Feyenoord and Aston Villa have worked closely together on a social level in recent days. In the lead-up to Thursday’s Europa League match, several staff members from the English club visited Rotterdam to participate in a number of activities and projects. Former player Ron Vlaar, who played for both clubs, also joined in.
Focus on mental health
The exchange began with a visit to a Zuidblinkers lesson, where the theme of mental health was central. Students asked questions about the impact of social media on their well-being and received practical tips from the Aston Villa delegation on how to deal with it in a healthy way.
The topic fits seamlessly with the UEFA Take Care campaign, in which mental health is one of six pillars. The Take Care programme is an initiative that uses the power of football to encourage healthier lifestyles and positive habits. It provides clubs, associations, schools and other partners with concrete tools to promote health and well-being.
Innovation in the Dream Space
Afterwards, the English delegation visited the Dream Space, where children created a step counter and were introduced to 21st-century skills. Aston Villa recognised many similarities with a similar project the club runs in England.
Sporting finale at ’t Landje
The exchange was celebrated at Cruyff Court ’t Landje, where more than 150 children took part in a sports day full of activities. They made healthy drinks, joined a football training session and enjoyed the various sporting components.
Former player Ron Vlaar joined in to play football with the children. Vlaar beamed afterwards: “I saw a lot of smiling faces today. It’s great that I could also play a role in that. I think it’s important that the clubs that play against each other work together, because in my view it primarily creates connection.”
With this exchange, Feyenoord together with Aston Villa underline the importance of mental health and a healthy lifestyle, themes that continue to be highlighted through the Take Care programme.
