Brand new Cruyff Court launch at Brentford Towers

Brentford FC Community Sports Trust, alongside Hounslow Council and the Johann Cruyff Foundation, launch the new Cruyff Court at Brentford Towers

Last Saturday, Brentford FC Community Sports Trust opened the new Cruyff Court located at Brentford Towers in Green Dragon Estate, in partnership with Hounslow Council and the Johann Cruyff Foundation. Situated between Brentford FC’s old ground Griffin Park and the new Community Stadium at Lionel Rd, Green Dragon Estate has been a key location for our community work for many years. Throughout the year, free football and multi-sports sessions take place at the iconic sports pit via our Hounslow Council funded Street Sports programme.

The Cruyff Foundation was established over 20 years ago by Johann Cruyff, a former Barcelona, Ajax and Netherlands winger with over 500 career appearances and 3 Ballon d’Or trophies. Founded to give children the space to participate in sports and be active, the foundation has developed over 200 Cruyff Courts worldwide. The facility is a fantastic resource for residents, children, and families, which supports the Trust’s promise to contribute to the development of future sports facilities.  

Simon Wood Cruyff Foundation project manager in the UK said: “When we started this journey with Hounslow Council and Brentford Community Sports Trust, we were excited mainly because of the enthusiasm of both partners. The expertise that the Trust brings around community delivery and community partnerships are significant, so watch this space as in the next year, or so more courts could be coming”. 

The launch featured a football festival for over 60 children and young people, face painting, food and drink, a local steel band and a talent competition with the winner receiving a Brentford FC shirt signed by all the players. Marcus Gayle, former Brentford FC player and club ambassador, was present on the day and said: “It is hard to believe the new court was built within such a tight space. The quality is there to see, and it will be a safe space for young players to enjoy themselves, have fun and create special bonds”.

Donald Kerr, vice Chairman of Brentford FC Community Sports Trust, said: 

“You read a lot about getting more young people active and the issues surrounding a lack of opportunities, so when you lay on a facility like this, how can they not be active. We’re not asking kids to travel anywhere, it’s right on their doorstep, and it’s first-class!” 

Marcella Phelan, Brentford FC Community Sports Trust Trustee, said: 

“The quality of the facility is fantastic, and you can see today all of the young people are having a brilliant time and hopefully, they will continue to come back and have more fantastic experiences.” 

Find out where your closest free Community Engagement session is here: https://www.brentfordfccst.com/community-engagement-sessions/