AMSTERDAM/OSDORP - Sander Jonen's Partycentrum Osdorp, home to many billiard and darts teams, has had to close its doors this morning, on municipal orders. A disagreement with the city of Amsterdam is at the root of the problem. Sander Jonen: ,,The lease had expired some time ago. We wanted to expand, and organize more parties, but the city would not let us. They have now obtained a court order to evict me''
Partycentrum Osdorp is best known in the billiard wolrd for its top team in the league, with Dick Jaspers, Eddy Merckx, Frans van Kuyk, Dick van Uum and Sander Jonen. Owner is a two time world champion in artistic billiards.
A four year stay in the Osdorp premises ended this morning for Jonen. ,,I kept assuming that we would be able to work it out with the city. We wanted to expand our lease and had found an investor. The plan was, to organize more parties. The city would not let us.''
Jonen, who was diagnosed with a malignant tumor in his jaw just weeks ago, says: "We have lost money for four years, hoping to build something worthwhile. This is so sad. Chantal and I have given it 100 % for four years, and now this.''
Partycentrum Osdorp was best known as a billiards room, with 12 small tables, 6 full size, 2 pool tables and 23 dart lanes. Many teams played their league matches in Osdorp.
Sander Jonen went looking for an alternative as soon as the place was closed. ,,We have a few options, among those Het Koetshuis in Haarlem, but nothing is certain as yet. We intend to keep the teams in competition, and I plan to make a new start, possibly in another building of our own.''
The top team with Jaspers and Merckx, currently in 2nd place in the league and certain of a play-off spot, wants to finish the year in this line-up. Sander Jonen: ,,After this season, Jaspers will certainly leave, and Merckx is also considering other offers.''