News

The first ever UK Cruyff Foundation pitch has been installed in Elthorne Park, Islington with the construction completed by Blakedown Sport & Play.

This particular pitch was partially funded by the ex Arsenal player Dennis Bergkamp, through the Cruyff Foundation, with Islington Council putting the remainder funds needed into the project.

The Cruyff Foundation was setup in 1997 by the international footballer Johan Cruyff. The Foundation was formed to open up new sporting opportunities for disabled and less fortunate young people. To date the Foundation has helped set up over 80 Cruyff Court pitches for young people to use, they are easily recognised as each has the Cruyff Foundation logo incorporated into the centre circle of the pitch.

The pitch at Elthorne Park was originally an old multi use games area, but has been renovated using an Edel Grass synthetic carpet using a Tencate yarn. The surface was completed with the Cruyff logo and line markings for 6-a-side and 5-a-side football.

Adjoining the refurbished pitch was an old hard court area which Blakedown Sport & Play resurfaced, also, with a coloured acrylic finish and line markings specifically for basketball use. Basketball goals and nets were installed to complete the court.

The whole project was finished off with new fencing, an upgraded floodlight system and security cameras to help prevent vandalism and other anti-social behaviour taking place.

The Cruyff Court Dennis Bergkamp had a special opening ceremony on Thursday 23rd October, which was attended by members of Blakedown staff along with Johan Cruyff, Dennis Bergkamp and current Arsenal player Robin Van Persie. The event attracted substantial media coverage from the likes of the BBC and Sky Sport News; this media interest will help to increase awareness of the important work done by the Cruyff Foundation.