ABERDEEN’S fourth Cruyff Court has been officially opened in the Tillydrone area of the city.
The latest Cruyff Court, which was built by local firm Hunter Construction, has been named after legendary Aberdeen Football Club captain, Willie Miller, who led the club to its 1983 European Cup Winners’ Cup victory over Real Madrid.
Cruyff Courts are artificial pitches designed to give children a safe and free-of-charge place to play sports. The pitches are the work of the Johan Cruyff Foundation, which was founded by the football legend himself.
The new facility means that Aberdeen is only one of two UK cities, alongside London, to have three or more Cruyff Courts – with their presence in the city coming thanks to the Johan Cruyff Foundation’s ongoing partnership with the Denis Law Legacy Trust.
The lord provost of Aberdeen, Dr David Cameron, was joined by Willie Miller in opening the facility, as well as representatives of the Denis Law Legacy Trust and Johan Cruyff Foundation, and members of the Tillydrone and Woodside Community Councils.
The lord provost said, “This is a fantastic addition to not only the local community but Aberdeen and will be popular with all ages.
“I am delighted that the new court is named after Aberdeen FC’s most successful captain, who led the team during their most successful period, and I hope that everyone who uses this facility can take inspiration from Willie’s fantastic achievements.”
Willie Miller added, “I am truly honoured to have my name associated with this new facility that will offer young people a safe space to engage in sport for years to come.
“Spaces like the Cruyff Courts are vital in reducing anti-social behaviour and encouraging young people to keep active and so, I am confident the community will wholeheartedly embrace this fantastic facility.”
David Suttie, trustee at the Denis Law Legacy Trust, commented, “Denis Law Legacy Trust is delighted that Aberdeen’s third Cruyff Court is now open and operational in Tillydrone. It doesn’t get any more special than being named in honour of the legendary, Willie Miller. We are grateful to our partners, Aberdeen City Council and The Johan Cruyff Foundation and, together, we are all helping to make a big difference in the city of Aberdeen.”
Niels Meijer, director of the Cruyff Foundation, said, “With Cruyff Court Willie Miller, space is created for the children of Tillydrone. Space to sport and play. Space to grow. Space to make friends. Space to be active and improve physical and mental health. Nowadays, this is more important than ever. We’re happy to add a new Cruyff Court, carrying the name of the legend Willie Miller and are thankful for the players of People’s Postcode Lottery who support courts like this.”
