Torhout Earns Sports Company Recognition for Third Consecutive Year
Torhout has once again been recognized for its dedication to employee health, receiving the Sport Company 2026-27 label from Sport Vlaanderen for the third year in a row. The award celebrates organizations that prioritize sports and exercise as part of a comprehensive wellness strategy.
The ‘Sport@work’ Initiative
At the heart of Torhout’s success is the Sport@work
program, organized by the city’s sports department. This initiative offers a diverse range of activities designed to encourage staff participation in physical activity.
- Free Swimming: Employees enjoy complimentary access to the swimming pool every Thursday during their lunch break.
- Variety of Sports: Regular offerings include pickleball, padel and badminton.
- Team Building: Compact tournaments foster a fun and engaging atmosphere, promoting camaraderie among colleagues.
Beyond the Workplace: Community Involvement
Torhout’s commitment extends beyond internal programs. The local government actively supports existing events and provides opportunities for employees to participate in community-wide activities. Staff members can participate in De Nacht van Vlaanderen
for free and benefit from complimentary swimming pool subscriptions.
Promoting Active Lifestyles
The city is also focused on integrating movement into the daily routines of its employees. This includes providing dynamic furniture, offering tips for staying active during desk jobs, and installing a traveling ping-pong table and darts boards in various departments. Torhout actively promotes cycling as a sustainable and healthy mode of transportation through shared bicycle programs, financial incentives, and lease options.
“Sports at work and with colleagues is a real win-win. Employees feel healthier and happier. Getting some exercise during the break gives new energy to get back to work fresh, and it is a great way to get to realize colleagues better in a relaxed atmosphere. Investing in sports facilities always pays off. We are proud that we are once again receiving recognition from Sport Vlaanderen this year for the efforts of many employees.”
Pieter Billiet, Sports Alderman
‘Get off that hole!’ Campaign
In April 2026, Torhout will participate in the Get off that hole!
campaign of the VRT, challenging both staff and residents to increase their physical activity. The sports department will host a free program for all ages on April 2nd, including swimming, pickleball, and a boot camp during the lunch break for local government and other Torhout company employees.
FAQ
- What is the ‘Sport@work’ program? It’s a city-sponsored initiative offering various sports and wellness activities for Torhout employees.
- Is participation in ‘Sport@work’ mandatory? No, participation is voluntary.
- What is ‘De Nacht van Vlaanderen’? It’s a community event that Torhout employees can participate in for free.
Torhout’s continued success in earning the Sport Company label demonstrates a strong commitment to the health and happiness of its workforce, setting a positive example for other organizations in the region.