Former speed skater Marrit Leenstra has returned to the Winter Olympics, this time contributing in an organizational capacity in Italy, where several members of her family are also involved in the event.
According to NOS Schaatsen, Leenstra stands on the Olympic stage eight years after retiring from competitive skating. She currently lives in Italy with her husband Matteo Anesi, who is the Italian national team coach, while her father-in-law works with the international skating union and her brother-in-law serves as a skating judge. This family involvement has made the Olympic experience especially meaningful for her.
Leenstra’s role as Athlete Service Coordinator involves providing a range of support functions, including helping athletes with questions and ensuring coaches complete required registrations. The organizers specifically sought former skaters like Leenstra, Enrico Fabris, and Lorenzo Fortunato to help manage logistical aspects given the temporary ice rink in Milan and the complex organization required.
Her husband highlighted that Leenstra’s positive attitude and prior experience training with the Italian team made her a natural choice for this position. While Leenstra’s family members continue their established roles during the Games, she is experiencing the Olympics from a new perspective, contributing in various organizational areas.
The family connection extends beyond work, as the couple discussed how they are managing childcare during the event, with grandparents stepping in to help care for their children. This allows Leenstra and her husband to focus fully on their professional responsibilities at the Games.
Although Leenstra no longer competes, she still follows the sport closely and expressed admiration for athletes such as the Dutch skater Femke Kok. She appreciates the extensive support network behind each athlete, which is often unnoticed when competing herself.
