Football Club Opens Fields for Free Youth Access to Prevent Vandalism

Voetbalclub Excelsior Nieuwkerken is taking an innovative step to engage with local youth by opening two of its natural grass fields for unrestricted public access. This decision comes as a proactive measure to curb damage to the club's fencing, which young people have been climbing over, under, and through to access the grounds.

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Children climbed over, under and between the fence to gain access to the fields. We understand that they want to play and they should have that opportunity. But we prefer that it is without damage or destruction to the property of the city of Sint-Niklaas.

The club, recently established, currently has ample space on its natural grass pitches as they are not in full use. By making these fields available, Excelsior Nieuwkerken aims to provide a designated and safe area for youngsters to play football without resorting to damaging property. The main field and the two artificial turf fields will remain off-limits to ensure the integrity of the primary playing surfaces.

This initiative is a collaboration with the city of Sint-Niklaas. City services will manage the regular emptying of trash bins on the premises, and local neighborhood officers and police will conduct increased patrols. The arrangement is initially set to last until September, with the possibility of a permanent solution if the program proves successful and respectful.

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Because we have only just been founded and do not have as many members as before, we do not need the 2 natural grass fields. Then we can better open them up and ensure that the young people can simply enter without breaking fences.

Club co-chairman Joost Deconinck emphasized the club's desire to build a positive relationship with the Nieuwkerken and Sint-Niklaas communities. He stated that opening the fields is a logical step, especially given the size of the complex, and that they are happy to provide this amenity for the youth. The club also allows local youth organizations, like KSA, to use the grounds for activities such as flag-waving.

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We really intend to write a positive story together with the people of Nieuwkerken and Sint-Niklaas.