John Noakes Foundation

We provide a place where refugees do not have to feel like refugees — even if only for a while.

In 2022, the war in Ukraine began, and the lives of millions of people changed forever. Since then, thousands of Ukrainian men, women and children have fled violence, loss and uncertainty. They arrived in the Netherlands with little more than a suitcase.

Every Sunday, Ukrainian refugees come together on the tennis court

During the tennis lessons organised by the John Noakes Foundation, we aim to give them a sense of calm, companionship, safety and belonging.

The lessons are more than just a sporting activity. More than a few hours of exercise.

They provide:

A moment to relax

For a while, they do not have to think about loved ones who may still be in Ukraine. Instead, they can find relief and release through physical movement.

Being together

Feelings of loss fade into the background. The focus shifts to hitting the tennis ball, sharing laughter, and spending time with others who understand what they have been through.

Human connection

For a few hours, they are simply people again — not defined by the word “refugee”. These lessons support mental wellbeing during a time of uncertainty and fear.

Your donation makes it possible

We offer these tennis lessons free of charge. Not because they have no value — but because the people taking part have had to leave everything behind and simply do not have the financial means to pay for sport or leisure activities.

However, without financial support, these lessons cannot continue. Without your help, we cannot cover the cost of court hire and equipment.