Ten Hove describes the team’s commitment to a customized approach for each athlete, emphasizing personal involvement, innovation, and a straightforward character as core values.
Schaatsen.nl, a Dutch sports news outlet, recently published an interview with Ten Hove about the principles guiding their team.
Ten Hove explains that they believe athletes should not be forced into a fixed mold. Instead, they prioritize tailored programs, noting that while Bart Swings engages extensively in inline skating, Joy Beune participates in it far less. This nuanced approach reflects their philosophy of respecting individual needs rather than imposing a rigid perspective on athletes.
He acknowledges the challenge of articulating this philosophy to the press and sponsors, asking how to effectively communicate an identity that centers on following the athlete’s needs rather than dictating methods. Alongside tailored training plans, Ten Hove highlights the importance of personal interaction, team innovation, and the practical, down-to-earth character typical of Groningen as the major values within the team.
These values are assessed early on, during initial conversations with new riders. Prospective team members should enjoy contributing ideas and embracing customization; those preferring a ready-made program may not fit well. Additionally, being open to personal contact with sponsors, who visit during training camps and competitions, is crucial. The team values athletes with a no-nonsense attitude, but as the skating world is small, they avoid being overly critical. Above all, athletes need to align with the team’s emphasis on personalization and collaborative engagement.
These values also extend to the relationship with sponsors, with an emphasis on maintaining personal interactions between the team and its supporters.
