Opening court: Groningen
In collaboration with municipalities and local partners, 3X3 Unites is building new basketball courts across the Netherlands. Every court has a story to tell: about a place where young people can play, meet each other and become part of a community. This time, Egor Fomin talks about the opening of the new 3x3 courts at Nijensteinheerd in Groningen.
What prompted the construction of the new 3x3 courts?
“Beijum is the neighbourhood where we held our very first 3X3 Leader Course in Groningen. It also marked the start of 3X3 Unites in Groningen. Devario van Daal was the first 3X3 Leader to be trained. He is still active with 3X3 Unites and still lives in Beijum. That is why it is extra special that the first dedicated 3x3 court is now located in Beijum. It brings everything full circle
.“Previously, there was no basketball court at the location where the new 3x3 court has opened. Whenever we wanted to play basketball or organise activities, we did so at the Krajicek Playground in Ypemaheerd. It was a combined football and basketball court, with metal football goals underneath the basketball hoops.
“We had many discussions with the municipality about the new court at Nijensteinheerd, and we are very happy with the result. The aim is for it to become a place where young people can come together, play basketball and take part in plenty of activities.”
What has improved with the new courts?
“Well, until recently, there was no 3x3 court here at all. But the location is beautiful. The new 3x3 court is next to a small football pitch and an outdoor fitness area. That is really cool. It has become a place where young people can meet up and play sports together.
“The new 3x3 court looks fantastic. The surface is really good, and the lines are clearly visible. It is a proper 3x3 court with the correct dimensions, and the height of the basket can even be adjusted. This means everyone can play here, from experienced basketball players to the youngest children.”
What role did 3X3 Unites play in the development of the new courts?
“We have been involved in the project from the very beginning. Ata represented us in a dual role: as a coordinator for Pijler Gezond and Stem 12+. He also involved the 3X3 Leaders Devario and Damien to make sure young people's voices were heard. Devario put together a full presentation about the value of the court and what it would mean for young people.
“As 3X3 Unites, we also contributed ideas to the design of the court, from the basketball hoops and the dimensions of the playing area to the court markings and other technical details.”
Which partners and organisations contributed to the development of the new court?
“I have to compliment the municipality of Groningen on the excellent cooperation. Communication was very smooth, and we really worked together throughout the project. But the municipality was certainly not the only partner involved. We worked on this together with WIJ Team, the Krajicek Foundation, Groningen Beweegt and Overstag. In addition, our long-standing partner Nijha, a supplier of sports equipment, provided the basketball hoop.
“By working well together, we make sure we strengthen one another rather than get in each other's way. After all, we are doing this for young people. It is no coincidence that the motto of 3X3 Unites is ‘Win together’.”
What was the official opening of the new courts like?
“It was a really fun event. The public sports area, which includes the 3x3 court, a football pitch and an outdoor fitness area, is officially called Bacuna Playground. It is named after brothers Leandro and Juninho Bacuna, who are both from Beijum and went on to become professional footballers. Juninho attended the opening with family members and officially opened the court together with Jalt de Haan, the alderman responsible for sport.
“Juninho also gave a short speech about the importance of sport and physical activity, especially in public spaces. He encouraged parents to send their children outside and to keep motivating them in a positive way to pursue their talents and dreams. More than a hundred children attended, along with many parents and local residents.
“There was plenty to do after the official opening, from a football tournament to a basketball game and a shooting contest. Naturally, some of our own 3X3 Leaders were there to help with the activities. There was also music and a great food truck.”
What do the new courts mean for the 3x3 community in Groningen?
“The brand-new court allows us to continue the growth and impact we are making with 3X3 Unites in Groningen. It is also a reward for all our 3X3 Leaders in Groningen. Thanks to their efforts, we have been able to build a large 3x3 community in Groningen, and this court has become a reality. This court is their legacy.
“The court is a wonderful place where young people can meet and play basketball. It can also be used by members of 3x3 Groningen, the first 3x3 basketball club in the Netherlands.”
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