C'est la Chine - Netherlands | Inspiration from Kung Fu movies: Dutch coach opens martial arts school in Netherlands
In the Hague, the third largest city in the Netherlands, just a short drive south in the town of Rijswijk, a group of students dressed in black martial arts uniforms are practicing Tai Chi, moving gracefully between stillness and motion. The leading instructor, Niek op't Ende, exudes a strong Eastern charm in his gestures.
Niek is currently a member of the International Wushu Federation (IWUF) judging committee and the head coach at the Yunde Wushu school in the Netherlands, where he primarily teaches various martial arts, including traditional Kung Fu, modern martial arts, and Tai Chi. After years of training, martial arts have become an inseparable part of Niek's life.
Fascinated by Kung Fu Movies, Niek Embarks on His Martial Arts Journey
Growing up in the Netherlands, Niek developed an interest in Kung Fu films featuring Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee from a young age, recounting his favorites like "Police Story" and "Project A" with great enthusiasm. He began learning judo at the age of four and, at fourteen, trained under Fei Yuliang, a well-known Chinese martial artist and former head coach of the Dutch national martial arts team, where he studied Chinese martial arts.
Niek later traveled to China multiple times for training, mastering fluent Mandarin and studying under An Jianqiu, the fifth-generation heir of An Family kungfu and a national champion in both Bajiquan and Xingyiquan. He learned Baguazhang, Bajiquan, and Sanda. His extensive training laid the foundation for establishing his own martial arts school.
Returning to the Netherlands to Open a Martial Arts School
When asked why he returned to the Netherlands to open a martial arts school, Niek explained that he was influenced by his mentor, Fei, who told him a few years ago that they should do something for the next generation of martial artists. Starting with only four students, the school now has around forty, and Niek is genuinely pleased to see his years of dedication paying off.
In Niek's view, the uniqueness of martial arts lies in its cultural depth; it is not merely a means of combat. Many movements are rooted in significant cultural traditions, such as some techniques originating from Chinese opera. His student Ludmila resonates with this sentiment, noting, "Some complex movements are between dance and fight."
Ludmila has been studying at Yunde Wushu for five years, also inspired by Kung Fu movies. As she progressed, she discovered that her stress levels in daily life decreased. Initially attending classes once a week, her enjoyment grew, and she now attends three times weekly.
Hongkongers in the Netherlands Experience Cultural Fusion through Martial Arts
The martial arts school is located near The Hague, the only coastal city in the Netherlands, known for its high degree of internationalization. In Niek's classes, there are not only local Chinese students but also participants from various European countries, including Hongkongers. Digi, a Hongkonger on a working holiday in the Netherlands, previously coached at a martial arts cultural center in Hong Kong. He expressed his desire to maintain his interest in martial arts and came to Yunde Wushu to continue training and serve as an assistant instructor. Practicing martial arts in a foreign environment has given him a unique perspective, saying, "I can feel their enthusiasm and respect for Wushu."
Students at the school hold Niek in high regard. Peter, who has been training there since its establishment, remarked, "He takes care of what you think about and he is really an amazing person," Ludmila praised Niek's dedication to martial arts, especially during the pandemic, when he persevered despite a lack of students.
Promoting Martial Arts Culture and Judging International Competitions in Hong Kong
In 2008, Niek obtained his first professional martial arts judging qualification and subsequently officiated at numerous international martial arts competitions around the world. He was also selected as a member of the IWUF's international judging committee. Starting in 2024, Niek has served as a judging member of the IWUF. Additionally, he is the chair of the European Wushu Federation's judging committee, working to promote martial arts in Europe. He hopes to increase awareness and understanding of Chinese culture among more Dutch people, especially the younger generation, and encourage them to practice martial arts, allowing the sport to flourish in Europe.
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