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Ronald Waterreus has made the long trip from the United States of America today with the sole purpose of attending the annual golf tournament, organized by his foundation Pantereus for the fifth time in a row, with a view to helping raise money for the World Wildlife Fund. The PSV players Phillip Cocu, Oscar Moens and John de Jong all showed their skills and passion for golf, just as former PSV defender André Ooijer.
Waterreus, the 36-year-old former PSV goalkeeper, who makes appearances for the New York Red Bulls in the American Major League of Soccer these days, has dedicated himself for many years to the cause of species of cats that are threatened with extinction, as founder and ambassador of the Pantereus foundation. The Iberian lynx is considered by IUCN to be critically endangered and is the world's most endangered cat species.
The Pantereus foundation organizes an annual golf tournament, attempting to raise money in order to make a contribution to the survival of this threatened species. All proceeds are donated to the WWF lynx project in Sierra Morena in South Spain. Of all the Big Cats, the Iberian lynx is closest to extinction, with recent estimates revealing that only 200 Iberian Lynx survive today. The golf tournament has attracted 88 competitors and they as well as 130 dinner guests from the world of sport and football, trade and industry and even the Royal Dutch family are expected to raise about 35, 000 euro.
“We are delighted with our goal tournament’s increasing appeal”, explained Pantereus foundation chairman Hans Schellekens. “The tournament is noted for its terrific organisation and superb and relaxed atmosphere. That’s why all participants return year after year. Waterreus, who will fly back to the The Big Apple tomorrow morning, was most anxious to be here today as founder of the organisation.”
Waterreus has sustained an ankle injury, but he has a great season with the New York Red Bulls, who are on top of their league. “Although some of our key players are ruled out, we do just fine. I like the challenge. It exceeds all expectations.”
PSV is represented by a great many (former) players. First team regulars Phillip Cocu, John de Jong and Oscar Moens are all enjoying the events of the day, and so are former PSV players André Ooijer, Mitchell van der Gaag, Arnold Bruggink, Edward Linskens and Piet Schrijvers.
