Cruyff Court Dennis Bergkamp

Arsenal legend Dennis Bergkamp accompanied by Dutch master, Johan Cruyff will officially open a Cruyff Court in Elthorne Park, Islington on Thursday 23rd October. 

The facilities, named ‘Cruyff Court Dennis Bergkamp’ are a legacy left by Dennis Bergkamp whose 11-year glittering Arsenal career culminated in a testimonial with the Club which was the first ever game at Emirates Stadium in July 2006. Arsenal’s Dutch striker, Robin van Persie will also be in attendance to complete the line up.

Dennis Bergkamp, through his testimonial game donated £75,000 through the Cruyff Foundation, as a thank you to the local community for supporting his career at Arsenal. The remainder of the cost was funded by Islington Council.  Special contributions were made by TenCate Grass Group who donated the artificial turf, backing and infill as well as the Dutch Embassy who covered travel expenses for the ‘Cruyff Court All Star’ team who are participating in the official opening.

Alan Sefton, Head of Arsenal in the Community: “It’s wonderful to welcome Dennis back to north London accompanied by such a legendary figure in football, Johan Cruyff.  These players are an inspiration to our coaches and to the youngsters who use the facilities here. 

Thanks to the Arsenal Kickz project, a programme that brings together the football industry with police and other partners to help young people realise their potential, the pitch is available for structured use and is free for young people of the local area. Arsenal in the Community runs its regular Kickz sessions four times a week at Elthorne Park which was originally the catalyst for the facility's regeneration. 

The football tournament for local youngsters, including Arsenal u 12 and the Cruyff Court All Stars starts at 13.00 hours. Official opening by Dennis Bergkamp and Johan Cruyff will be at 14.00 hrs. Price giving ceremony by Dennis Bergkamp and Johan Cruyff at 15.30 hours.

The realisation of the Cruyff Court Dennis Bergkamp because of the contributions of Ten Cate and the Dutch Ambassy.