The Hague Introduces Innovative Water-Managed Multi-Sport Fields

On April 17, 2025, the city of The Hague will unveil its state-of-the-art multi-sport fields designed for soccer and hockey. These fields come equipped with an innovative cooling system and water management features that promise improved play conditions for athletes and better community usage. This initiative reflects a significant investment in sustainable sports infrastructure, highlighting the city’s commitment to environmental and social advancement.

The project will see collaboration among notable local stakeholders, including the football club De Ster and the recently established Hockeyclub Den Haag, along with the Sport Garden Moerwijk. This collaborative spirit aims to address local residents' needs through community sports activities, thereby fostering a sense of unity and active lifestyle among the populace.

Civil engineer Klaas Wapstra, who oversees sports infrastructures for the city, emphasizes the importance of sustainability in athletic facilities. The multi-sport fields will provide not just a venue for sports but also a dynamic solution to longstanding urban water issues. These new fields will store approximately 1,200 to 1,400 cubic meters of water, significantly reducing problems caused by waterlogging and stagnant drainage.

Historically, the pitch had struggled with excessive water during heavy rains while becoming uncomfortably warm during the summer months. The innovative system replaces traditional methods with a network of carefully arranged crates beneath the surface. These crates are topped with a unique foam layer that retains moisture. As water evaporates, it cools the surface temperature, maintaining a comfortable environment even during peak summer heat.

This project not only represents a significant step forward in sports facility design but also serves educational and recreational purposes, as it offers local residents a space for various activities tailored to their interests. By coordinating sports initiatives that meet these needs, the city aims to cultivate a community-driven approach that promotes health and wellness.

The official opening ceremony, scheduled for the morning of April 17, will take place at Sportpark De Ster, where Alderman for Sport, Education, and Youth Hilbert Bredemeijer will welcome attendees. The event is open to press, starting from 8:30 AM until 10:30 AM. The presence of media reflects the project's significance and the city's intention to highlight sustainable innovations in urban infrastructure.

With the opening of these multi-sport fields, The Hague sets a precedent for similar initiatives worldwide. The combination of ecological responsibility with community engagement establishes a new model that other cities may replicate, emphasizing how sports facilities can be integrated within their environments creatively and functionally.

This pioneering venture reinforces The Hague's drive towards sustainability and community integration, making it not just a facility for play but a cornerstone for future developments in urban planning and environmental management. With continuous efforts from local organizations and government, the hope is to inspire a broader movement towards greener, more sustainable community resources. The project can be seen as a clear message: that innovation in sport can go hand in hand with environmental stewardship.

As the city prepares for this significant event, all eyes will be on The Hague as it steps onto a new stage of sports and environmental innovation.