Ids Jousma

Ids Jousma was one of Friesland’s best ever kaatsers. He started his career in 1916, and by 1920 was the first player ever to collect the “Clover Four”, having won the four most important championships. His greatest achievements, however, came between 1925-30, when he formed an almost unbeatable trio with Klaas Kuiken and Teade Zijlstra. Altogether Jousma won the PC tournament four times, and the Dutch Championship five times. His reputation, however, was overshadowed by allegations of bribery.

At the age of 30, Jousma, a butcher by trade, contracted bladder worm, an occupational disease. It was a long illness, which required surgery and, whilst he recovered, he never competed at the highest level again. However, he did continue to play until winning his 100th medal. Jousma moved to Jelsum, where he managed the “De Groote Bontekoe” café, prior his early death at the age of 35.