Beach volleyball players Jon Stiekema (21) and Daan Spijkers (23) haven been a team since October 2009. They live in Duindorp, close to the Beach stadium and training hall Lindobeach.

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Beach volleyball players Jon Stiekema (21) and Daan Spijkers (23) have been a team since October 2009. They live in Duindorp, close to the Beach stadium and training hall  Lindobeach.

Please introduce each other
Jon: Daan has a strong competition mentality. He is a perfectionist and loves to talk.
Daan: Jon has left his wild period behind him. He is the calm type and a perfectionist as well..

How do you prepare?
J: Preparation begins in November, when we start training six days a week in the sand.
D: We try to compete in as much international matches as possible.

What is your goal?
D: Being part of the best players in the world. In the Netherlands we are part of the top 3.
J: Everything is focused on participation in the 2012 Olympics. That’s the highest attainable goal for an athlete.

Who is your favorite opponent?
J: That used to be Daan with his buddy Niels van der Sande. Currently it’s: Rodgers-Daulhausser.
D: A match against this American duo would be a nice showdown.

Why is Scheveningen the ultimate location for beach volley?
J: The Beach stadium attracts a lot of top players and events.
D: Here, people play beach volleyball as it is intended to be: on the beach with the wind, the sea and a great atmosphere.

Are you happy in sports city The Hague?
J: Definitely. I am part of ‘Haags Goud’ a group of athletes who receive additional support.
D: The Hague makes great use of the unique possibilities, such as the beach and the sea.

What are your favorite hangouts?
J+D: Brunotti at the beach and pizzeria La Lanterna in ‘de Keizerstraat’.

Do you have any inside tips for visitors?
D: Pick up a delicious bite of fish in the harbor. I often go to Roeleveld. And take a nice stroll across the quieter ‘Zuiderstrand’.
J: Enjoy the variety of beach pavilions. You won’t find this much diversity anywhere else.