Antwerp (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Beerschot faces a steward shortage, needing up to 80 for big games like the Antwerp derby. Bram Vaesen says clubs share volunteers, as fewer sign up post-pandemic.
As VRT News reported, Antwerp football club Beerschot is seeking additional stewards to help maintain safety and calm during home games at the Olympisch Stadion. The club often seeks new volunteers because stewards play a crucial role in every match. They mentioned that Beerschot gives every new steward training so they understand how to deal with different situations, like guiding a lost supporter or stepping in when tempers flare.
“They watch over the stands and make sure nothing goes wrong,”
Says club spokesperson Bram Vaesen.
“If something happens, they know what to do and can step in quickly.”
Why is Antwerp’s Beerschot struggling to find 80 Stewards?
Beerschot says it needs more stewards because the work is done by volunteers. The club mentioned that it cannot be at every match. That is why more people are being asked to join.
“You cannot make volunteers come each time,”
Says Bram Vaesen.
“We want a big group so there are always enough stewards.”
With more helpers, the club hopes every game will stay safe and run smoothly for all fans
“For the derby against Antwerp, stewards from other clubs had to come and help.”
Bram Vaesen, spokesperson for Beerschot
Spokesperson Bram Vaesen says the number needed changes with each match. He mentioned that it depends on the match. For the derby against Antwerp, they needed 80 stewards and had to ask other clubs for help. The club’s group of volunteers is not large enough, and that leaves Beerschot unable to handle the biggest crowds on its own.
Many football clubs in Belgium are facing a lack of stewards, not just Beerschot. Stijn Van Bever from the Pro League says it is hard for clubs to find enough volunteers, just like in other parts of club life.
Because of this, clubs are helping each other. When one club does not have enough stewards, it asks another club to send some. Bram Vaesen from Beerschot says they have asked for help several times and are happy to return the favour.
