Last Thursday, April 4, the exhibition 'Top Players' was launched at the Toy Museum Mechelen. Eight well-known Belgian athletes share stories about their sports careers through colorful and interactive presentations in this expo. From April through August 30, visitors to the Toy Museum can see how these athletes have developed and how they serve as role models for young people. Niek de Meester, Director of the Toy Museum: “We have built a bridge between play and sport, thereby inspiring young people to engage in more sports and physical activity.”
Experience and interaction
According to Niek De Meester and co-organizer Tom van Aken, a research associate at the Sportimonium, toys, playing games, and sports are related. “For example, there is a clear link to adhering to the rules of the game, teamwork, and social behavior. Moreover, many sports influence brain function,” states Tom. Niek adds that, regarding visitors, the expo is primarily aimed at families, households, and school classes. “It is about the experience and interaction, with less emphasis placed on virtual matters.” Niek De Meester summarizes: “Regarding play and games, we explain: the what? the how? who? and why? We do this on five levels: the motor, socio-emotional, creative, moral, and cognitive (strategic) aspects. There are 25 different moments in the exhibition to test the experience and challenge yourself.” Upon entry, visitors receive a personal wristband on which their 'skills' are recorded.
Schools and groups
The 'Top Players' exhibition highlights the careers of sports figures such as boxer Victor Schelstraete, fencer Jolien Corteyn, tennis player Dominique Monami, alpine skier Jasper Balcaen, sprinter Cédric Van Branteghem, and footballers Piet den Boer, Tess Elst, and Maarten Vangramberen. A special tour, 'Test your Team in Top Players,' has been developed for schools and groups to stimulate team spirit. Visitors are challenged to push their own limits through interactive challenges.
The Toy Museum Mechelen has existed since 1982 and boasts a varied collection, from the Middle Ages to the present day. Dolls, trains, board games, and construction toys are on display. Furthermore, educational workshops are held. In 2024, it moved to a new location in the renovated Mechelen station. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visitors to the museum also have access to the 'Top Players' exhibition.
More information: www.speelgoedmuseum.be