Baseball hero comes to Eindhoven: Rick van den Hurk brings game, fun, and passion to the ASML Summer Games.

Rick van den Hurk brings game, fun and passion to the ASML Summer Games in Eindhoven

Former professional baseball player Rick van den Hurk will be in Eindhoven on Monday, August 4, to lead a clinic for children from the Brainport Region during the ASML Summer Games. “As a kid, my holidays were all about sports and play,” says Van den Hurk. “Baseball, football, and always being outside. That’s why the ASML Summer Games really resonate with how I grew up.”

Van den Hurk played baseball at the highest level for many years in both the United States and Japan before retiring in 2021. Now, he’s coming to Eindhoven to inspire and coach the next generation. “I want to show the kids that fun and physical activity go hand in hand,” he explains. “Sport is something you do together — you learn together, encourage each other, and have fun together. Whether you win or lose, the most important thing is respect. That’s how we build not only stronger athletes but also stronger people.”

When Van den Hurk was invited to support the sports initiative by ASML and BrabantSport, he didn’t hesitate. “It aligns perfectly with the values my parents instilled in me. My own holidays were always filled with sports and play,” he recalls. Baseball, football, and games like tag or hide-and-seek with friends. “Being able to pass that on to the next generation now is something I find incredibly special.”

Baseball Clinic

On Monday, August 4, children will get the chance to experience baseball — and meet Rick van den Hurk — during an active clinic at Sportpark De Heihoef. “They’ll be introduced to all aspects of the game: throwing at targets, catching both grounders and fly balls, and running the bases. Of course, we’ll wrap up the day with a game!”

“And the dedication and discipline they develop through sports will become a valuable foundation they can use throughout their lives.”
— Rick van den Hurk

The former pro can’t wait to see the kids in action. “I’m looking forward to the look on their faces when they’ve had a moment of success. That shift from intense focus to big smiles — that’s what it’s all about.” Underneath it all, he hopes the children will come away with the idea that sports and exercise are key to a healthy lifestyle. “And the dedication and discipline they develop while playing — those are life skills they can take with them far beyond the field.”

About the ASML Summer Games

For six weeks during the summer holidays, the ASML Summer Games offer children the chance to try out more than 20 different sports — completely free of charge. From athletics, BMX, freerunning and hockey to dance, swimming, padel, and many more. The goal is to get kids moving in a fun and accessible way during the summer break. It’s all about helping them discover what they enjoy, what suits them, and where their talents lie. Want to join one of the activities? There are still plenty of exciting clinics on the schedule through August 13. Check out our programme page for the full line-up!

Spectacular Sports Festival to Wrap Up the ASML Summer Games

The ASML Summer Games will conclude with a festive Sports Festival on Wednesday, August 13, at the Jan Louwers Stadium — home of FC Eindhoven. Team BrabantSport athletes Ephrahim Jerry (handball), Bob de Voogd (hockey), Indy Kramer (BMX), and Kimberly Alkemade (para-athletics) will be there to join in the action. YouTuber DutchTuber (Job van Grafhorst) will provide the entertainment. And you can be part of it too! Sign up now at https://asmlzomerspelen.nl/inschrijven