Kampenhout football clubs take measures after persistent vandalism: 'Fireworks set off on the field'

Football clubs Berg-Op and Sporting Kampenhout in Kampenhout, Belgium, are taking firm measures to combat ongoing vandalism that is damaging their facilities. Berg-Op has resorted to installing surveillance cameras after discovering significant damage to its artificial turf, including burn marks approximately 10 to 15 centimeters in size.

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We saw burn marks of about 10 to 15 centimeters on the artificial turf.

Club officials suspect that the damage was caused by fireworks being set off on the field at night. This suspicion is based on a neighbor's report of hearing loud noises during the night. The vandalism extends beyond property damage, as the club also notes that individuals frequently use the fields outside of official hours, leaving behind litter and showing a general lack of respect for the facilities.

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Through the testimony of a neighbor who heard a lot of noise at night, we think fireworks were set off.

In response to similar incidents, Sporting Kampenhout has decided to close its fields entirely when they are not in use for official club activities. The club has warned that anyone found on the premises without permission risks being considered a trespasser. Berg-Op, unable to close its fields due to multiple access points, is relying on the newly installed cameras to deter future vandalism and plans to forward any footage to the police. Both clubs are appealing for increased police patrols in the area to help curb the persistent problem.

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The vandals also often play outside of hours and then leave waste on the grounds. Respect is hard to find.