Pier15 brings limitless moves

In a short time Pier15 has become an indispensable place in Breda. The skate park is located in the raw Havenkwartier of Breda and is a paradise for every skateboarder in the area, but the place also attracts countless visitors from all over the world. Every year skateboarders from all over the world come to Pier15. A valuable place for Breda's skate culture. But this place stands for so much more. We talk to Jeroen van Eggermond (creator) and Rinse Staal (operational manager) of Pier15.

“When I used to go to Breda, there was no place for skateboarding”, says Jeroen. “I built my own skatepark in my parents’ greenhouse.” His real dream? Owning a skate park in Breda. But he needed a lot of patience for that: it took seven years before Pier15 opened in 2014. “Me and my partner Martijn Gulden were determined that this was going to succeed. I badly wanted to give Breda such a place”, explains Jeroen. “Everyone within the skateboard culture in Breda did its bit until Pier15 became the place it is today.” With his other business, Nine Yards Skateparks, Jeroen realised many international skateparks and two places to skate in Breda: De Scharen and Haagse Beemden.

Cultural hotspot

The team ensured that Pier15 became the skate spot for Breda. The skatepark in the enormous hall of Pier15 is mainly street oriented. Long quarter pipes with various street obstacles and rails in between. In addition to the indoor skate hall, you will also find a sun-drenched outdoor terrace with catering facilities, a basketball court, and skate ‘bowl’. At Pier15 skate lessons are given to young and old, and competitions and important championships are organised regularly. It is also a cultural hotspot where beginning bands are given the opportunity to perform and break through, and where cultural exhibitions, festivals and parties are held. “We have noticed that the current generation of youngsters want to experience sport and leisure in a different way. So, no more exercising in the gym, soaking up culture in a museum and visiting friends in a café, but rather having everything in one place. That mix strikes a chord here”, explains Rinse.

“ We created a place where people find each other and come together ”

More than just a skatepark

“I like the fact that we have created a place where people come together, says Jeroen. “Skating works very connectively. Pier15 is therefore a place where lifelong friendships are made and where young people may even meet their first love. A place where people feel safe, inspired, and challenged. A breeding ground.” Rinse adds: “you see generations growing up here. They start with skate lessons, and at 19 they organise an art exhibition here because they have become an artist.”

A second home

“Pier15 is a place where people enjoy themselves and where they can be themselves.” Explains Jeroen. “Where they are allowed to make mistakes. I am proud that we made this place in Breda. It’s nice to be able to give something like this to a city.” The future for Pier15 is still uncertain; the contract is expiring, and they are busy searching for another place for this cultural hotspot. “We have created a unique project. The combination of culture, sport, and leisure is perfect. We hope that we can remain in the city. For a lot of people Pier15 is a second home.”

Pier15
Veilingkade 12
4812 HC Breda

Instagram: @pier15skatepark
Pier15.nl