The sports program for the 2026-2027 academic year has changed.
During a festive gathering on Thursday, administrators from the University of Groningen, the Hanze University of Applied Sciences, and the ACLO gave the go-ahead for the construction of the new Sports Centre on the Zernike Campus. The driving of the foundation piles commenced before the summer. In the coming period, construction company Hegeman and installer BAM Integrale Projecten Noord will start building upwards on this project.
The festivities began with a colorful procession of all ACLO student sports associations towards the construction site. With association flags, hockey sticks, rackets, balls, and other sports equipment, they created a festive and inspiring atmosphere that embodies the student sports culture in Groningen.
The parade of the student sports associations (photo: Diederik Winchester)
Isa Houtsma, chair of the ACLO, speaks proudly about the significance of the upcoming Sports Centre: 'It is fantastic that we have now truly started realizing the new Sports Centre. A place where everyone feels at home and where sport, relaxation, and connection take center stage. This will be a huge step forward for our 20.000 athletes and 47 student sports associations.'
Niels van den Bovenkamp, Director of the Sports Centre, is also pleased with this step: 'After years of preparation, during which we have collaborated intensively, we stand at the start of construction today: a wonderful milestone. This is the moment when all our preparations will become reality. We look forward to the opening in 2028, where we want to give everyone a warm welcome to our new sports centre.'
The new Sports Centre, with a gross floor area of approximately 12.500 m², was designed by AGS Architects. It offers a wide range of modern sports facilities and focuses on sustainability, inclusivity, and an optimal user experience. Special attention was paid to acoustics, air circulation, and the indoor climate in the design to ensure that athletes and visitors feel comfortable. "In our new sports facilities, we will soon offer a high-quality and varied range of sports," says Van den Bovenkamp proudly. "Whether you are a budding sports enthusiast or a talented athlete: here you will find the space to develop yourself and fully experience your passion for sport."
Bjorn Wiggers, John Ottens, Niels van den Bovenkamp, Petra Smeets, Hans Biemans and Isa Houtsma opened the start of construction (photo: Diederik Winchester)
Petra Smeets, member of the Executive Board of Hanze, and Hans Biemans, Vice President of the University of Groningen, both emphasize the importance of the new sports centre. 'With this new Sports Centre, we are investing together in a healthy, vital, and resilient campus,' says Petra Smeets. 'Sport contributes to both our physical and mental health and brings people together. At the same time, the Sports Centre will become an inspiring learning environment for our ALO students, among others. Here, they develop the knowledge and skills to get others moving as well, and thus contribute to society.'
Hans Biemans also emphasizes the importance of the new Sports Centre for the university's well-being strategy. 'Sport stimulates not only physical activity, but also mental resilience, social connection, and personal growth. This is achieved both through participating in sports oneself and through involvement in boards, committees, or informal activities. In this way, we contribute to a healthy balance between study, work, and leisure time, which is essential for the well-being of our community.'
The construction site where the foundations are being laid for the new sports center (photo: Diederik Winchester)
The 653 foundation piles have now been driven into the ground. In the coming period, Hegeman and BAM Integrale Projecten Noord will continue with the visible construction work. The construction is expected to take two years, with a planned completion in 2028.
Book all your group lessons and reserve your sports fields now via our ACLO subscription. You can also purchase your ACLO Card for the upcoming academic year here!
