Merel Conijn and Olympic gold medalist Ning Zhongyan will join Team Novus to train under coach Johan de Wit in the Netherlands.
De Telegraaf, published in the Netherlands, reports on the recent changes in the training arrangements for prominent speed skaters.
Merel Conijn, the silver medalist in the five-kilometer race at the Milan Winter Games, is leaving Team Albert Heijn Zaanlander to join Team Novus. At 24 years old, Conijn aims to advance her career by working with Johan de Wit, a coach she has known since her teenage years. The move represents a return to familiar support, as she had previously worked with members of the staff during her early career.
Olympic champion Ning Zhongyan will also be training at Team Novus under de Wit’s guidance. Ning, who captured gold in the skate mile at the last Winter Olympics in Milan, formed a strong bond with De Wit during his time in Japan. With De Wit’s recent relocation to the Netherlands and his decision to work full-time at Team Novus, the opportunity arose for Ning to join the Dutch team, fulfilling a long-held wish to continue their collaboration.
Johan de Wit expressed high expectations for Team Novus despite its recent establishment. He emphasized the team’s ambition to compete at the highest level, aiming to achieve victories and break records. De Wit highlighted that although the team is new, it is composed of athletes with strong international potential, underscoring a commitment to excellence without making excuses.
Conijn described her transition as a natural progression and expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with De Wit. She acknowledged the support and understanding from her previous coach Jillert Anema, with whom she maintains a positive relationship. Conijn also stressed the shared core values of honesty, openness, and respect that define her collaboration with De Wit.
Looking ahead, both Conijn and Ning are focused on preparing for future competitions, including the Olympic Games scheduled for 2030. Their move to Team Novus represents a strategic step in their athletic development, supported by a coaching staff committed to maximizing their potential.
