Special Heroes

PART OF THE CRUYFF FOUNDATION

As of 1 August 2026, Special Heroes is part of the Cruyff Foundation. The Cruyff Foundation will continue the programmes and activities focused on sport, physical activity and participation. The project leaders will also remain involved, ensuring their knowledge, experience and regional networks are retained.

By bringing the strengths of Special Heroes and the Cruyff Foundation together, we can give even more children and youngsters with special needs the opportunity to play sports, participate and develop.

SPORT AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR EVERY STUDENT

Special Heroes supports students in special education in discovering and taking part in sports and physical activities. The approach is tailored to each student’s abilities, interests and support needs and is aimed at children and youngsters aged 4 to 18. The methodology is a recognised intervention, specially developed for children and youngsters with special needs, helping them build healthy habits at their own pace.

FROM TRYING OUT TO REGULAR ACTIVITY

Through the Special Heroes sports and physical activity programme, students are introduced to different sports and activities during school hours. This takes place during PE lessons, so as little as possible changes for the students. By offering activities in their familiar school environment, students can easily discover what they enjoy and where their talents lie. Afterwards, they can take part in activities at school, with a local partner or at a sports provider in the area.

The programme includes:

• Theory and practical lessons on the importance of physical activity
• Sports and activity clinics (2–3 blocks of 3 weeks)
• Sports activities during breaks and after school

The activities are tailored to the needs of the students and the opportunities available in the region, in consultation with the school.

KEEPING ACTIVE

The aim is for students to continue playing sports and being active outside school on a regular basis. Together with local sports coaches, Uniek Sporten and/or other local organisations, students are guided towards suitable sports activities and a sports provider that fits them. This creates a lasting connection between the student, the school and local sports opportunities.

PARTICIPATION

Special Heroes also offers programmes in which students use sport to develop skills that are important for school, work and taking part in society. Within these programmes, students help prepare, organise and lead sports activities. They practise working together, communicating, taking responsibility and supporting others.

SUPPORT FOR SCHOOLS

Schools receive support from a project leader who works with the school to identify what students need and which activities best match those needs. Together, the school and project leader decide which elements are most suitable for the students and the local situation.

The project leader supports with:

• Developing an annual plan
• Organising lessons and clinics
• Involving local sports providers
• Developing after-school activities
• Connecting students with suitable sports opportunities
• Building and maintaining a local network

DIGITAL WORKSPACE

Our online Workspace contains all the materials you need to support Special Heroes lessons, including interactive whiteboard modules, lesson cards and worksheets.

MORE INFORMATION

Would you like to know more about what Special Heroes can offer your school? Get in touch with one of our project leaders.

For any other questions, please email gehandicaptensport@cruyff-foundation.org.