Today, on International Women's Day, we opened a Cruyff Court named after Veerle Buurman. Former PSV player, now playing for Chelsea and part of the Dutch national team.
In 2025, she won the Johan Cruyff Talent of the Year Award and earned the opportunity to select a location. Her choice was Eindhoven, the city where her journey began. Together with local youngsters and Aldermen Remco van Dooren, responsible for Sport for the Municipality of Eindhoven, she officially opened it.
“It's very special to have a Cruyff Court that carries my name and to be able to open it myself today. As a child, my love for football also started outside, on small pitches where you could play for hours with friends. Those are the places where you have fun, develop yourself and learn to believe in your own talent. I hope this Cruyff Court becomes a place where many children and girls come together to play sport, make new friends and chase their dreams.” said Veerle Buurman at the opening.
Multifunctional Cruyff Court
The Cruyff Court in Woensel is part of a multifunctional sports and meeting area in the neigbourhood. Right next tot he football pitch, there are 3x3 and 5x5 basketbaal courts, allowing youngsters to pratice different sports in one central location. In addition, there is a green strip with herbs and fruit trees where residents are free to pick their own prodces.
The Cruyff Court is located in an neighbourhood that falls under the National Programme for liveability and safety. That means that extra and long-term investment are being made to improve liveability, safety and opportunites for residents. The court contributes by providing a socially safe space where children and young people can play sport, develop themselves and meet others.
"This Cruyff Court is an important meeting place for Woensel West. Young and old alike can come here to enjoy sports. It teaches you how to work together, experience what it's like to win or lose, and make new friends. With the activities organised here by community sports coaches and youth workers, we are reaching even more people. That's how we keep Eindhoven moving.’ - Alderman for Sport, Eindhoven."
Activation at the Cruyff Court
During the opening, several activities were organised for children and youngsters from the neigbourhood. These were organised by jeugdgroep van Oranje (JVO). It is an organisation of young people who are committed to supporting other youngsters in their community. Today, they were also responsible for organising the opening.
Veerle Buurman officially opened the Cruyff Court by taking the ceremonial first kick. The Cruyff Court was not only actively used today. JVO uses the court on a daily basis. Every week they bring young people together to play sports and get active. A Heroes programma will also start here soon.
Sustainable pitch
The renovation of Cruyff Court Veerle Buurman has been completed using Pure Play by TenCate Grass, a sustainable type of artificial turf without rubber granules. The surface wears less quickle, lasts longer and is easier to recycle. Unlike natural grass, it also provides children with a safe an high-quality surface to play sport on all year round.
Photographs were taken today by Evelien Emonds.