ALPHEN AAN DEN RIJN – A youth football match at ARC football club turned chaotic on Saturday, May 3, 2025, when the referee was allegedly assaulted by the coach of the visiting team, Lugdunum. The match, involving two under-fifteen teams, was taking place in Alphen aan den Rijn when the incident occurred.
Witnesses reported that during the game, the referee was struck hard in the throat by the coach, resulting in serious injury. The blow was so severe that the referee had to be transported to the hospital by ambulance. According to ARC chairman Robert Roeleven, it was a "considerable blow" to the throat, and the referee may require surgery on his larynx.
The incident caused significant unrest at the sports park, prompting a police response. Following the assault, the perpetrator fled the scene. However, on the morning of Sunday, May 4, police apprehended the coach of Lugdunum, who is now a suspect in the assault case.
Roeleven expressed his disbelief and sadness over the event, stating, "It's unimaginable and very sad that boys of 14 years old had to witness this, both from the opposing team and from ARC. My attention also goes to the players and spectators who had to see this." He further lamented the emotional involvement that led to such violence over a youth football match, indicating a troubling trend in society where aggression spills over into children's sports.
Koos Keijzer, the chairman of Lugdunum, was not present at the match but expressed his regret over the incident. He stated, "This should not happen on a football field or in society." Keijzer confirmed that the club would conduct a thorough investigation into the events surrounding the assault and take necessary measures.
The assault on the referee has raised concerns about the safety of officials in youth sports, with many calling for stricter regulations and consequences for violent behavior. The incident is particularly alarming given the young age of the players involved and the potential impact such violence can have on their perception of sportsmanship and competition.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on the health of the injured referee, who is still hospitalized. Witnesses reported that he is receiving medical care and that the situation is being monitored closely. The community is rallying around the referee, hoping for a swift recovery and a return to officiating.
In light of this unfortunate event, local sports organizations are being urged to promote respect and fair play, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe environment for all participants in youth sports. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for accountability and the importance of setting a positive example for young athletes.
The aftermath of this incident will likely lead to discussions among sports clubs, parents, and officials about how to prevent such occurrences in the future and how to ensure that youth sports remain a positive experience for all involved.
