On Wednesday, October 26, record international Jan Vertonghen traveled to Sportpark Montaignehof in Lanaken to open the playground that his foundation and the municipality of Lanaken built together. Many young athletes were present to meet one of their idols.
The playground offers opportunities for football, handball, basketball, and hockey. It even features an interactive ball wall with 16 panels that light up and make sounds when hit. With the push of a button, you can easily select a game. The field is equipped with 4 small goals, 2 handball goals, and 2 basketball hoops. The surface is made of artificial grass, and the playground is accessible to wheelchair users.
Astrid Puts, Alderman of Youth, said: “With the playground, the Finnish track, the BMX course, and the skate park, we have created a place where young people can play sports for free. Our goal is to keep everyone active in a fun way, and it’s working. Having Jan Vertonghen personally come to Lanaken for this opening is something extra special for the youth.”
Encouraging outdoor play
By opening playgrounds in collaboration with cities and municipalities, the Jan Vertonghen Foundation aims to encourage children to play sports, play, and exercise outdoors more often. These playgrounds are designed to match the current interests of young people, inviting action and interaction during play. Interactivity is combined with physical activity.
Jan Vertonghen stated: “With the Foundation, I want to help build a world where children are empowered to reach their full potential. A space where kids can play and engage in sports together, regardless of age, gender, physical, or mental limitations. A place where every child can feel special. I am very happy that we teamed up with the municipality of Lanaken to open this playground for the children of Lanaken.”
In addition to Lanaken, interactive playgrounds can also be found in Temse, Niel, Berlare, Assenede, at the Queen Mathilde Mother and Child Center of the University Hospital Antwerp, and at the CHC Montlégia hospital in Liège.
Location in Lanaken: Sportpark Montaignehof, Montaignehof 1, 3620 Lanaken
