Maarten de Jong

Maarten de Jong (born 26 March 1962) is a Dutch football coach and former professional footballer who played as a midfielder. He notably spent ten years at Heerenveen, amassing 308 appearances and scoring 23 goals, earning him the affectionate nickname Mister It Hearrenfean ("Mister Heerenveen") from fans.

Playing career In 1984, De Jong made his debut for Heerenveen's first team under the guidance of head coach Henk van Brussel. He remained with the club until 1995, leaving an indelible mark by becoming the first player to score a goal for Heerenveen in the Eredivisie, leveling the score 1–1 against Volendam. De Jong also played a pivotal role in Heerenveen's promotion to the Eredivisie and their participation in a KNVB Cup final.

In the summer of 1994, he joined Groningen, and on 5 May 1996, he announced his retirement from professional football. Embraced by Heerenveen fans, he was affectionately referred to as "Mister Heerenveen" (Mister It Hearrenfean). Throughout his tenure at the club, he was thrice honored as the Supporters' Player of the Year.