Jeroen Hertzberger Announces Retirement After Legendary Career

In a heartfelt announcement that resonates deeply within the world of Dutch hockey, Jeroen Hertzberger, the iconic forward for HC Rotterdam, has declared that he will retire at the end of the current season. The 39-year-old player, who has been synonymous with Rotterdam hockey for 22 remarkable seasons, made his decision public via a press release on April 2, 2025.

Hertzberger, a stalwart of the club since his debut in 2003, has scored an impressive 19 goals this season, placing him fifth on the top scorers list in the Tulp Hoofdklasse. His career has been nothing short of legendary, culminating in his crowning as the all-time top scorer in the Hoofdklasse in November 2023, a title he has since extended to 377 goals.

Reflecting on his decision, Hertzberger expressed, "This season feels like the right moment to stop at my peak. I want to not just participate but truly perform and make a difference—mindsets that align with this club and this team." His dedication to Rotterdam has been unwavering, contributing not only to the scoreboard but also to the team’s spirit and culture.

Throughout his illustrious career, Hertzberger has been a key player in significant victories for the club, including the historic national title in 2013, which remains the only championship in the club's history. His influence, however, extends beyond mere statistics. Hertzberger has been a role model for younger players, often citing inspirations like Mark Knowles and Phil Burrows, and he hopes to have instilled a similar competitive spirit in the current generation of players.

"My career has been shaped by inspiring players like Mark Knowles, Phil Burrows, and my brothers. I hope I've passed on the same mentality and sports culture to the current generation," he remarked, highlighting the importance of mentorship in sports.

As he prepares for his final matches, Hertzberger's legacy is not just about the goals he has scored—though with 592 goals across all competitions, including his international career, that is a significant part of it. He has played 267 international matches for the Dutch national team, scoring 127 goals and participating in 26 title tournaments, including three Olympic Games and a European Championship win in 2015.

Looking ahead, Hertzberger and his team are still in contention for playoff spots in the current season, battling fiercely with Kampong for the fourth position that grants entry to the championship playoffs. Additionally, the Euro Hockey League awaits them during the Easter weekend, where they will face Old Georgians in the quarter-finals. With 47 goals in the Euro Hockey League, he is also the all-time leading scorer in this prestigious tournament.

Despite the excitement of these upcoming matches, Hertzberger has made it clear that he does not envision playing for another club, stating, "For me, top sports are not just about performance but also about the total picture—and that includes club loyalty. Half of my life, I have worn the Rotterdam shirt, and I don’t believe I could feel the same love anywhere else." His commitment to the club is a testament to his character and the deep connections he has forged over his two-decade-long career.

As he steps away from the sport, Hertzberger leaves behind a remarkable legacy that will be hard to replicate. No player in the Hoofdklasse has scored more than he has, and his contributions to Rotterdam will be remembered long after his final whistle blows. Fans and teammates alike will undoubtedly feel the impact of his absence, but they will also celebrate the incredible journey he has had.

In the end, Jeroen Hertzberger is not just hanging up his stick; he is closing a significant chapter in Dutch hockey history. As he prepares for his final games, the hockey community eagerly anticipates how he will finish this remarkable story, with hopes that he will go out on a high note, just as he has always strived to do throughout his career.