KNVB English site

Jan–Thank you very much for your follow up to my inquiry regarding the KNVB website and the English language version of it. I must say that their response, although polite and professional, is what they have been offering as an explanation for the past two years at least. Several years ago they did have a somewhat informative English language site, not with all of the stories offered in Dutch but enough to make it interesting. Then they abandoned the English site with the exception of continuing to offer a “Shop” format for Netherlands football products. The site disappeared for many months, then reappeared with an offer to subscribe to a internet match broadcast opportunity in order to view the Euro ‘08 qualifying matches. This was terrific, but then I received notice that due to an interest in this offering, it would be discontinued and my balance of fee payment would be refunded–which they did. So, as to that program, I was able to view several matches,but no longer.

I am surprised that, for a country that has made English a second language–signs, menus, airport directions, etc. all in English as well as Dutch–the KNVB does not address the substantial interest in Dutch football by English speaking people. As I emailed earlier on another matter, I am an American of Dutch ancestry, whose family’s Dutch language usage stopped several generations ago. Yet, I remain intensely interested in the country, its culture and its football. I believe there are many of “me” here in the USA, also England, Australia, etc., so why not address this potentially large market with an English language site?

I am amazed at how informed you are regarding Netherlands football. Although you live in Australia, with a name such as Jan, are you a native of Holland or a Dutch speaker? I really like your blog for the wealth of information provided. Thank you!

P.S. Is the Netherlands-Bulgaria match available over the internet for viewing here in the US? If anyone knows or can find out, you are that person.

Posted from  United States

@bob…the english on the knvb site has been a work in progress for a while… i remember leading up to the euro 04 they were working on the english however that was delayed until the world cup but again it wasn’t ready… now i dont know whats up, thats why i come to this blog… if you want to watch the netherlands match online you can try UEFA.COM they have live and on demand matches for various fees… someone on this site mentioned FOOTBALL4LESS.com however i tried getting that running but i was unable…

Posted from  Canada

Thanks, Pim, for your suggestions. I hope that the KNVB can get its act together with respect to its English language site. The site’s apparent lack of competence is inconsistent with its football successes. Maybe it needs a new coach also!

Posted from  United States

WHY DO DUTCH INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL PLAYERS RECEIVE A PORCELAIN RABBIT WHEN THEY PLAY FOR THE NATIONAL TEAM?