Henk is New Zealand’s longest-serving Boccia player. Being the first New Zealand representative to compete in Boccia (alongside Paralympian #108 Tom Simeon) at the Paralympic Games in Atlanta 1996, Henk is one of the most experienced Boccia players in New Zealand. Henk has cerebral palsy and was introduced to the game through CCS.
After experiencing Boccia at the top level, he fell in love with the sport and has competed in numerous world events and 3 Paralympic Games: Atlanta 1996, Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008.
The level of commitment from Henk is evident, and he is well respected by his peers which has ultimately led him to becoming a mainstay in the New Zealand Boccia team. Henk has achieved the most top 10 placings in New Zealand Boccia history, with his top results being 5th individually at the World Cup 2003 in Christchurch, and 4th in pairs (with Paralympian #146 Greig Jackson) at the Athens 2004 Paralympic Games. Showing age is no barrier, this tough southern man has seen the sport evolve considerably – especially in the equipment for his ramp grade – and he is well known for his relaxed demeanour both on and off the court, as well as the number of assistants he has had during this remarkable and lengthy career to date. Henk is still competing in Boccia.
Henk received his ‘numbered’ Paralympic pin as part of The Celebration Project in Dunedin in February 2021. He was named a Life Member of Boccia New Zealand in 2023.
