Minister Plenipotentiary Gracita Arrindell signing the condolence book.
THE HAGUE--Minister Plenipotentiary Gracita Arrindell represented the people and the Government of St Maarten at the homecoming service of St Maarten-born Dutch baseball icon Hamilton “Hammy” Richardson on Friday, January 16, 2026.
Richardson, who passed away at the age of 85, was an iconic figure in Dutch baseball history. He arrived in the Netherlands in the early 1960s and became a transformative force for Sparta Rotterdam and for baseball across the country. Known for his speed and defensive skill in the outfield, Richardson played for Sparta from 1963 to 1974, helping define the club’s “golden era.”
“There are always a time and place to honour and celebrate our heroes. I fondly recall the last time I met ‘Hammy’ at his home near the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex in Sint Maarten, decades ago. His infectious smile, twinkling eyes, and enduring legacy as an exceptional player, coach, and sports ambassador, will continue to inspire those he leaves behind and generations to come.
“Through his life’s work, he laid a foundation for youth empowerment, discipline, and unity, reminding us that sports remain a powerful tool in building a stronger nation,” Arrindell said on Sunday.
Richardson was a cornerstone of Sparta teams that dominated the Dutch Hoofdklasse, contributing to nine national championships. He was also a key member of the Netherlands National Team, helping secure multiple European titles and paving the way for other Caribbean players to integrate into Dutch baseball.
After his playing career, Richardson remained a respected ambassador for Sparta Rotterdam. He was knighted in the Order of Oranje-Nassau.
