Mission Viejo's aspiration to become an Olympic training hub began eight years ago. Located about 80 kilometres southeast of downtown Los Angeles, the city has a historic link to the Olympics, with its city seal featuring an Olympic torch, a nod to the cycling events held there during the 1984 Los Angeles Games. Despite initial setbacks from the LA28 organising committee, which preferred to centralise events in Los Angeles, the city pursued the opportunity independently.

To overcome this challenge, Mission Viejo engaged Greg Harney, an expert in Olympic hospitality, and launched a global outreach campaign. This determined effort eventually led to the partnership with TeamNL.

Strategic Partnership

The agreement between Mission Viejo and TeamNL was formalised in a ceremony in Paris. Andre Cats, Technical and Games Director for TeamNL, praised the city's sports facilities and hospitality. "We were greatly impressed by Mission Viejo’s sports infrastructure, including its track-and-field and aquatic venues. Beyond the facilities, we were seeking warmth, hospitality, and a genuine passion for sport. We found all of this in Mission Viejo," Cats remarked.

TeamNL, which has a distinguished Olympic history with nearly 500 medals, will benefit from Mission Viejo’s top-notch training facilities. The city's excellent environment for athletics and swimming played a crucial role in the decision.

Community Impact and Legacy

The presence of TeamNL is expected to inspire local youth and create a lasting Olympic legacy. Mayor Trish Kelley emphasised the importance of this opportunity: "Hosting TeamNL is a tremendous opportunity for our community. We believe our facilities will provide an excellent training environment for the Dutch athletes."

Training sessions for TeamNL are anticipated to start as early as 2026, with additional camps planned for 2028. The Dutch team will train in various sports, including athletics and swimming, and potentially team sports like handball and volleyball.

Looking Ahead

As Mission Viejo prepares for its role as TeamNL’s training hub, city officials are optimistic about future opportunities. This partnership is seen as a gateway to further Olympic engagements and a chance to host additional teams or athletes in the future.

Anthony Brenneman, Executive Director of the Orange County Sports Commission, highlighted the region’s unique character. "Orange County offers a distinct identity separate from Los Angeles and San Diego. Our communities, weather, and facilities provide a special environment that will benefit the athletes and enhance their training experience."

In conclusion, the partnership between Mission Viejo and TeamNL represents a significant achievement for the city and underscores the broader impact of major sporting events. As the city welcomes the Dutch team, it sets a precedent for how smaller communities can leverage nearby major events to create meaningful opportunities and connections within the Olympic movement.