Stevenson, one of UI’s newest schools, and Lee Elementary’s Work to Play teams celebrated the opening of the latest Cruyff Court with members of the Johan Cruyff Foundation and IMC Financial Markets. This celebration was packed with games, food, and FUN in Rainey Park.
As coaches, parents, and players gathered together at the park on their day off from school, the teams received special jerseys that were generously donated by IMC to commemorate this event. Lee and Stevenson did their amazing warm up routines in the park before heading on to the new field for penalty kicks with Chicago Red Stars players Arin Gilliland, Sofia Huerta, Danny Colaprico, Sam Johnson and their mascot, Supernova. Everyone was treated to the delicious spread of healthy foods before ceremony commenced.
Players from Stevenson helped assist with the cutting of the ribbon and then the games began! The kids had a blast- the event featuring activities like: Numbers game with Coach Varma, Relay Races with Coach Jeff, Partner Passing with Coach Becca, and 7 v. 7 games with Coach Eugene on the new field. The players also were excited to play with Chicago Fire player, Johan Kappelhof, at the 7 v. 7 station.
Urban Initiatives would like to thank Niels Meijer Director Johan Cruyff Foundation, Ilja van Holstein, Osi Lilian IMC Chief Financial Officer,Lisa Wiersma IMC, Klaas van der Tempel Dutch Consul General, and the Chicago Park District for making this day possible!