Milestones achieved as Cruyff Court Neale Cooper is unveiled before annual fundraiser smashes previous records

Aberdeen’s second Cruyff Court, named after Dons legend Neale Cooper, was officially opened last Friday.

Built in partnership with the Cruyff Foundation and Aberdeen City Council, the brand new sports court has replaced a decrepit artificial surface next to Tullos Primary School on Girdleness Road in Torry.

The event attracted a large audience and a host of well-known, smiling faces, a fitting testament to the legacy of Cooper.

Graham Hunter compered the opening with members of the Gothenburg Greats, ex-Barcelona, Tottenham and Aberdeen player Steve Archibald and, of course, footballing legend Denis Law among those to attend.

The Cruyff Court’s official opening was marked with a penalty scored by Neale’s son, Alex, against legendary goalkeeper Jim Leighton.

Speaking on behalf of the Cooper family who were also in attendance, Alex said: “We are proud to see dad’s memory being honoured in this way and to be part of the opening celebrations.

“Football was a huge part of his life from a young age and provided so many wonderful opportunities - we know Cruyff Court Neale Cooper will provide the next generation with the same chance to play and thrive.

“It’s a great facility and the emphasis on fun and enjoyment is something dad would wholeheartedly endorse.”

Later in the night the Trust hosted their annual fundraising dinner at The Marcliffe hotel in Pitfodels.

In what was a momentous occassion, the charity raised around £50,000 which is a record amount since the annual event began.

The evening included a Q&A with ex-Scotland captains Willie Miller, Alex McLeish, Jim Leighton and Darren Fletcher with Graham Hunter voicing the questions.

There was a comedy set from Des Clarke as well as consistent laughs from MC Alex Fleming which came in between introductions, grace and thanks from the trustee’s plus brilliant food and both a silent and live auction.

On behalf of everyone at the Denis Law Legacy Trust, thank you very much to all who attended either (or both!) of the events on Friday.

They were both a huge success due to those of you who continuously and generously support the charity and its programmes, all of which is very much appreciated.