The Erik Meijs Foundation, established in May 2023 in memory of Erik Meijs who tragically passed away in a car accident in November 2017, is approaching its third anniversary. The foundation’s core mission – to honor Erik’s legacy by fostering independent, proactive badminton talent, particularly with a focus on opportunities in Asia – has already impacted the careers of six young players.
Founded on the principles of forging one’s own path and looking beyond conventional structures, the Erik Meijs Foundation provides crucial financial support to promising badminton athletes. This support isn’t simply about funding training; it’s about empowering the next generation to pursue their dreams with autonomy and ambition.
Supporting Badminton Talent: From the Netherlands to Vietnam
In nearly three years of operation, the foundation has awarded grants to a diverse group of athletes. The first recipient was Esmeralda van Drunen, who received funding for a training stage at The Vietnam-Danish Badminton Institute, led by Ron and Huynh Daniëls. This initial investment highlighted the foundation’s commitment to providing international opportunities for Dutch talent. Liam Birahy followed, also benefiting from a training stage in Vietnam. Shortly after, the foundation extended its reach to support Nguyen Ha Dong Vy, a young Vietnamese player.
Stef and Karin Meijs, founders of the foundation, personally visited the Vietnam-Danish Badminton Institute in July 2024, witnessing firsthand the impact of Ron and Huynh Daniëls’ operate. “We have seen with our own eyes what they have built in the Mekong Delta,” they shared. The visit reinforced their belief in the institute’s dedication to developing badminton talent, particularly among children with limited resources. Van Drunen received further support from the foundation in January of this year, demonstrating a continued commitment to her development.
New Checks for Mette Kool and Jason de Graaf at BC Drop Shot
Most recently, on March 8, 2026, following a playoff match between BC Drop Shot and Duinwijck, the Erik Meijs Foundation provided initial support to two rising stars: Mette Kool and Jason de Graaf. This duo, a successful mixed doubles pairing, are also members of the National Youth Selection Under 15 team. The connection to Erik Meijs is particularly poignant, as he previously played for both Drop Shot and Duinwijck, adding a personal layer to the foundation’s support.
The foundation recognizes the significant financial burden faced by young athletes and their families. Providing financial assistance allows these players to focus on their training and development without the added stress of economic hardship. “We understand how much effort it takes for a young player to stay afloat, stay focused and for the family around them to bear the brunt of the financial burden,” the Meijs family stated.
The Foundation’s Mission: Financial Support for Young Players
The Erik Meijs Foundation actively encourages aspiring athletes with future plans to reach out via email or private message to explore potential support opportunities. Information can be found on the foundation’s website: erikmeijsfoundation.nl.
Sustaining this support requires ongoing financial backing, and the foundation relies on the generosity of sponsors. Jaap van der Kolk is a key, consistent sponsor, alongside other contributors, enabling the foundation to regularly provide assistance to promising athletes. Sponsorship inquiries can also be directed through the foundation’s website or via private message.
With thanks to René Lagerwaard for the photos of the cheque presentation to Mette and Jason.
Stef and Karin Meijs
The Erik Meijs Foundation’s commitment to nurturing badminton talent, both in the Netherlands and abroad, serves as a powerful testament to Erik Meijs’s enduring legacy. As the foundation approaches its third anniversary, it continues to provide a vital lifeline for young athletes striving to reach their full potential.
