In spring 2025, the Marit Bouwmeester Academy will open its doors for the first time in The Hague’s Laakkwartier district.
This was announced by Marit Bouwmeester and alderman Hilbert Bredemeijer at the Watersport Gala recently.
This unique Academy is an initiative of Marit Bouwmeester, the most successful Olympic sailing star ever, with the aim of making water sports accessible to everyone. The Academy established in close cooperation with the Municipality of The Hague, the Watersportverbond and the National Fund for Sport.
At the new Marit Bouwmeester Academy, located in the heart of The Hague, children can learn about water sports through schools and after-school clubs and try out fun water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, canoeing or supping. To experience the fun of water sports and possibly actively pursue a water sport at a club or sailing school.
Making children enthusiastic about water sports
With its location in the Laakkwartier area, the Academy aims to enthuse children and young people who do not naturally have access to water sports to help them discover their potential. ‘My dream has always been to share my experiences and help others realise their own dreams. The Marit Bouwmeester Academy is the perfect place for that,’ said Bouwmeester, who herself also lives and trains in The Hague.
Besides the substantive programme developed by Marit and the Watersportverbond, the Academy offers space for educational programmes and cooperation projects with schools, sports associations and local communities with the aim of having a positive impact on the city and society. During the 2023 Sailing World Cup, many water sports activities were already organised for young people. With the Academy, this offer will be made structural.
Sports alderman Hilbert Bredemeijer of The Hague: ‘I am extremely proud that the Marit Bouwmeester Academy is coming to The Hague, the top sports city by the sea. In 2023, we already showed during the World Sailing Championships how sailing lives here in the city, also among young people. Marit Bouwmeester is a great Olympian and Hague sports icon. The arrival of Marit’s Academy fits well with our ambition to get children from The Hague involved in sports and encourage them to participate in water sports.’
Festive opening in spring 2025
The launch of the Marit Bouwmeester Academy was officially announced at the prestigious Watersporter of the Year Gala, held at the iconic Scheepvaartmuseum in Amsterdam.
The official opening of the Marit Bouwmeester Academy will take place in spring 2025. During the opening day, visitors will be taken through the Academy’s vision and be introduced to its multifaceted offering. Marit Bouwmeester herself will be present to share her personal story and ambitions.
Image: Marit Bouwmeester and councillor Hilbert Bredemeijer at announcement Marit Bouwmeester Academy.