A visit to his childhood school became a global celebration of kindness and gratitude.
Kapellen, Belgium — June 10, 2025
What began as a quiet trip down memory lane turned into an unforgettable act of generosity when cycling star Mathieu van der Poel visited his former primary school and reunited with someone who had quietly shaped his early years: Mr. Luc Verbeeck, the janitor who kept the school safe, clean, and full of kindness.
Van der Poel, visiting without press, was walking through the familiar corridors of Sint-Lambertusschool, when he spotted Mr. Verbeeck—now 79—tidying the playground, just as he had decades ago.
“Mr. Verbeeck?” Mathieu called out, his voice filled with emotion.
“Mathieu? Is that really you?” the janitor replied, breaking into a smile.
The Story Behind the Moment
Van der Poel quickly learned that Mr. Verbeeck wasn’t still working because he wanted to. Mounting medical bills for his wife and a small pension had left him with no choice but to keep working, even at his age.
“He wasn’t just the janitor,” Van der Poel said later. “He was the heart of the school. He looked out for us. It’s time someone looked out for him.”
A Surprise to Remember
One week later, during a school assembly titled “Celebrating Everyday Heroes”, Mr. Verbeeck was called to the stage. As the children clapped politely, the doors opened—and in walked Van der Poel, pushing a brand-new bike for Mr. Verbeeck’s grandson.
The gym erupted in cheers.
Van der Poel took the mic:
“We celebrate champions, but the true heroes are people like Mr. Verbeeck, who show up every day and give their best.”
He handed Mr. Verbeeck a €250,000 cheque—enough to clear his debts, provide care for his wife, and retire in comfort. Van der Poel also announced the creation of the Verbeeck Scholarship, offering free bikes and school supplies to underprivileged students.
Mr. Verbeeck was overcome with emotion.
“I was just doing my job. I never imagined this,” he said, tears streaming down his face.
#ThankYouLuc Goes Viral
Within hours, video of the surprise flooded social media. The hashtag #ThankYouLuc became the top trending topic in Belgium and spread globally, inspiring others to honor unsung heroes in their own communities.
Two days later, Mr. Verbeeck retired, now spending his days with family—and cheering Van der Poel on at every race.