDE!
Eric van der Weg

Anton Nijboer of ADO The Hague in 'de Maatschappij': ‘Eric has been committed to hosting the Blind Stand for many years. He accompanies visually impaired football fans and ensures that they can attend the match under the best conditions. For example, he provides radios to hear the live coverage of the match and hands out packed lunches. Eric also uses social media to convince new fans to come to the Cars Jeans Stadium. Now it’s time to thank Eric for his efforts by giving him, his wife and his two sons a “foreign football adventure” as a gift. Thanks to the Friends Lottery, we can offer them the trip and tickets to an English football match.’

The cheque was presented to Eric by the visitors of the Blind Stand and ADO The Hague players Robert Zwinkels and Pawel Cibicki. Eric (58) reacts with surprise: