Ever wondered where East Jutland’s largest sports complex resides? Right here at Vejlby/Risskov Centret. This isn’t just a sports center. It’s a hub of activity and history. Vejlby/Risskov Centret stands proudly in the Vejlby-Risskov district of northern Aarhus.
The story of Vejlby/Risskov Centret began with a need. Idrætsklubben Skovbakken founded Idrætshøjskolen Aarhus in 1968. This created a demand for facilities. The population boom in northern Aarhus amplified this need. Skovbakken’s existing facilities were straining. Riisvangen Stadion and Annexhallen couldn’t handle the pressure.
In 1969, construction was underway. The architectural firm Friis & Moltke designed the complex. Rolf Haugstrup, the project director, envisioned a space for everyone. It wasn’t just for athletes but also for local residents. The Vejlby-Risskov Centret needed additional funding. They still needed 200.000 kr.
Otto Fjordside became director of the new Vejlby-Risskov hall. He foresaw the need for a second hall to ease pressure. The grand opening happened on September 13, 1969. Idrætshøjskolen welcomed its first students in October 1970.
Vejlby/Risskov Centret is a large sports complex. It covers 1.5 km2. That is 150 hectares. It features Vejlby Stadium. It is the home of VSK Aarhus. Vejlby-Risskov Hallen is also here. It is home to the Bakken Bears. The center also houses Idrætshøjskolen Aarhus.
The Vejlby/Risskov Centret has a modernist design. The buildings are low and made of red brick. Friis & Moltke designed them. They include four indoor sports halls. Vejlby-Risskov Hallen is one of them. There is also an indoor swimming pool. Administrative offices are also housed here.
The Vejlby/Risskov Centret is home to various sports teams. VSK Aarhus calls it home. Parent clubs like IK Skovbakken and Vejlby IK are also here. The Bakken Bears play here too. SK Aarhus, the former handball team, once played here.
Vejlby Stadium has a capacity of 5,000. The complex boasts 10 football pitches. There are also several outdoor tennis courts. The Vejlby/Risskov Centret includes a center for gymnastics.
Vejlby-Risskov Hallen includes four halls. Hall 1 is the largest. It accommodates 1,152 spectators. Basketball club Bakken Bears plays their home games here. Various departments of Idrætsklubben Skovbakken also use the halls.
The halls have hosted many concerts. Jimi Hendrix and The Who played here. The Rolling Stones, Kiss, Pink Floyd, Deep Purple, and Rainbow have all graced this venue.
Today, Vejlby/Risskov Centret remains a vital part of Aarhus. It provides facilities for sports and education. It also offers spaces for community events. It’s more than just a sports complex. It is a vibrant center for all. It is a place where sports history and community spirit meet.