Sport and Play / Sport en spel
A Global Partnership to Unite Communities Everywhere
Magical Bridge Foundation and the Johan Cruyff Foundation have launched a groundbreaking partnership to bring a new model of inclusive, multigenerational play and professional programs to communities around the world. This collaboration will unite Magical Bridge’s innovative playgrounds with the Foundation’s iconic Cruyff Courts, creating vibrant, co-located destinations
designed for people of all ages and abilities.
“At the Cruyff Foundation, we believe sport and play should be accessible to every child. Partnering with Magical Bridge allows us to extend that vision beyond the court—ensuring that entire families and communities can participate,
connect, and thrive together.”
— Niels Meijer, CEO, Cruyff Foundation
Our Partnership
The Cruyff Foundation has built close to 350 Cruyff Courts worldwide, creating safe, high-quality spaces where young people can play, build confidence, and develop essential life skills through sport. By implementing the model of educating coaches and social programs, like the Heroes of the Cruyff Courts program, local youngsters become role models and the community becomes more alive and empowered.
Cruyff Courts and Magical Bridge
In this new community hub, children will be inspired on the courts, and then families of all ages and abilities will enjoy playing at the adjacent Magical Bridge playground. The integrated design encourages longer visits, deeper social connections, and stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities.
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The first European project under this partnership will be developed for Lelystad, in The Netherlands, marking a significant milestone in expanding intergenerational and truly inclusive play across Europe. Construction is expected to begin this year at Tjalk 13.
“This partnership shows what’s possible when sport and inclusive play come together in a way
that truly serves all ages and ability groups. By designing spaces that serve both active play on the court and meaningful, multigenerational
experiences in the playground, we’re creating places where everyone feels valued and
included.”
— Olenka Villarreal, CEO and Founder,
Magical Bridge Foundation
