Meet the Trainers! With this time…

Ywen Ver Loren van Themaat

1. When did you start working at USC?

In the beginning of 2018 I did my first climbing course as an instructor.

2. At what location should we start searching if you’re lost and we need you?

At Universum of course!😄 There’s all the USC climbing located. Besides that, I think it’s a great place to be. There’s a good atmosphere and always somebody I know to catch up with.

3. Is there something not a lot of USC people know about you?

Although my name couldn’t be any more Dutch than it already is, I do have some international roots actually. My mother is American and a big part of my dad’s family is from South Africa.

Ywen’s natural habitat

4. What is your most memorable sports highlight?

My most memorable highlight is in the mountains. Last summer, I climbed a ridge that I’ve admired from an early age: De Aiguilles Rouges d’Arolla in Switzerland. For me this feels like a right of passage – an important milestone in my development as a mountain climber.

5. Do you have a favorite post workout snack?

There’s nothing that makes me happier than a well filled plate of curry.

6. What is your best characteristic as a trainer?

Sincerity. When I encourage someone it comes from the bottom of my heart, and you know it when you hear me. I always strive to help people break through their own boundaries, wherever they may be.

7. And last but not least… What accomplishment are you most proud of?

Although this isn’t really an accomplishment from myself, I am most proud when someone really gets into climbing after he or she started out with me. When I see people years later having an active role in the climbing community for example.