The Spartacus Journey
Since our founding in 2012, T.S.K.V. Spartacus has grown from a small group of passionate lifters to one of the leading student strength sports associations in the Netherlands.
2011: The Concept
Two friends at Tilburg University came up with the idea of combining strength sports with social activities. After conducting "market research" and finding significant interest, they began planning what would become Spartacus.
2012: Official Foundation
TSSV Spartacus was officially established on April 11th with the first board consisting of Sjoerd van der Zee (chairman), Jeroen de Beer (secretary), and Tijn Schraa (treasurer).
2013-2014: Organization Growth
A new logo was introduced that is still used today. Committees were established to distribute workload and increase member involvement, creating the foundation for a more active and sustainable association.
2014: Competitive Development
Spartacus joined the KNKF (Koninklijke Nederlandse Krachtsport en Fitness Federatie) to promote competitive sports. The association began hosting its own powerlifting competitions, including the DRC Open Powerlifting cup and Dutch national championships.
2015: Expanding Horizons
Started selling Spartacus gym wear through a collaboration with Wilkin Sports. Changed name from TSSV to TSKV Spartacus to emphasize strength sports. Organized the first members weekend to Antwerp, establishing what would become a yearly tradition.
2017: Professional Coaching
Powerlifting champion Pjotr van den Hoek joined as the head powerlifting coach under employment of Tilburg University, elevating the training quality for competitive lifters.
2018: Brand Development
Switched merchandise provider to Tigerprint Merchandise to improve the quality and availability of Spartacus branded gym wear.
2019: Facility Improvements
Advised the Sports Center management on purchasing new training equipment. The construction committee also became responsible for building the deadlift platforms in the gym.
2020: Internationalization
All formal events were switched to English to accommodate the growing number of international students at Tilburg University, making the association more inclusive and diverse.
Today: Looking Forward
Today, T.S.K.V. Spartacus continues to grow and evolve, providing the latest information, practical know-how, and most importantly, a tight-knit community of gym enthusiasts for all in need of gains!
Words from Our Founders
"It makes me incredibly proud to see that Spartacus, even after so many years, still has a positive impact on its members. In the early years, the association was still somewhat separate. But through the determination and passion of our members and boards, Spartacus has grown over the years into an indispensable part of student life in Tilburg. The association has given me very dear memories, friendships, and experiences that I still cherish all these years later!"
- Sjoerd van der Zee, Founding Member, T.S.K.V. Spartacus
"In October 2011 the first ideas for Spartacus were put on paper. While the students training at the Tilburg University Sport Center always felt among friends in the gym, we lacked an association to call home. Sjoerd van der Zee and Tijn Schraa were determined to change that, and after the first promotions Spartacus ended the year already with 45 members! In the beginning of 2012 Jeroen de Beer joined as 3rd member of the first board and T.S.S.V. Spartacus was ready for the official foundation in March. The first year was a year of many firsts; clinics, sponsors, drinks, TOP-week participation and finally the hand-over of a fully operational association to the 2nd board. With subsequent board members all making their mark on the legacy of T.S.K.V. Spartacus, we`ve all shared one vision: to bring students with a passion for strength sports together. And it is the commitment to that vision that has grown T.S.K.V. Spartacus to the largest student strength sports association of the Benelux!"
- Tijn Schraa, Founding Member, T.S.K.V. Spartacus
Be Part of Our Future
Join T.S.K.V. Spartacus today and become part of our continuing history. Your journey with us starts now!
Become a Member