In the shadow of the Johan Cruijff ArenA stands a tribute to a man known as “De Goede Beul” – The Good Torturer. This is the statue of Bobby Haarms, a beloved figure in Amsterdam’s football history. De Goede Beul might sound like a strange nickname, but for Bobby Haarms, it was a badge of honor. He was Ajax’s dedicated rehabilitation trainer. His “torture” was the rigorous training he put injured players through to get them back on the field. De Goede Beul statue, created by Hans Jouta and unveiled in 2011, captures Haarms’ spirit. The bronze figure stands proudly, a testament to his dedication to the club and its players. The inscription on the plinth reads “DE GOEDE BEUL” on one side, and “BOBBY HAARMS. 8 MAART 1934. 6 JUNI 2009” on the other. It’s a simple yet powerful memorial. Haarms wasn’t a star player, but his contribution to Ajax was invaluable. He helped countless players recover from injuries, earning him the affectionate nickname and a permanent place in the hearts of Ajax fans. The statue is a reminder that sometimes the greatest heroes work behind the scenes. So, next time you’re at the ArenA, take a moment to appreciate De Goede Beul. Remember the man who dedicated his life to helping others achieve their full potential.
De Goede Beul Statue
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