A new Cruyff Court has officially opened in Edinburgh!
Cruyff Court Figgate Park is the first court in Scotland’s capital city. It is located in the Portobello area, to the east of the city centre.
Julen Cruyff, grandson of Johan Cruyff and son of Jordi Cruyff, was also present at the opening. His presence highlighted the continued impact of the Cruyff Legacy in creating opportunities for children and youngsters to play, connect and grow through sport.
Julen Cruyff said: “It is always special for me and my family to attend the opening of a new Cruyff Court. Seeing the first Cruyff Court in Edinburgh and seventh in Scotland become a reality is something we are very proud of. Cruyff Court Figgate Park creates a safe and accessible space where children and youngsters can play together, develop themselves and connect through sport. It is wonderful to see my grandfather’s vision continue to grow internationally and positively impact communities like Portobello.”
An opening day full of sport
The opening day was dedicated to sport and community connection. Pupils from St. John’s RC Primary School were the first to step onto the pitch. They took part in a football session to mark the start of the day. This was followed by a walking football session, offering an inclusive way for more participants to stay active.
The Hibernian Community Foundation is engaged with the project and will use it to deliver activities for the local community. Samantha Windram, a Cruyff Coach and also working for the Hibernian Community Foundation, is one of those involved in the project: “It is vital for the local community to have a safe, multi-purpose space where children can play sports, connect with one another and enjoy spending time together. I would also love to explore the possibility of organising a Heroes Course with local secondary school students in the future, helping to bring the community even closer together.”
The City of Edinburgh Council Culture and Communities Convener, Margaret Graham, highlighted the importance of the new Cruyff Court for the local neighbourhood and wider community: “Providing opportunities for people to take part in sport and physical activity is vital to improving health and wellbeing and building stronger, more connected communities. The new Cruyff Court is a fantastic addition for Edinburgh, creating a free and accessible space where children can come together, get active and enjoy sport close to home. I hope it inspires the local community to get involved, try something new and make the most of this brilliant resource.”
Seventh Cruyff Court in Scotland
With the opening of Cruyff Court Figgate Park, there are now seven Cruyff Courts in Scotland, including six Community Courts and one Special Cruyff Court.
The opening of Cruyff Court Figgate Park reflects the growth of the Cruyff Foundation’s presence in the United Kingdom. Since Johan Cruyff opened the first court in the United Kingdom in 2008, Cruyff Court Dennis Bergkamp in Highbury, London, the foundation has opened over 40 (Special) Cruyff Courts and built a strong, nationwide network of over 50 Cruyff Foundation Coaches, thanks to the dedication of local partners and supporters.
“You can’t do it alone, you have to do it together“ - Johan Cruyff
The new Cruyff Court was made possible through a successful collaboration between the Edinburgh and Lothian Greenspace Trust, Edinburgh City Council, the Scottish Football Partnership and the Cruyff Foundation, with support from players of the Postcode Lottery. Their contribution helps to create more opportunities for children and youngsters to play sports and stay active.
Edinburgh is also the home town of our main sponsor, the Postcode Lottery. Laura Chow, Head of Charities at the Postcode Lottery, said: “It’s brilliant that Postcode Lottery players are supporting the opening of Cruyff Court Figgate Park, creating a fantastic new space for children and young people in Edinburgh to come together through sport. Community facilities like this encourage teamwork, confidence and active lifestyles, and I’m delighted that funding raised by Postcode Lottery players is helping the Cruyff Foundation reach even more young people across Britain.”
All projects are made possible thanks to funds raised by players of the Postcode Lottery. Players have raised over £4m to support the work of the Cruyff Foundation across Great Britain.
Photos: George Monaghan