In the Netherlands, Tom Koops is considered the specialist in the field of glacial boulders sponges. He regularly publishes on sponges and other fossils. His publications and lectures are characterized by substantive depth, a critical eye, and an accessible style. Koops is also active on paleontological internet forums. Under his alias 'Sponge Bob,' he answers questions about fossils.

The award ceremony took place on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Museum Schokland, led by Mayor Roger de Groot of the municipality of Noordoostpolder. The laudation was delivered by Percy van Keulen.

P. van der Lijn

The P. van der Lijn Award is presented annually if possible. The name refers to P. van der Lijn, the founder of Dutch amateur geology. Museum Schokland, a museum for history, geology, and archaeology, holds an extensive collection from Van der Lijn.