During the mass start event at the Winter Olympics, Jillert Anema stepped in as the coach for the Dutch team, replacing the usual head coach Rintje Ritsma who was absent during the semifinals.
meemetoranje.nl, a Dutch news outlet, reported on the coaching change and the athletes’ performances.
Rintje Ritsma, typically the head coach for the Netherlands at the mass start, was notably absent from the semifinals of the event. His role was taken over by Jillert Anema, the coach for Team AH Zaanlander. On Saturday afternoon, Dutch skaters Jorrit Bergsma and Stijn van de Bunt both qualified for the mass start final. Bergsma secured a strong victory after a solo breakaway in the Milano Speed Skating Stadium.
Anema’s coaching was credited with helping the athletes qualify. Irene Schouten, speaking in the NOS studio, commented that usually only one coach is allowed on the track and that ultimately the decision to have Jillert Anema present was made. Former skater Erben Wennemars explained that Anema’s extensive experience, especially his ability to quickly assess the race positions and make decisions, justified the choice.
Schouten further noted that the athletes likely preferred Anema’s presence due to his vast experience with mass start events. During the race, Van de Bunt employed tactical strategies, creating a gap with support from Belgian skater Bart Swings, who allowed him to lead. They were then joined by Metodej Jilek, forming a leading group that accumulated points in intermediate sprints. Both Anema and Ritsma were seen coaching along the track during the final.
